What is the penalty for not wearing a life jacket when traveling by boat?
Mr. NVT, residing in Thuan Trung commune, asked: I see many people not wearing life jackets when traveling by boat, which is very dangerous if an accident occurs. May I ask, what is the penalty for not wearing a life jacket?
Reply:
According to Clause 3, Article 34, Decree No. 139/2021/ND-CP of the Government, regulating administrative sanctions for violations in the field of inland waterway traffic, passengers participating in traffic by watercraft, including boats and ferries, if not wearing life jackets or not carrying personal life-saving buoyancy devices, may be fined from 1 million VND to 2 million VND.
This regulation applies to non-motorized vehicles with a gross tonnage of up to 15 tons or a capacity of up to 12 people; motorized vehicles with a total main engine capacity of up to 15 horsepower or a capacity of up to 12 people; and passenger vehicles across rivers such as boats and ferries.
In addition, Decree 139/2021 also clearly stipulates the responsibilities of vehicle operators as well as transport units in ensuring passenger safety. Specifically, operators of water vehicles with a capacity of up to 12 people who do not instruct passengers on how to use life-saving equipment, including life jackets, will be fined from 1 to 2 million VND.
In case a business unit transporting passengers by train on a fixed route does not equip or does not have a board with instructions on how to use life-saving equipment and tools for passengers, the violating individual will be fined from 5 to 10 million VND, and the violating organization will be fined from 10 to 20 million VND.
From the regulations, it can be seen that wearing a life jacket or carrying personal life-saving equipment when traveling by boat or ferry is not only a responsibility to protect one's own life but also a mandatory requirement according to the law. Passengers need to raise their awareness of compliance, while boat owners, vehicle drivers and transport businesses also need to strictly implement measures to ensure safety on inland waterways to prevent unfortunate accidents that may occur.