Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
posite—avoid eye contact and go ahead regardless. Few will use their indicators, as
doing this can actually make it more difficult to turn or merge. Despite this apparent
arrogance, however, there is relatively little road rage because pretty much everyone
expects everyone else to do the wrong thing and is never shocked when they do.
Cars are prohibited from driving in bus or bicycle lanes.
Anything going slower than a maximum of 70 kilometers per hour (43
mph)—such as pedestrians, scooters, or bicycles)—is prohibited from using the ex-
pressways.
Cars must give way to pedestrians crossing at zebra crossings or traffic light
crossings—but definitely assume they won't and look both ways before you put a
foot on the road.
When an accident occurs, if possible, exchange license plate numbers, driver's li-
cense numbers, and insurance details. If anything is awry, such as no license plate,
someone being injured, or the plate being not from Beijing, call 122 (traffic acci-
dents) or 999 (private ambulance) and wait for the officer to arrive.
If you plan to drive to another city or province, especially Shanghai, but your car
is registered in Beijing, check ahead for what restrictions might apply to you in that
area.
As a motorist, if you hit a pedestrian or nonmotorized vehicle, you're automatic-
ally at fault—although if they were clearly violating some kind of law applicable to
them your punishment may be reduced.
Car insurance is compulsory.
If you're caught driving at 50 percent higher than the speed limit, you'll lose your
license.
If you're involved in an accident, the Beijing British Embassy's website recom-
mends the following: Do stop the vehicle immediately—don't move it until reques-
ted to do so by the Public Security Bureau (PSB). If there are casualties, do call the
PSB (122 or 110) and ambulance services (120 or 999). Do remain at the scene of
the accident until the PSB arrives. Don't answer any questions put to you by the PSB
about the accident, other than those confirming your identity, etc., other than in the
presence of a legal representative. Don't speak to any casualties or bystanders about
the circumstances of the accident.
