Hong Kong police are investigating a severe traffic collision after a taxi allegedly ran a red light on Lei Tung Estate Road in Aberdeen, striking a 13-year-old schoolgirl Tuesday morning. Dashcam footage circulating online appears to corroborate the rapid sequence of events, showing the vehicle proceeding through the intersection moments after the pedestrian signal turned green, injuring the conscious young pedestrian who was subsequently transported to Queen Mary Hospital for treatment for a left arm injury.
Details of the Traffic Incident
The incident occurred around 7:57 a.m. near the pedestrian crossing outside Lai Ping House at Lei Tung Estate, a busy time as students commute to school. Initial reports and video evidence suggest the collision was a high-visibility breach of traffic laws.
One video, filmed by a motorcyclist traveling behind the taxi, allegedly captures the cab continuing its uphill journey even as the traffic light signal indicated a definite stop. The footage ends shortly after a driver in an opposing lane reportedly stopped, exited their vehicle, and confronted the taxi driver concerning the alleged traffic violation.
A second, more graphic video clip directly focuses on the crosswalk. It clearly shows the pedestrian light displaying green as two schoolgirls begin to cross the road. The leading student, identified as 13 years old, is then struck by the passing taxi and thrown to the ground before the recording cuts off. Authorities confirmed they received the initial report of the accident at 8:01 a.m.
The 73-year-old taxi driver, identified by the surname Liu, was reportedly uninjured in the collision.
Driver Accountability and Pedestrian Safety Concerns
This incident casts a spotlight on persistent concerns regarding the professionalism and accountability of public transport drivers, particularly in dense urban environments like Hong Kong. For pedestrians, especially students using predictable routes to school, these crossings represent supposed zones of safety built around established traffic signals.
The apparent failure to obey a red light signals a grave lapse in judgment and adherence to the law. Traffic safety experts routinely emphasize that running red lights is a leading cause of severe urban accidents, disproportionately affecting vulnerable road users such as pedestrians and cyclists.
Investigation Underway
Police have confirmed that an active investigation is underway to determine the precise sequence of events and cause of the collision. The evidence provided by the dashcams will be crucial in establishing whether the taxi driver committed a prosecutable traffic offense.
Under Hong Kong traffic law, drivers convicted of serious offenses, including dangerous driving causing bodily harm or persistent disregard for traffic signals, face stringent penalties, including substantial fines, demerit points, and potential license suspension.
Actionable Takeaways for Commuters
While authorities pursue justice in this case, commuters and guardians are urged to practice heightened vigilance at crosswalks:
- Look Both Ways: Even when the pedestrian signal is green, observe approaching traffic to ensure vehicles are stopping.
- Avoid Distraction: Refrain from using mobile devices until crossing is completed.
- Report Dangerous Driving: Utilize the official channels to report taxi drivers or other motorists exhibiting reckless behavior immediately.
The investigation continues to assess all factors contributing to the dangerous encounter on Lei Tung Estate Road, underscoring the urgent need for strict enforcement of traffic laws to protect public safety.