It’s always a good idea to check up on what’s happening worldwide. So when Malaysia implemented a new set of traffic laws last week, I thought it was worth checking out. New traffic laws include rules on mobile phone use while driving and a ban on using handheld mobile phones while crossing road junctions.
If you’re anything like me, you love to travel. Especially if you’re from the US. But the traffic laws are often different. Sometimes it takes a few days for your license to be updated, and sometimes there are delays in processing. I’m goI will give you a quick summary of the new traffic laws in Malaysia. And the tips I found on how to get around them.
With the new traffic laws that took effect last week, you can now be ticketed for not driving on the right side of the road. The law states that any vehicle must have one side painted white or yellow. Drivers have been ticketed if they failed to adhere to the rule, even if they had made the necessary safety changes like turning on their headlights, putting on their seatbelts, and changing lanes.
Changes to the General Traffic Laws
Traffic laws are a little like dating: it’s never starting new without knowing how it will end. There is never a good idea or perfect time to begin a new relationship, so why would you think it’s the right time to start a new traffic law?
I know that you can still do your daily business, but I’m sure you’d agree that there is something a little bit different about Malaysia right now.
Here are the changes to the general traffic laws.
New laws
1. Driving is allowed on Sundays and holidays
2. You can only carry passengers in the back seat of the car
3. The use of GPS and mobile apps is banned
4. It is now illegal to drink and drive
5. You are allowed to drive with only one hand on the wheel
6. You must wear a seat belt
7. You can now only use your phone in the car if you are stopped in traffic
8. You can’t use your phone at night
9. You can’t use your phone in the car if you are driving faster than 50km/hr
10. You are allowed to make calls at red lights
California Driver’s License Suspensions
According to the California Highway Patrol, the new law takes effect on 1 January 2018 and applies to any driver convicted of certain driving offenses. These offenses include drunk, reckless, careless, and speeding.
Drivers convicted of such offenses within the last ten years will have their licenses suspended for 12 months. A driver can be charged with any of these offenses if they commit a crime during the ten years before the day they apply for a new license.
But there is a loophole. If a person was not convicted of such an offense when they applied for a new license, they could still be granted a temporary permit. But they will still be required to pay a $100 fee to register with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).
Driver’s License Suspensions in Other States
The good news is that no law in Malaysia states that you cannot drive with a suspended license. You can still go with a suspended license in many other countries. This means Irving, if you go to the US and your request gets arrested, you can still drive in Malaysia. However, if you are a Malaysian who travels to the US, you may find yourself in trouble.
I just checked on the Department of Motor Vehicles of the US. Their “Driver’s License Suspension Status” list showed that many states suspend licenses. You can see that most states are suspending licenses for two years or three years. Some are suspending permits for six years, seven years, eight years, or ten years. This means that you’re, tyou should always double-check your license when traveling to the US; you don’t want to be caught driving with a suspended license.
How will the new law affect me?
Some new traffic laws in Malaysia have recently been implemented. These are not just for locals but also for international drivers. Drivers are required to have a current Road Safety Inspection Certificate (RSIC). The reason for this is to ensure that vehicles are roadworthy. The new law requires an inspection sticker on your car every year.
However, the process for obtaining this differs for foreigners and Malaysian citizens.
Here is a summary of the new traffic laws in Malaysia:
1. Malaysians must now display an inspection sticker on their car or motorcycle.
2. Foreigners are not required to have a Malaysian inspection sticker.
3. Foreigners must have an inspection sticker on their international driving permits.
4. Foreigners are not required to have a Malaysian inspection sticker on their international driving permit.
5. All cars and motorcycles must have at least one white reflective triangle, and the rear bumper must be covered.
Frequently Asked Questions: Traffic Laws
Q: Do I still have to pay court costs?
A: Court costs will apply as before, but the fine will be higher. You may also have to pay a reinstatement fee.
Q: How do I know if I need to be reinstated?
A: If you don’t need to be reinstated, you should receive a letter from your local Municipal Court. You can check with your local Municipal Court if you need to be reinstated.
Q: Can I appeal a ticket?
A: Appeals are only allowed in a traffic ticket if the fine is $150 or more. If the penalty is less than $150, there is no right to an appeal.
Top Myths About Traffic Laws
1. You need to be in California to be a good driver.
2. There are new rules for texting and driving.
3. Speed limits have gone up.
Conclusion
The roadways of the United States are filled with drivers, cyclists, and motorcyclists, all trying to make their way around the country. Sometimes they run into each other; sometimes, they don’t. In either case, they have to follow the rules of the road. Many different types of laws govern these activities, and they vary from state to state. Here is a quick rundown of the most important ones.
