24.
"We hope with the publicity drive it would help the public to know more about road safety. Everyday, thousands of people are risking their lives by not observing the road safety codes," the spokesman said.
"Last year we had launched an immensely successful publicity drive on drink driving, this year we see a need to direct our messages towards a new target audience, the pedestrian."
However, the spokesman stressed, although pedestrian safety would be the main theme, the Council would still continue its publicity efforts on drink driving.
The Council also announced the enforcement of rear seat belt legislation with effect from June 1.
As from the date onwards, the spokesman said, all rear seat passengers in private cars are required to wear rear seat belt if one is fitted. Failure to comply will result in a maximum fine of $5,000 and three months imprisonment.
"All private cars registered on or after the commencing date of the legislation must be fitted with rear seat belt," the spokesman said.
To publicise the use of rear seat belt, a series of publicity will be mounted on televisions and radios together with posters and leaflets detailing the legislation.
The Council is chaired by the Deputy Commissioner of Police and its membership included the Transport Branch, Transport Department, Information Services, Home Affairs, Education and Highways department, British Forces (Hong Kong), Road Safety Association, Institute of Advanced Motorists, and Hong Kong Automobile Association.
End