30th May 2023 – (Hong Kong) A photo of a taxi driver in Hong Kong eating a meal while driving has gone viral on social media, raising concerns about road safety. The photo was shared by a driver on social media, who spotted the taxi driver eating from a takeaway container with both hands off the steering wheel while driving through a busy tunnel.
The photo shows an empty taxi with the driver holding what appears to be a takeaway container of roasted meat and rice, eating while driving. The post on Facebook read, “I know you want to eat while it’s hot, but don’t be so reckless while driving in a tunnel. You might cause an accident.” However, it is unclear from the photo whether the driver was eating pigeon, as some speculated.
The incident has sparked a heated discussion on social media, with some sympathizing with the driver’s busy work schedule and lack of time to eat. Others expressed concern over safety issues, noting that eating while driving may cause accidents. Some commented that finding time to eat during a busy workday is difficult, while others joked that the driver was a skilled multitasker or had an autonomous vehicle.
While it is not uncommon for drivers to eat or drink while behind the wheel, doing so can be dangerous and is illegal in many countries. Distracted driving, including eating while driving, is a leading cause of accidents on the road. The Hong Kong Police Force has reminded drivers to avoid eating or drinking while driving and to stay focused on the road.