Traffic In Cambodia

Chaotic scene

You cannot visit Cambodia without talking about the traffic, an experience like none other in the world, especially in the cities. It is fascinating to watch and be a part of. Scooters or mopeds are the main modes of transportation, carry from one to 5 people, driving in all directions, or so it seems. It appears that no one stops unless they have to, rather, you squeeze into the smallest available space that can fit a scooter. Cars and trucks will literally stop traffic to go across intersections or even across the road to get to the other side. It is like a motor ballet or a school of fish, coming and going flowing in and out of every direction, narrowly missing each other, absolute chaos without anger and rage.  Acceptance of the ebb and flow. The smaller vehicles yielding to the bigger vehicles.

Are there official traffic rules and laws? We were told that cops work until 5pm and issue tickets for two infringements, ie, broken rearview mirrors and having your headlights on in the day time.

School kids being transported

It's not unusual to see 3 to 5 people on a scooter.

No car seat or kids and babies on a scooter.

Women in dresses, skirts, or hired, ride side saddle.

Kids are either in the middle of adults or up front standing.

TukTuk rules the city streets. They are everywhere. Some can take up to six passengers. It is a great way to see the city, night or day.

Modpeders don't wait, not even on red lights sometimes. If there is an opening, they take it.

Everyone drives and ride scooters. Children as young as 10, girls, boys, women and men, young and old.