A dispute between a mainland Chinese tourist and a ride-hail driver in Hong Kong has sparked online debate after a video of the incident circulated on social media. The driver accused the tourist of scratching his vehicle with her luggage while loading it into the trunk and demanded compensation. The tourist refused to pay and insisted on involving the police.
Mainland Chinese Tourist Accused of Scratching Ride-Hail Vehicle
The incident occurred when the tourist used a ride-hailing service to travel to the Shun Tak Centre in Sheung Wan. According to reports, the driver initially did not assist with the luggage. The tourist then placed her suitcase in the trunk herself, at which point the driver inspected the vehicle and claimed it had been scratched. He stated the car was new and valued at over HK$500,000, requesting HK$500 for repairs.
The tourist rejected the demand, stating there was no damage. After some discussion, the driver lowered the amount to HK$300 and asked, “Are you not going to pay?” The tourist remained firm, stating she would let the police determine responsibility. The driver’s demeanor reportedly softened when he heard the word “police,” and he urged the tourist to continue her journey.
Tourist Insists on Police Involvement, Driver Allegedly Insults Her
Once in the vehicle, the driver continued to berate the tourist, even accusing her of intentionally scratching the car, saying, “Who would hit someone’s car with a suitcase?” The tourist repeatedly stated she wanted to involve the police, offering to pay whatever amount they determined was appropriate. The driver dismissed this, claiming the police wouldn’t deal with such a small matter and demanding at least HK$3,000. He also threatened to post the conversation online.
Upon arrival at her destination, the driver continued to verbally abuse the tourist as she left with her luggage, criticizing her character.
Netizens Condemn Driver’s Behavior, Reveal Past Incident
The video quickly spread across social media platforms, prompting widespread discussion. Many netizens questioned the driver’s behavior, deeming his tactics unusual. Some mocked his initial aggressive stance, noting his immediate change in attitude upon mention of the police. One comment stated, “As soon as he heard the police, he backed down. The driver’s refusal to involve the police wasn’t about the amount of compensation, but fear of his illegal ride-hailing being discovered.”
Some netizens questioned the logic of the compensation amount, suggesting that if the vehicle was genuinely scratched, the repair cost would be higher than HK$300. Others speculated the driver was attempting to take advantage of the tourist’s unfamiliarity with the area and impending departure. Netizens also pointed out the driver’s vehicle is a Chinese-made Ji Krill car, valued at approximately 300,000 to 380,000 yuan, not the 500,000+ yuan claimed.
Online users also uncovered a video allegedly from February showing the same driver involved in another dispute. The footage, taken from a dashcam, shows the driver driving slowly near Kowloon Tong, One ITC. After being honked at by another driver, he stopped the car and confronted the other driver, and then argued with a taxi driver who asked him to move his vehicle. This behavior was described by netizens as a “road bomb.”
In the month prior to the incident, netizens allegedly encountered the same driver and had a dispute with him. (Online photo)
The driver parked his car in the middle of the road, and a taxi driver argued with him. (Online photo)
Police have consistently emphasized the importance of using legal public transportation. They warn that vehicles used for illegal ride-hailing may not have valid third-party insurance, leaving passengers and other road users unprotected in the event of an accident.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened between the tourist and the driver?
The driver accused the tourist of scratching his vehicle with her luggage and initially demanded HK$500 in compensation, later lowering it to HK$300. The tourist refused to pay and requested police involvement.
What did netizens discover about the driver?
Netizens discovered a video allegedly showing the same driver involved in another road dispute in February, where he blocked traffic and argued with other drivers.
What are the legal implications of illegal ride-hailing in Hong Kong?
Vehicles used for illegal ride-hailing may not have valid insurance, and drivers can face fines of HK$10,000 and up to six months imprisonment for a first offense, or HK$25,000 and up to twelve months imprisonment for repeat offenses. Their vehicle license may also be suspended.
What role do you think clear communication and adherence to established transportation regulations play in preventing similar incidents?
