Clip Of Chow Yun Fat Seemingly Using His Phone In Car While Waiting For Traffic Light Sparks Debate

Most people would be guilty of checking their phones in the car while waiting for the traffic light. Is Chow Yun-fat one of them too?

Recently, a clip of the 71-year-old Hong Kong film legend made its rounds online.

In the video, Fat Gor was seen in the driver's seat of a stationary black vehicle, seemingly waiting for the traffic light.

Netizens, however, noticed the actor holding onto something that looked like a phone, and visibly squinting while looking at it.

At one point, Fat Gor also appeared to swipe across the device.

Many were quick to assume he was using his phone, sparking debate over whether his behaviour posed a safety issue.

"He's using his phone while driving. [I'm going to] report him!" wrote one netizen.

Another questioned: "Is it illegal to use your phone while driving in Hong Kong?"

In response, a netizen replied: "If the car is stopped while waiting for traffic, it doesn't count [as illegal]."

Under Hong Kong's Road Traffic (Traffic Control) Regulations, drivers cannot hold a mobile phone or its accessories in their hand, or between their head and shoulder, while the vehicle is in motion. Violating this carries a maximum fine of HK$2000 (S$322).

However, as Fat Gor's car appeared to be stationary, it is unclear from the footage alone whether his actions would constitute an offence.

Hong Kong's Transport Department, regardless, advises drivers to avoid using mobile devices while driving, as they can be a distraction and affect road safety.