KUALA LUMPUR: Do not take more passengers than your vehicle's carrying capacity, said Deputy Federal Territories Minister Datuk Wira Abu Seman Yusop.

He said if the carrying capacity of a vehicle was five, then it was wise to follow that figure and not to overload the car with more passengers, as the vehicle may already be heavy due to luggage and other items placed in the boot.

He added that for a small car it was ideal to have three passengers in the back seat, one at the front excluding the driver, but the number could vary depending on the type of vehicle used.

"Please follow the 'Eight Golden Rules on Road Safety', not forgetting the ninth (not to overload passengers) that was disclosed today,'' he said Tuesday in his speech before launching the Chinese New Year road safety campaign at the Sungai Besi toll plaza near here.

The rules that he was referring to were not to drive when one was tired, drunk or in an emotional state; keep to the speed limit; when changing lanes signal or use indicators and check for traffic via side mirrors and rear view mirror; comply with road regulations at intersections, especially at traffic light junctions; avoid tailgating; observe safety guidelines when overtaking, and never overtake when in doubt; don’t jump queue or abuse emergency lanes; and lastly avoid weaving through traffic.

Abu Seman said it was normal for those heading back to their hometowns to rush back during festive seasons, but advised them not to do so, as it was better to be late than to never arrive.