Rule of law covers drivers and smokers

Building a nation based on the rule of law is the ambitious goal set by the Fourth Plenum of the 18th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China held last October. It involves reform of the judicial system and other related institutions so they are fairer and just to the whole of society.

Some observers might feel that such an endeavor should start with the country's roads and restaurants, as traffic rules and smoking bans are violated every day on a massive scale.

For example, driving on the busy streets or elevated highways of Shanghai can often be a life-threatening experience, no less thrilling than a Formula One race track. Since many turning vehicles don't yield to pedestrians, people crossing the street have to be constantly on the alert for cars. Also, turning vehicles often don't yield to oncoming cars as traffic rules stipulate, and many drivers demonstrate dangerous cutting-in, putting the lives of themselves and others in danger.