Hong Kong taxi driver claims protesters caused him to lose control in HK$8.4m injury lawsuit

A Hong Kong taxi driver is defending himself in High Court against an HK$8.4 million injury lawsuit, claiming protesters' attacks caused him to lose control of his vehicle and hit a pedestrian. Henry Cheng testified that on October 6, 2019, amid fresh protests against a face mask ban, his car was being attacked from both sides by individuals wielding rods and umbrellas.

Cheng stated that protesters managed to open his car door and enter the vehicle, leaving him unable to control it. "I wasn't controlling the car, people had come in," he said, explaining he was protecting his head. He asserted that three protesters were in the front seats and his hands were not on the steering wheel when the collision occurred.

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I wasn’t controlling the car, people had come in.

However, Park Hoi-lam's legal representative, Susanna Leong, challenged Cheng's account. Leong argued that no one was attacking Cheng and that he intentionally turned the wheel and accelerated. She suggested the protesters' actions only began after the collision, and Cheng's intent was to break through roadblocks.

Cheng also reported sustaining injuries to his legs, ribs, and chin, requiring a five-day hospital stay. Two individuals were charged in connection with the assault, with one receiving an increased sentence on appeal. The trial continues.

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When I was getting hit, I used my two hands to protect my head, so I’m very sure I did not touch the wheel.