Road Etiquette in Singapore: Better Than Before, But Still a Bit Wobbly
Key Stats
- Road deaths fell from 193 in 2010 to 85 in 2020.
- Half a decade of progress helped keep more lives on the sidewalks.
- Police interviews: 500 folks from 10 different road‑user camps.
What the Numbers Tell Us
Thanks to a mix of pandemic effects and the hard‑goading tactics of the Traffic Police (TP), the streets have seen a major drop‑in‑death rate. But the road‑safety story isn’t all sunshine.
According to Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, the seasoned traffic mind who spoke at the Use Your RoadSense Virtual Show 2021, the field has been measuring commuters’ behaviour since 2019. His research went out door‑to‑door, chat‑with‑chat, tapping into the hearts of:
- cyclists and motorcyclists who hop or zoom past each other
- heavy‑vehicle drivers carrying the city’s freight
- elderly pedestrians, the quick‑step juggernauts of the scene
- everyday pedestrians like you and me, strolling to the nearest hawker stall
- car drivers who juggle speed and courtesy
- courier and delivery drivers racing lunch orders
- taxi and private‑hire drivers on Singapore’s tight streets
- power‑assisted bicycle users, the modern bike‑buddies
- parents watching over their tiny chariot kids
Pedestrian Pride (and a Dash of Disgust)
Pedestrians seem to like their own “polite” image, but they cheerfully label other road users as impatient, aggressive, discourteous, or downright entitled—at least when you ask them to. It’s a bit like calling a friend “too dramatic” but still cherishing the friendship.
The “Serious” Side of Things
On the flip side, the research found that vulnerable road users, especially the elderly, sometimes slip into unsafe routines. Jay‑walking where there aren’t crosswalks and, in a starker doctor’s office, a few occasions of drink‑driving have raised alarms. As Professor Ibrahim warns, these “serious cause for concern” incidents remind us that safety is still a moving target.
Bottom Line
Singapore’s roads have gotten friendlier—fewer lives lost—but the journey to a truly safe street is a marathon, not a sprint. Keep an eye on those on the move, respect the rules, and remember: a polite driver or pedestrian saves more than just seats in a traffic jam.
Road Safety Update
What’s the Buzz?
Hey drivers, pedestrians, and cycling champs! The city’s got fresh findings on how everyone’s handling the streets, and it’s actually a bit of a win‑win. Below is a quick rundown of the latest nudges and good vibes that people are showing—no jargon, just straight‑up road‑smartness.
Shortcuts to Safer Trips
- Use the Zebra Crossings. Those striped zones on the road are designed for you to cross safely. Think of them as your official “give me a break” zone.
- Extra Time for Seniors. If you’re on a concession card, call it a “golden ticket” that lets you pause a bit longer at each crossing. It’s about giving the elder crowd a lil’ luxury in the rush.
Good News on the Horizon
- Drivers Slow Down. We’re seeing more drivers pulling up to these crossings and putting a stop sign in their brains. The result? Fewer accidents and calmer streets.
- Cyclists on the Left. Cyclists are increasingly staying on the left side of the road (in places where that’s the rule) and making way for pedestrians. It’s like giving the sidewalk a personal space bubble.
- Overall Positive Trend. More folks are showing up with courtesy, so the send‑it signal is getting brighter!
Takeaway
Adopting these small but mighty habits—using designated crossings, slowing down, and letting the folks walk and cycle by—turns everyday commutes into smoother, safer rides. Next time you hit a zebra crossing, remember: you’re part of a moving wave of good manners.
Driving a Kindier Singapore: Road Safety Meets Pandemic‑Era Compassion
TL;DR: The latest updates tell us that fairest driving habits aren’t just good for the road—they’re good for the soul. Let’s keep the lanes safe and the hearts calm!
What the Authorities Are Saying
“These are encouraging improvements and a reminder to all of us to observe and extend road courtesy,” says a spokesperson from the TP (the Traffic Police, or simply “T-P” for short). The message is simple: every driver, cyclist, busie pedestrian, or toddlers with scooters has a role in keeping Singapore’s streets slick and safe.
During a recent community outreach, the TP reiterated that road safety isn’t a top‑secret operation—it’s a collective effort. “If you’re behind the wheel, you could be the hero that prevents a crash; or you could be the villain that fries it,” the officer quipped.
The Pandemic Power‑Up on Road Behavior
Lessons learned from the pandemic don’t just stay in the living room; they’re spilling onto our highways. “If there is one thing this pandemic has taught us, it is to be kinder and more compassionate to each other,” the officer explained. “I hope we can extend that to our roads too.”
Because after all, a hug or a courtesy “thank‑you” is vastly less expensive than an ambulance ride! “Let’s roll out the self‑control and turn our cars into civic-minded campuses,” they added, forever pushing for a culture of respect and patience on the road.
Beyond Policy: Practical Tips for Safer Driving
- Yield to pedestrians. The sidewalk is not a parking lot.
- Keep your eyes on the road. Distractions are the silent speed bump.
- Don’t leave your seat too locked. It’s a courtesy, not a customs regulation.
- Respect the speed limit. When it’s 50, why act like you’re in a NASCAR race?
- Smiling at a neighbour’s child. Their friendship invitation is usually just a thank‑you for giving them a seat.
Road Updates Nearby
Heads up: Around Tanjong Pagar Road, we’re seeing a wave of new road dividers and safety features. The move came after a fatal Lunar New Year accident, so it’s a welcome upgrade for drivers and commuters alike.
Stay Informed, Stay Safe
The next time you hit the turn‑signal, remember the pandemic taught you to courtesy and compassion—apply that on the road too. A small gesture, a quick smile, or a polite honk can mean the world, or at least keep someone from rushing back in the rearview mirror.
Thank you for reading—drive safe, stay kind, and keep your headlights on illumination!
