Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of National Development, Desmond Lee stated that the Ministry is conducting a review of penalties under the Road Traffic Act in order to take a tougher stance against irresponsible motorists.
This is his response to a question filed by Mr Seah Kian Peng, MP for Marine Parade GRC, who asked the Minister for Home Affairs in respect of motorists driving against the flow of traffic, whether the maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment and a fine for causing death by a rash act should be reviewed.
Mr Desmond also said that the review will also consider the adequacy of the penalties for driving dangerously against the flow of traffic.
This review was announced on 1st December last year and the Ministry of Home Affairs will make an announcement when the review is complete.
This question was asked in light of the recent accident which involved a Mercedes driver who went against traffic along AYE towards Tuas near Customs on 19 December, which claimed one life and left one rider severely injured and three other with mild injuries.
According to the current law, the penalty that can be imposed by the Land Transportation Authority (LTA) for driving against the flow of traffic in Singapore may include:
- Four demerit points and a fine of S$130 for obstructing traffic, and
- Six demerit points and a fine of S$150 for driving against the flow.
In response to Mr Desmond reply, two other MPs asked him whether the transport ministry would re-assess the design of road signs and junctions in relation to the topic.
Second Minister for Transport Ng Chee Meng answered the questions by saying that the LTA takes reference from international standards in the design and installation of road signs and markings.
He said that in addition, LTA engages independent, specialist road safety engineers to review the clarity and effectiveness of road signs and markings for new roads, and to undertake regular safety audits of existing roads.
“Drivers should be extra careful and slow down if they are not familiar with the roads,” he said.
