New S’pore Highway Code Tells You Not To Use Phones While Crossing Or Ride PMDs On Roads

New Highway Code Will Include Fine & Demerit Point For Not Giving Way To Emergency Vehicles

Singapore Police Force (SPF) announced last Friday (15 Nov) new amendments to the existing highway codes. These guidelines will take effect starting 1 Dec.

SPF highlighted 3 new guidelines that all road users should take note of:

• Giving way to emergency vehicles
• Pedestrians’ usage of personal communication devices
• Usage of personal mobility devices (PMDs)

1. $200 fine for not giving way to emergency vehicles

Emergency vehicles like ambulances and police cars are often among the first personnel to arrive at the scene of any accident.

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Motorists are advised to follow the below procedure when they hear the emergency siren or flashing lights from an emergency vehicle:

1. Stay calm and check for traffic
2. Give way to the emergency vehicle
3. Slow down so the emergency vehicle can overtake

That said, road users are warned not to break the law – such as running a red light – just to give way to an emergency vehicle.

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Motorists should also avoid tailgating emergency vehicles. Those who have the habit of following closely behind one of these vehicles to take advantage of others giving way –this advice is for you.

Those who fail to give way to emergency vehicles may receive a fine of up to $200 and be handed 4 demerit points.

2. Do not use devices while crossing roads

Many of us would be guilty of crossing the roads while glued to our electronic devices —  and that is pretty damn dangerous.

No, we’re not pointing our fingers exclusively at you Pokémon Go! players.

Remember this viral video?
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According to SPF’s video, 887 pedestrians were injured and 39 people were killed as a result of road traffic accidents last year.

While it is unlikely that all these cases had to do with the device usage, this phenomenon will only get worse as smartphones become a more integral part of our lives.

Hence, changes to the highway code also include advice for pedestrians not to use their mobile communication devices while crossing roads.

3. PMD & PMA users not allowed on roads

Earlier this month, the government announced that personal mobility devices (PMDs) such as e-scooters will no longer be allowed on footpaths.

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Relating to this, the amended Highway Code will also include a reminder that PMDs, as well as personal mobility aids (PMAs) like motorised wheelchairs, are not allowed on roads.

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Riders are also reminded to adhere to speed limits and stipulated paths and should ride their devices in a “safe and orderly” way.

Hope the Highway Code will make roads in Singapore even safer

We hope that the amended highway code will help to make our roads an even safer place for both pedestrians and motorists.

What other amendments would you like to see made to the Highway Code? Share your thoughts in the comments.

Featured image adapted from Facebook.