Observers highlight a culture of rushing and lack of courtesy as root causes of poor driving habits on Singapore’s roads.
SINGAPORE: Recent high-profile traffic accidents have reignited discussions about driving etiquette in Singapore, with many pointing to habits such as reckless lane-cutting, queue-jumping, and a general lack of road courtesy. These behaviors, observers argue, reflect a deeper societal culture of “always rushing.”
Singapore Road Safety Council Chairman Bernard Tay noted that this hurried mindset isn’t confined to roads, saying: “Even in malls and supermarkets, people with trolleys will jump your queue or cut your lane. It’s the same on the roads.”
Speeding and Its Consequences
Speeding remains a key issue, with over 115,000 cases recorded last year. Fatalities from speeding-related accidents surged by 83%, with observers citing poor time management and peer pressure as common triggers. “Our roads are filled with people in a rush, often blaming traffic for their delays,” said Julian Kho, editor of SGCarmart.
Additionally, the rise of electric vehicles (EVs) has introduced new challenges. With significantly faster acceleration compared to conventional cars, EVs demand extra vigilance from drivers to avoid accidents.
Fatal Accidents and Reckless Behavior
The number of fatal traffic accidents increased by 26% in 2023, reaching 131 cases. Reckless lane-cutting, particularly in front of heavy vehicles, poses significant risks. “Heavy vehicles take longer to stop. Cutting lanes recklessly can be life-threatening,” Tay emphasized.
To address these concerns, traffic calming measures like speed bumps and visual reminders are being implemented in high-risk areas. A newly formed task force aims to enhance driver awareness through banners and standees at accident-prone zones.
Driving Culture Needs a Shift
Singapore’s stringent traffic laws are comparable to those in other developed nations, but enforcement alone is insufficient. “Driving brings out the worst in people,” said Kho. Both Tay and Kho stressed the need for mindset changes, suggesting refresher courses on road safety and etiquette for offenders.
Drawing from international examples, Tay highlighted the importance of infrastructure designed to enforce careful driving, as seen in countries like Japan and South Korea. “Creating infrastructure to force cautious behavior can gradually shape a safer driving culture,” he said.
The Way Forward
Ultimately, improving road safety is a shared responsibility. “Think about it—how much time are you really losing by being considerate?” Tay asked. Kho added, “Driving comes with a lot of responsibility. Hopefully, with more awareness and education, we can foster a more courteous driving culture.”
As Singapore continues to tackle these challenges, the call remains clear: safer roads begin with individual accountability and collective effort.
