🚦

Traffic Rules and Road Safety

Key traffic regulations and road safety measures in Singapore, including strict enforcement and penalties for violations.

Sections

1. General Overview of Traffic Rules in Singapore

Singapore has a well-regulated and efficient road system. The government enforces strict traffic laws to maintain order and safety. The key principles include adherence to speed limits, proper use of road lanes, and respect for pedestrians and other road users.

Driving Orientation

  • Singapore follows left-hand driving, meaning vehicles drive on the left side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the right side of the car.

Key Traffic Rules

  • Speed Limits:
    • Expressways: 80–90 km/h (varies by expressway).
    • Urban roads: 50 km/h unless otherwise stated.
    • School zones and residential areas: 40 km/h during specific hours.
  • Seat Belts: Mandatory for all passengers, including those in the back seat.
  • Mobile Phone Use: It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving unless it is hands-free.
  • Drink Driving: The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. Penalties for drink driving are severe.
  • Traffic Lights: Always stop at red lights. Amber lights mean "prepare to stop," not "speed up."
  • Pedestrian Crossings: Drivers must give way to pedestrians at zebra crossings and signalized crossings.

2. Road Safety Regulations

Singapore places a strong emphasis on road safety for both drivers and pedestrians. The following are key safety measures:

For Drivers

  • Defensive Driving: Always anticipate the actions of other road users.
  • Lane Discipline: Stay in your lane and use indicators when changing lanes.
  • Motorcycle Safety: Motorcyclists must wear helmets, and pillion riders must do the same.
  • Child Safety: Children under 1.35 meters in height must use an appropriate child restraint system or booster seat.

For Pedestrians

  • Use designated pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings, overhead bridges, or underpasses).
  • Do not jaywalk (crossing roads outside of designated areas is illegal and dangerous).
  • Follow pedestrian traffic lights and wait for the green man signal before crossing.

3. Fines, Penalties, and Fees

Singapore has a zero-tolerance policy for traffic violations, and penalties are strictly enforced. Below are some common offenses and their associated fines or penalties:

Common Traffic Offenses

| Offense | Fine (SGD) | Demerit Points | Additional Penalties | |----------------------------------|------------|----------------|-----------------------| | Speeding (up to 20 km/h over) | $150–$200 | 4 | - | | Speeding (more than 20 km/h) | $200–$500 | 6–18 | Possible suspension | | Running a red light | $200 | 12 | - | | Using a mobile phone while driving | $1,000 | 12 | Possible imprisonment | | Drink driving (first offense) | $2,000–$10,000 | - | License suspension, imprisonment | | Not wearing a seatbelt | $120 | 3 | - | | Jaywalking | $50–$1,000 | - | Possible imprisonment |

Demerit Points System

  • Singapore uses a Demerit Points System to monitor driver behavior. Accumulating 24 demerit points within 24 months can result in a suspension of your driving license.

Parking Violations

  • Illegal parking fines range from $50 to $300, depending on the severity and location of the offense.

4. Licensing and Vehicle Ownership

Driving License

  • Visitors can drive in Singapore using a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) or a foreign license in English. If the license is not in English, an official translation is required.
  • Immigrants or long-term residents must convert their foreign driving license to a Singapore Driving License within 12 months of arrival. This involves passing the Basic Theory Test (BTT).

Vehicle Ownership

Owning a car in Singapore is expensive due to the government’s efforts to control traffic congestion. Key costs include:

  • Certificate of Entitlement (COE): A permit to own a car, costing tens of thousands of dollars.
  • Road Tax: Based on the engine capacity of the vehicle.
  • Electronic Road Pricing (ERP): A toll system that charges vehicles for using certain roads during peak hours.

5. Public Transport and Alternatives

Given the high costs of car ownership, most residents and visitors rely on Singapore’s excellent public transport system:

  • Mass Rapid Transit (MRT): A fast and efficient train network.
  • Buses: Extensive coverage across the island.
  • Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Services like Grab and Gojek are widely available.

6. Country-Specific Considerations

Electronic Road Pricing (ERP)

  • Singapore uses an ERP system to manage traffic congestion. Charges are automatically deducted from an in-vehicle unit (IU) linked to a stored-value card. Visitors driving rental cars should ensure the IU is properly set up.

Cycling and Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs)

  • Cyclists must use designated cycling paths or shared paths. Cycling on expressways is prohibited.
  • PMDs (e.g., e-scooters) are allowed only on cycling paths and must adhere to speed limits (25 km/h on cycling paths, 10 km/h on footpaths).

Weather Conditions

  • Singapore’s tropical climate means frequent rain. Roads can become slippery, so drivers should exercise caution during wet weather.

Cultural Norms

  • Honking is generally discouraged unless absolutely necessary.
  • Road rage is rare, and aggressive driving is frowned upon.

7. Emergency Procedures

In case of an accident:

  1. Stop the Vehicle: Do not leave the scene.
  2. Exchange Information: Share your name, contact details, and insurance information with the other party.
  3. Call Emergency Services: Dial 999 for police or 995 for an ambulance if there are injuries.
  4. Report the Accident: Notify your insurance company and, if necessary, file a police report.

8. Resources for Visitors and Immigrants

By adhering to these rules and guidelines, you can ensure a safe and pleasant experience on Singapore’s roads. Whether you’re driving, cycling, or walking, always prioritize safety and respect for others.