Image credits - CNA
Singapore has reported an increase in traffic accidents and fatalities in the first half of 2024, according to the latest mid-year traffic report released by the police on Saturday (Aug 24). While there was a decrease in the overall number of accidents, the severity of the incidents has worsened, with more deaths attributed to speeding and drink driving.
The police noted a significant rise in speeding violations, which surged by 44.3 percent compared to the same period in 2023. This increase is partly due to enhanced enforcement measures, including the activation of speed detection functions in red-light cameras from April. Despite a reduction in red-light violations and related accidents, the number of speeding-related fatalities nearly doubled, climbing from 13 to 25.
Drink driving accidents also saw a 9.1 percent increase, with 96 incidents reported in the first half of 2024, compared to 88 in the previous year. Of these, nine resulted in deaths. Interestingly, the number of arrests for drink driving fell slightly, indicating a potential shift in enforcement effectiveness or public behavior.
Elderly pedestrians and motorcyclists remain a major concern. Although accidents involving elderly pedestrians decreased by 22.1 percent, this group still accounted for 42.9 percent of pedestrian fatalities, with a significant portion due to jaywalking. Motorcyclists saw a slight increase in accident involvement, rising by 3.3 percent, and continue to represent over half of all traffic accidents and fatalities.
To combat these troubling trends, the police are considering stricter penalties and increased fines for traffic violations. Enhanced education efforts targeting elderly pedestrians and motorcyclists will also be a priority, alongside family and community involvement in promoting road safety.
As Singapore addresses these challenges, authorities emphasize the need for continued vigilance and adherence to traffic laws to reduce accidents and save lives.