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Safe Riding Last updated 16 Aug 2003 Back to D'Singapore Scene
The Straits Times Interactive Dec 22nd, 1999 Three-pronged approach in road-safety efforts MS SITI Mariam Saad suggested ways to make riding in Singapore a safer experience in her letter "Let's make roads safer for bikers" (ST, Dec 11). The Traffic Police adopt a three-pronged approach in our road-safety efforts. (1) Effective enforcement and tough laws send a strong message to motorists to observe road safety. (2) The presence of patrols, speed cameras and the meting out of stiff penalties to offenders caught speeding play a critical role in ensuring that motorists observe the speed limits. (3) Road-safety education constitutes the third strategy in achieving our goal. Through the organisation of campaigns, exhibitions and talks, we are able to raise awareness and reach out to the various categories of road users. The extension of the Driver Improvement Points System (Dips) to include foreign driving-licence holders further contributes to a safer riding and driving environment for all. In Singapore, where land supply for roads is limited, we need to allocate the use of our road space efficiently. Currently, we allow scheduled buses the exclusive use of bus lanes during peak hours because buses are an efficient form of people mover. We have explored the idea of dedicated lanes for motorcycles and find it impractical to implement. Members of the public can play their part in making our roads safe by reporting errant motorists on the roads. However, the person who makes the report must be prepared to go to court as a prosecution witness if the motorist claims trial. We would like to thank the writer for the suggestions. CHENG LEE CHING JOHN CHANG
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