In the government’s bid to organize traffic and pedestrian rules for the use and access of roads in the country, new rules and ordinances are being established in order to maximize the use and safe sharing of paths and roads, and also to minimize incidences of accidents.
Gov’t Announces New Rules for Motorists, Cyclists, and Personal Mobility Device Users
Starting last February 1, new rules on path- and road- sharing have been put into effect by the government of Singapore, as shared in a report by Today Online.
Among the new regulations observed are as follows:
- The speed limit for riding bicycles and personal mobility devices (PMDs) on footpaths has been reduced from 15 km/h to 10 km/hr.
- Cyclists are now required to wear helmets whenever riding on the road. However, those who are crossing the road to get to another public path will be exempted by this rule.
- PMD users are now required to stop and look out for incoming vehicles before crossing the road. Motorists are also required to slow down and to look out for pedestrians as well as PMD users at crossings, and enable them to cross the road accordingly.
- There will also be a maximum speed limit of 10 km/hr for personal mobility aids such as motorized wheelchairs and mobility scooters when used on public roads. Retailers must also visibly indicate on the device’s specifications the technical criteria for the devices and where they are allowed to be used.
The rules have been conceptualized since September of last year when the government has accepted the recommendations of the Active Mobility Advisory Panel.
The recommendations intended to address the increase in the incidences of reported accidents involving PMDs, bicycles, and power-assisted bicycles on public paths.
According to the Land Transport Authority (LTA), explained that these rules are part of the ongoing efforts to promote greater rider responsibility and encourage safe sharing of roads and paths.