Written Reply to Parliamentary Questions on Update On Conversion of Discretionary Turn Signals at Heavy Traffic and High Footfall Junctions

Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Transport with the increase in fatalities caused by red-light running and speeding in 2023 as compared to 2022 

a.     what is the update on the conversion of discretionary turn signals to Red Amber Green arrows, especially in traffic junctions or areas where there is a high footfall of elderly, children and vulnerable pedestrians around schools, markets and shopping belts; and 

b.     whether the Ministry will consider introducing the installation of speed limiting or warning device in vehicles in the future.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has been prioritising the implementation of Red-Amber-Green (RAG) arrows at junctions in the vicinity of School and Silver Zones, as well as at locations where there is a history of accidents, and where the junctions are wider and have a higher posted speed. 

2.     Since the programme started in 2018, LTA has implemented RAG arrows at close to 1,200 junctions. LTA has observed about a 40% reduction in accidents involving rights turns after RAG arrows are installed. To complement RAG arrows at these junctions, other traffic enhancement measures such as additional road markings, integrated pedestrian countdown timers and signages may be introduced too. 

3.     Today, speed warning devices are required for all goods vehicles with a maximum laden weight (MLW) not exceeding 3,500kg. Speed limiters are required for all goods vehicles with MLW exceeding 12,000kg and public service vehicle exceeding 10,000kg. To further improve road safety, the Traffic Police (TP) will expand the speed limiter regime to lorries with MLW between 3,501kg and 12,000kg (inclusive). The installation began on 1 January 2024, and will take place in phases until 1 July 2027. 

4.     For all vehicles, including cars and motorcycles, drivers are to comply with the posted speed limits, or risk facing heavy penalties from TP. In addition, TP will be stepping up enforcement to further deter speeding offences. From the second quarter of this year, TP will be activating the speed enforcement function in red-light cameras, especially at locations that are more accident- or speeding-prone. The Singapore Road Safety Council also regularly conducts public education campaigns to promote good road safety habits. 

5.     While agencies will continue to enforce, educate and engage all road users, road safety is ultimately a shared responsibility. Everyone has a part to play to keep the roads safe for all.