Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Reviewing Safe Usage and Design of Zebra Crossings Due to Increase in Cyclists and PMD Users

Mr Desmond Choo asked the Minister for Transport 

a.     whether the Ministry has reviewed the safe use and design of zebra crossings with the increasing number of cyclists and personal mobility device users; and 

b.     whether there is a need to redesign or adapt zebra crossings to meet the current and future safety needs of all road users.

Reply by Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat:

1.     The Land Transport Authority (LTA) takes into account the safety of pedestrians and active mobility device users in the design of zebra crossings. Safety treatments to facilitate safe crossing include markings, signs and continuous flashing beacon lights.

2.     In areas with high pedestrian footfall, such as in the vicinity of schools, residential housing estates or community centres, zebra crossings may be widened or raised to enhance safety. With more Silver Zones and Friendly Streets implemented across Housing and Development Board towns, LTA will incorporate more zebra crossings with these enhanced features. LTA will also continue to review design features to improve safety for all active mobility users.

3.     Active mobility device users such as cyclists and power-assisted bicycle riders should slow down, stop and look out for oncoming traffic before making their way across zebra crossings. Similarly, drivers should slow down when approaching zebra crossings and look out for pedestrians and active mobility device users crossing the road.