The Highway Code is a code of conduct for road users, so that we can have a safe road environment. With effect from 1 December 2019, new provisions will be introduced to the Code, while certain provisions will be revised for greater clarity. The amendments include guidance on giving way to emergency vehicles, advice to pedestrians to avoid using mobile communication devices while crossing roads, and reminders for users of personal mobility devices that these devices are prohibited from being used on roads.
Key Amendments
Giving Way to Emergency Vehicles
In an emergency, every second counts. Road users should exercise civic responsibility and give way to emergency vehicles. This can make a real difference to saving lives.
Upon hearing the emergency siren of any motor vehicle used for medical, fire-rescue, military, police or customs purposes, or seeing the flashing lights of such a vehicle, motorists should:
- Stay calm and check the direction of the oncoming emergency vehicle;
- Give way by signalling early, and filter towards the left if it is safe to do so;
- Slow down to let the emergency vehicle overtake if it is not safe to filter to the left safely;
- Not speed up to block an overtaking emergency vehicle, or try to overtake or tailgate an emergency vehicle; and
- Not break the law (e.g. by driving through a red light) to give way to the emergency vehicle.
Avoiding the Use of Mobile Communication Devices while Crossing Roads
Pedestrians are a particularly vulnerable group of road users. They face an increased risk of fatal or severe injury in the event of an accident.
Pedestrians should exercise caution at all times, and not risk their own safety and the safety of other road users. When crossing roads, they should avoid using mobile communication devices. They should always use pedestrian crossings where available, and obey all traffic signs and traffic lights.
Proper Use of Active Mobility Devices
This is for the safety of users and other motorists around them. A provision will be added to the Highway Code to emphasise this. Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) such as e-scooters, and Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) such as motorised wheelchairs, are not allowed to travel on roads.
SINGAPORE POLICE FORCE
15 November 2019 @ 5:00 PM