Road users are advised to practice defensive driving and stay alert at all times, as accidents can occur in a split second.
For a cyclist crossing a T-junction along Kembangan, it was a few short moments between disregarding a traffic sign and getting hit by a vehicle.
“All road users must obey road rules for the safety of self and others,” wrote Facebook page ROADS.sg in a post on Wednesday (Mar 30).
The page also uploaded a video of an incident captured via dashboard camera of a cyclist refusing to stop at a T-junction despite the bright red stop sign to his left.
Shortly after, an incoming sedan collides with the cyclist, causing the rider and the bicycle to bounce off the car’s bonnet before landing on the ground.
“Car driver bonnet confirm got scratches and will have difficulty claiming insurance,” added ROADS.sg, noting the incident happened at the junction of Lorong Melayu on Mar 30.
With over 740 comments, members from the online community confirmed it was “unjust” for drivers to be unable to claim insurance after getting involved in accidents with errant cyclists.
“Very unjust to honest drivers for not able to claim insurance against reckless cyclists who caused damages due to their fault. Can the authorities wake up and do something to protect the motorists,” said Facebook user Ande Liew, receiving over 260 likes from others.
Another Facebook user added, “Ya, he deserves it! If you use the road, you must abide by the traffic laws for the safety of everyone. Stop and look at all junctions; good for everyone. Luckily he’s still alive!”
Others noted that the cyclist also didn’t wear a helmet, which was required by the law.
The Land Transport Authority announced a set of new rules on Feb 1, 2019, to encourage safer path and road-sharing behaviours.
Cyclists on Singapore roads must wear helmets and “stop and look” at road crossings.
For failing to wear a helmet, a cyclist can be fined up to S$1,000, imprisoned for up to three months, or both. /TISG