Cyclist crosses street on red light, risking herself and other road users for chain collision

Singapore — A woman on a bicycle crossing the street when the lights showed red while risking herself and the safety of other road users has sparked a call among netizens to begin issuing licenses for cyclists or make it mandatory for them to dismount when using a pedestrian lane.

On Sunday (Dec 12), Facebook page ROADS.sg uploaded a video of the incident caught on the dashboard camera.

The footage began with the cam car turning towards Tampines Expressway on a green light.

However, right after the two vehicles in front passed, a woman on a bicycle began crossing the street at a red light.

“Cyclist should have known better that even as a pedestrian, one should not cross on the red man,” wrote ROADS.sg. “Luckily, driver was alert and stopped in time to avoid colliding into cyclist.”

Responding to the post, members from the online community highlighted the need for certain regulations to be imposed on cyclists.

“That’s why cyclists need a license. This will not happen,” said Facebook user Ricky Lim.

“We need an awareness program and outreach,” added Facebook user Faizal Tan.

Others wondered if making rules such as dismounting a bicycle when crossing a street must be made mandatory.

In a lengthy comment, Facebook user Wee Lee wrote:

“That’s why the rules should be changed such that they are responsible for their own safety,” added Facebook user Loh Zheng Yi. “Drivers should never be penalised for causing any accidents in such blatant situations.”

Meanwhile, many thanked the dashcam driver and those behind for being alert.

“Luckily, the cars behind are alert enough to stop as well. Easily could have been a chain collision,” a netizen noted.

One Periasamy Mari said, “Thank you for being alert. Please continue to be vigilant at pedestrian crossings. Drive safe! Let’s not cause any unnecessary accidents just because of one’s right of way.”

According to the safe cycling guidelines issued by the Land Transport Authority, Traffic Police and Tampines GROs, cyclists are told to slow down when approaching road openings such as pedestrian crossings.

“Do not cycle across pedestrian crossings. Dismount and push your bicycle when you are crossing the pedestrian crossing,” the advisory noted. /TISG

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