Using or Holding Phone While Riding on PMD / Bicycle Will be Banned from Next Month

Gotten used to holding your mobile phone while free-wheeling on a PMD/ bicycle?

Well, I got to tell you, those days will soon be a thing of the past.

According to The Straits Times, a number of safety measures have been implemented as part of the Government’s changes to the Active Mobility Act…

And it seems that the holding and using of mobile phones while riding will no longer be permitted.

Using or Holding Phone While Riding on PMD / Bicycle Will be Banned from Next Month

A number of measures, which were first proposed by the Active Mobility Advisory Panel (AMAP) late last year, have been passed and will be implemented from next month onwards.

They were introduced in light of several circumstances, including safety concerns related to distracted riding.

According to The Straits Times, cyclists and users of personal mobility devices will be barred from holding (and using their mobile phones) while riding.

Devices can be used only if they are mounted or operating in a hands-free manner.

In other words, still can use it to check Google Maps or delivery routes for riders but no more replying WhatsApp messages while on the go.

Users who break the law may incur a fine of up to $1,000 or a prison term of up to three months for the first offence.

Subsequently, the maximum punishment will be doubled.

Other Safety Measures

In addition to the aforementioned rule, other measures have also been given the green light.

From next month, those under 16 years old are liable to be fined or even jailed for operating an electric scooter without adult supervision.

According to the Land Transport Authority (LTA), the move is to curb reckless riding by the younger generation.

Rules For Pedestrians

Additionally, pedestrians will be informed of the necessary safe practices via a code of conduct. Though details are still unclear, three key points have emerged as part of recommendations made by the AMAP:

• Pedestrians should keep to the left on paths unless they are overtaking others.
• They should choose footpaths whenever they are next to cycling and shared paths.
• They should always pay attention to their surroundings.

Harsher penalties for errant users, as well as the requirement for retailers to send e-scooters for safety inspections, have also been implemented.

Apparently, around 200 active mobility enforcement officers will be sent by the LTA to enforce the measures.

Well, I guess life on the road will never be the same again.

With that said, pay heed to your surroundings and always observe the proper instructions. After all…

It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Now that you’re done crying over the fact that you can’t freewheel anymore, you might as well just watch our latest video whereby we simplify what TraceTogether is here: