TP Rewarding Riders Who Practise Safe-Riding Behaviour (Till 23 Nov)

Ahh, the power of the traffic police to command you to pull over because you were one hell of a driver.

Okay, we meant that in a good way.

From 23 October to 23 November, as part of their Road Safety Campaigns, the Singapore Police Force is gearing up to reward people on the road who will be displaying commendable behaviour.

This means donning the correct protective apparel and displaying good riding behaviour, under their Reward the Riders initiative.

During this period, they will be heading out to catch the do-gooders who used their #RoadSense. The drivers will be gifted a bag and a shirt emblazoned with the slogan “take the road to responsibility.”

What Led to This?

According to a 2019 news release made by the Singapore Police Force, they shared the following statistics:

• The number of accidents resulting in injuries involving motorcyclists increased by 2.1% from 4,270 cases in 2017 to 4,358 cases in 2018. 2.1% increase in injuries.
• Motorcyclist and pillion rider injuries increased by 0.7% from 4,803 in 2017 to 4,837 in 2018.
• Fatality rates have also increased: the number of fatal accidents involving motorcyclists increased to 45 cases in 2017 to 65 cases in 2018. Motorcyclist and pillion rider fatalities increased by 38.6% They accounted for almost half of all road traffic fatalities in 2018.

With rising numbers, come rising anxieties.

And they’re not all from the Traffic Police. The public sent feedback letters on 18,500 cases of irresponsible driving in 2018 alone.

With these statistics, the Traffic Police were looking at solutions to curb the rising numbers.

Where the “Use Your Roadsense” Initiative Comes In

Apart from compulsory simulation training by end 2019 for all learner motorists to familiarise themselves with real-life traffic situations, and defensive riding practical lessons, the Traffic Police also mentioned their intention to continue reaching out to motorcyclists through engagement events, such as the Singapore Ride Safe campaign.

Hence, a Reward the Rider initiative was introduced to reward riders who wear protective gear and for showing good riding behaviour.

While this encouragement from the Traffic Police serves as a fun way to encourage safe driving, let it also be a reminder that looking out for one another on the road is as easy as a pat on the back.

You can view the Facebook post here: