Despite Singapore’s outstanding public transportation networks, hundreds of people still drive to work every day. Even though the majority of Singaporean drivers pass the driving test, some nonetheless make mistakes. According to statistics, there were around 13,000 traffic offenses in 2016, and the numbers are not expected to decrease very soon.
What are Some Common Traffic Offences?
- Making an unauthorized u-turn:
According to Singaporean rules, you cannot make a u-turn if there is no u-turn sign. This is unsafe and dangerous since you risk disrupting traffic flow or colliding with other vehicles. You may be fined $70 for this offense. - Driving in the right lane at a slower speed:
The “overtaking lane” on an expressway in Singapore is the right-most lane. This is for automobiles that are going to be on the road for an extended period of time. You could be fined up to $1,000 and/or sentenced to three months in prison if you’re caught hogging the road. - Driving recklessly or without due care or attention
Driving a motor vehicle on a road without appropriate care and attention, or without reasonable concern for other road users, is illegal under section 65 of the RTA. - Use of mobile phone while driving
Whether you’re calling, texting, sending emails, uploading, or downloading files while driving, you’re guilty of an offense, according to Section 65 of the Road Traffic Act. Even having a communication device on your hand will count as an offense. - Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Under section 67 of the RTA, it is an offense for a person to drive or attempt to drive while under the influence of alcohol, a drug, or an intoxicating substance that makes the person incapable of having proper control of his vehicle.
How to know if I’ve been charged with a traffic violation?
You can look up information about a traffic violation using The Electronic Driver Data Information & Enquiry System (EDDIES).
Please keep in mind that EDDIES only keeps track of outstanding traffic tickets issued by the Traffic Police.
EDDIES will not record when you are being investigated for a traffic offense but have not been charged with one.
To access EDDIES, you must use one of the following methods:
SingPass;
Serial number of NRIC/FIN and Photocard Licence; or
A number of foreign-registered vehicles.
Any outstanding traffic offenses will be automatically recorded by the system.
What Happens If I‘ve been charged with a Traffic Offence?
Pay the fine: If you’ve been charged with a minor traffic offense, you’ll be sent a Notice of Traffic Offense with the amount due, also known as an offer of composition. Simply make a payment through one of the methods listed.
Court appearance: You may receive a Notice to Attend Court instead of a Notice of Traffic Offense for two reasons:
- You committed a minor traffic offense without an offer of composition;
- You committed a serious traffic offense that could have resulted in serious injury or death and is punishable under the penal code.
In these two situations, a lawyer can assist you in understanding the legal implications of your actions, your options, and the penalties. They can also help you preserve your insurance premiums as well as your driving record.
Serious traffic offenses without an offer of composition, especially those resulting in serious injury or death are classified as criminal offenses. Call your lawyer immediately before claiming to trial or pleading guilty. This will ensure you will be properly represented in the criminal case.
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