Layout of Traffic Junctions

Er Dr Lee Bee Wah asked the Minister for Transport following recent fatal traffic accidents, whether LTA will (i) study measures to amend the layout of traffic junctions; (ii) enhance safety measures at junctions that are accident-prone, such as Lentor Avenue and Yio Chu Kang Road; and (iii) impose harsher penalties on motorists who cause death due to their recklessness.

LTA designs traffic junctions with safety as the paramount consideration, while ensuring reasonably smooth traffic flow. LTA frequently studies and reviews traffic junction designs based on international best practices, and applies them to local conditions. Safety enhancements that have been implemented recently include a separate set of traffic lights to control right-turning movements, lighted road studs along pedestrian crossings and advance warning lights for traffic signals turning red.

For the specific junction at Lentor Avenue and Yio Chu Kang Road, there has not been any major traffic accident in the last three years. Nevertheless, we note the Member's feedback and LTA will do a safety review for that junction.

Page: 128

Currently, motorists who cause death due to reckless, rash or negligent driving can receive a maximum penalty of up to five years' imprisonment, a fine and a driving ban, upon conviction. These penalties are aligned to other criminal acts under the Penal Code where a death is unintentionally caused. The Singapore Police Force reviews the adequacy of the penalty framework regularly and will impose harsher penalties if required.