Training Singapore’s learner motorists, virtually

You’ll be pleased to hear that road traffic fatalities have been at a steady decline since 2010. In 2017, the fatality rate per 100,000 persons fell to 2.17, from 2.51 in 2016. This is the lowest fatality rate since 1981. The number of accidents resulting in injuries too has fallen by 7%, to 7,724 cases in 2017, from 8,304 cases in 2016. 

While this is great news, as drivers, we should all aim to achieve a situation where there are zero accidents or fatalities. Keeping this in mind, the Traffic Police is taking further steps to boost road safety education. To ease learner drivers onto the roads and instil good driving and riding behaviour, the Traffic Police intends to introduce simulation training modules as a compulsory component for those learning to drive. 

Learner motorists can look forward to encountering scenarios such as driving during heavy rain and accidents arising from failing to check blind spots among others. Unlike traditional ways of teaching, simulation training will allow learner motorists to practise learning experientially and experience real-life situations in a safe and controlled environment. This will enable them to be better prepared when they actually start driving and encounter similar situations. 

The simulation training trial for all Class 2B, 2A, 3 and 3A learner motorists started at ComfortDelGro Driving Centre on 1 February 2018. Following this, the trial will be held at Singapore Safety Driving Centre and Bukit Batok Driving Centre. Next year, all learner motorists will be required to take up simulation training.

Learner drivers and motorcyclists will have to sit for three modules, each lasting 20 minutes.

To make it relevant to the local context, each module will feature various scenarios based on the main causes of accidents in Singapore, and will be set on local roads.

Virtual teaching

When a student motorist meets with an accident on the simulator, a virtual instructor will be on hand to give out advice on how he should handle the situation. On top of that, the virtual instructor will also cheer on and motivate learners when they follow sound road habits, such as slowing down when traffic lights flash amber. 

Existing drivers are also allowed to try out these modules should they feel inclined to do so.

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