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Rethinking Road Safety A Collective Responsibility
CEO Message: Road Safety Matters: A Shared Responsibility
I want to address an issue that deeply concerns me, not only as the CEO of Budget Direct Insurance but also as a responsible member of our Singaporean community. It's a matter of road safety, and recent statistics are far from reassuring.
In just the first half of 2023, we've witnessed a shocking 60% increase in traffic accident fatalities compared to the same period in 2022. Among these tragedies, seventeen lives were elderly pedestrians aged 60 and above. These incidents are especially distressing as they involve some of the most vulnerable members of our society.
What's even more alarming is that accidents involving elderly pedestrians accounted for a staggering 68% of all pedestrian fatalities during this period. These statistics paint a grim picture when compared to the previous year.
A Plea for Courtesy on Our Roads
The Traffic Police have tirelessly advocated against jaywalking and urged all of us to actively discourage it among our family, friends, and acquaintances. They emphasise the dangers and promote the use of designated crossings. However, it's essential to recognise that there's more we can do to educate motorists.
I wholeheartedly agree with the spokesperson for the road safety advocacy group Roads.sg, who stated that entitlement among drivers often leads to a lack of courtesy on our roads. This kind of behaviour poses a genuine threat to our road community and the safety of our most vulnerable road users, as emphasised by these alarming traffic accident statistics.
I understand that we've heard this message before, but it needs to be reinforced now more than ever: Road safety is a collective responsibility, and each one of us should play our part in looking out for one another on our roads.
During a recent family trip to Japan, I observed a commendable level of courtesy among motorists towards pedestrians and cyclists. Drivers slowed down and patiently waited for pedestrians to cross, even outside designated crossing areas. It's a simple act of consideration that can go a long way in ensuring safety on our roads.
Let's refrain from placing the blame on the elderly, who often choose the path of least resistance when crossing a street, avoiding steep steps on overhead bridges, for instance. As responsible motorists, it's our duty too to exercise caution and courtesy.
Making Our Roads Friendlier
I'm encouraged by the significant infrastructure changes that the Land Transport Authority (LTA) is implementing. One notable initiative is the creation of "Friendly Streets," designed to make walking and cycling safer, more convenient, and comfortable for daily journeys to key amenities in our neighbourhoods. It builds upon existing efforts such as Silver Zones, School Zones, Transit Priority Corridors, and road repurposing to create more inclusive neighbourhoods and foster gracious communities.
Another promising initiative set to launch is "Reward the Pedestrians." The Traffic Police will recognise pedestrians displaying good road safety habits with a well-deserved goodie bag.
At Budget Direct Insurance, we wholeheartedly embrace these initiatives as they play a significant role in making Singapore's roads safer for everyone.
In the meantime, I invite you to explore our blog, where we shed light on high-risk areas or "danger zones." These are the hotspots where elderly pedestrians often cross the road outside designated crossings. As responsible motorists, it's crucial for us to remain especially vigilant in these areas.
Let's always remember that safety begins with each of us. By working together, we can genuinely make a difference in ensuring a safe journey for everyone.
Simon Birch CEO, Budget Direct Insurance