New traffic laws set stage for crackdown on drink driving, phone holding and rogue motorists
The Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill was passed by Parliament on Aug 4.
Singapore has enacted more severe traffic laws to tackle drink driving, phone use, and dangerous driving. Parliament passed the Traffic (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill on August 4, introducing tougher punishments for motorists who endanger lives on the roads. The new laws reduce the alcohol limit for drivers by over half, from 35 micrograms (mcg) of alcohol per 100ml of breath to 15mcg, and lower blood alcohol limits from 80 milligrams (mg) to 30mg.
Jail time for first-time offenders is now up to 12 months, with a fine and driving ban, compared to previous measures of a fine and two-year ban. The Bill introduces a new offence of purposeful endangerment, with up to 15 years' jail for drivers who intentionally endanger others, and penalties for dangerous and careless driving causing grievous hurt increased.
The new handheld breathalyser allows traffic police to prosecute drink drivers at the roadside, and additional penalties for serious offenders will be raised. The Bill also makes it an offence to hold a mobile device while driving, with punishments of up to six months' jail and a $1,000 fine for first-time offenders.
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