Accidents happen every day on Singapore’s roads. At times, they may be of trivial nature, necessitating compensation being paid out amongst vehicle owners. On other occasions, the result can be severe, thus requiring the assistance of traffic police and emergency medical response services. Common examples of motor accidents include:
- Changing a lane without caution
- Knocking into another’s car while parking
- High-speed collision when safety following distance is not kept between cars
All of these situations can result in accidents, damaging the vehicles and possibly endangering drivers and bystanders. While it is true that you should exercise good driving judgement at all times, statistics have shown that particular areas in Singapore are more prone to accidents. In this article, we list these roads where extra vigilance should be adopted.
Pan Island Expressway, Jalan Anak Bukit Flyover
The Pan Island Expressway (PIE) is not easy to maneuver about especially when you are unfamiliar or new to it.
This becomes even more evident as you are driving towards Jalan Anak Bukit Flyover which has an exit just before the flyover. With heavy traffic flow and many vehicles heading towards this exit which is inconveniently to the right, yes you heard me right, on the overtaking lane. Traffic here slows down tremendously. Those who only frequent here from time to time might just have an unpleasant surprise waiting for them.
What makes the flyover even more dangerous is it’s ever so slight left curve. With this slight curve, drivers are confident on taking this corner. This is a recipe for disaster and many have had their vehicle skid and spined when travelling through here.
Central Expressway Tunnel
The Central Express Way (CTE) is a rather straightforward express way. However, our personal experience has told us that other drivers here may be less friendly. There are many drivers who tend to speed up and close the gap when you signal and want to enter their lane or perhaps even tailgate you at the speed limit if you manage to get into their lane.
The CTE tunnel becomes a place more prone to accident with the factors listed above and additional variables such as a lower than normal speed limit of 80kmph. Furthermore, drivers who love the sound of their exhaust enjoy speeding through this section. Often drivers tend to not observe the safety distance and thus chain collision accidents happen.
Just this year, there was a chain collision of 5 cars and even an expensive Nissan GTR had crashed in this tunnel.
This is another road notorious for accidents, and perhaps it is why the speed limit is only 70km/h. This road is frequently used for drivers who wish to avoid peak hour ERP charges. When paired alongside the fact that drivers here are often in a hurry, it is easy to deduce why accidents are frequent here. (Additional note: this is a common traffic police “sniper” location due to the sheer volume of drivers who speed. Be sure not to be one of them.)
This road is another which is home to many accidents. It has been affected by road diversions and construction works due to the building of the new Upper Thomson Line. Road markings are unclear with the previous road marking still visible and the road are twisted. Speed limit is also at 50km/h due to the construction instead of the normal 70km/h. However, there are many drivers who disregard the temporary speed limit. Additionally, Upper Thomson Road has many cafes and restaurants around. Be on a look out for errand jaywalkers too!
Every discretionary right turns
This is one of the most accident-prone type of “roads”. Found at many traffic junctions that we pass daily. discretionary right turns have led to a number of fatal accidents and are arguably problematic.
We all have been in the situation where the road seems clear and no car has passed by the junction. However, all that is stopping us is a van which is doing the same discretionary right turn opposite of us, blocking our view of the opposite lane. Taking the risk to turn may lead to a fatal accident and we advise to not turn during such circumstances.
However, that is not the only problem with discretionary right turns. There are many cases where drivers fail to keep a proper lookout, or when motorists are speeding on the opposite lane while you are unable to accurately gauge the distance.
The Land Transport Authority (LTA) have said that they will be removing discretionary right turns at most traffic junctions by 2023. However, until then, be mindful when you are performing such a turn.
When you are behind the wheel of a car, driving safely should always be your top concern. We hope that our article has been able to give you further insights on places where accidents are more likely to occur. All in all, you can be a more defensive driver when at these roads to avoid accidents. Remember to drive safe for the sake of yourself and others on the road, and not to forget your loved ones too.
