Basic theory test Flashcards
1
Q
2 reasons of traffic signs
A
(a) To regulate traffic movements.
(b) To warn and inform road users of hazards or give useful information
2
Q
Mandatory signs
A
These are compulsory signs. It is an offence to disobey them
3
Q
Turn right only blue and white (mandatory)
A
Right arrow
4
Q
Turn left only blue and white (mandatory)
A
Left arrow
5
Q
Ahead only blue and white (mandatory)
A
Forward arrow
6
Q
Turn right ahead blue and white (mandatory)
A
Forward line, right arrow
7
Q
Turn left ahead blue and white (mandatory)
A
Forward line, left arrow
8
Q
Keep left blue and white (mandatory)
A
Arrow pointing to your left, in your direction
9
Q
Split traffic (vehicles may pass on either sides) (mandatory)
A
Two arrows pointing to both your left and right
10
Q
Stop red sign (mandatory)
A
Stop before white line
Give way to traffic from right and left
11
Q
Stop children red sign (mandatory)
A
Stop for children to cross the road
12
Q
Left turn on red blue sign
Stop before turning yellow and black sign
(mandatory)
A
- Stop at the red light
- Give way to pedestrians crossing at the junction
- Give way to traffic approaching from the right
- Proceed only when the way is clear and it is safe to do so
13
Q
Give way red white sign (mandatory)
A
Give way
(Slow down. Stop if necessary.
(Give way to traffic on major road)
14
Q
Prohibitory signs
A
Failure to comply with these signs constitutes an offence.
15
Q
Red sign with a white - dash
A
No entry (for all vehicles)
16
Q
X sign red and blue sign
A
No stopping
17
Q
Slanted line \ red and blue sign
A
No waiting
Vehicles may stop to allow boarding or alighting only
18
Q
Slanted line to the right with no loading/unloading
Weekdays (x time - y time)
Weekends (x time-y time(
A
No waiting and No loading/unloading during stated hours
19
Q
Slanted red line / on right turn in a white red sign
A
No right turn
20
Q
Slanted red line \ on left turn in a white red sign
A
No left turn
21
Q
> 2.3m
in a white red sign
A
Width limit (This sign prohibits the entry of vehicles with width in excess of 2.3m. The numerals on the sign may be altered to indicate different width restriction)
22
Q
↓
4.5m
^
in a white red sign
A
Height limit as stated (prohibit entry)
23
Q
10
TONNES
in a white red sign
A
Weight limit as stated (prohibit entry)
24
Q
40 in a white red sign
A
Speed limit of 40km/h
25
50-90 range in a white red sign
Speed limit of 50-90 km/h
26
Cancel sign for horn
No horning (except to prevent accidents)
27
Cancel sign for 2 cars side by side
No overtaking
28
Cancel sign for lorry
No entry for lorries
29
Cancel sign for vehicles with 3 sets of wheels
No entry for vehicles with 3 sets of wheels
30
Cancel sign for motorbikes
No entry for motorbikes
31
cancel signs for motorbikes and bicycles
no entry for motorbikes and bicycles
32
Warning signs
Take extra care, slow down as you approach these signs.
33
Right bended arrow in a white red triangle
Right bend (Slow down. Keep left. Do not
overtake, make a U-turn or
park your vehicle)
34
Left bended arrow in a white red triangle
Left bend (Slow down. Keep left. Do
not overtake, make a U-turn
or park your vehicle)
35
N shaped black arrow
Series of bends
(Slow down. Keep left. Do not overtake,
make a U-turn or park your vehicle)
36
Cross in a white red triangle
```
Cross junction (Slow down. Beware of traffic
approaching junction)
```
37
T in a white red triangle
T junction (Slow down. Give
way to traffic from
the right and left)
38
I- in a white red triangle
```
Side road (Slow down. Beware of
vehicles from the right)
```
39
-I in a white red triangle
```
Side road (Slow down. Beware of
vehicles from the left)
```
40
Y in a white red triangle
‘Y’ junction (Slow down. Beware of
traffic joining from the
right and left)
41
Y slanted to the right in a white red triangle
Y’ junction (Slow down. Beware
of traffic joining from
the right)
42
Y slanted to the left in a white red triangle
(Slow down. Beware
of traffic joining from
the left)
43
Y slanted to the left facing you in a white red triangle
Merging traffic
(Slow down. Beware
of traffic joining from
the left)
44
I- in a white red triangle
| -I
Staggered junction
(Slow down. Beware
of vehicles from the
right and left)
45
2 arrows, 1 facing forward and another facing backwards in a white red triangle
Two-way traffic ahead
(Slow down. Keep left.
Beware of oncoming
traffic)
46
2 arrows, 1 facing left and another facing right in a white red triangle
```
Two-way traffic across a one-way
carriageway
(Slow down. Beware of
traffic from the right
and left)
```
47
2 arrows, 1 joining in from the left and one forward arrow
Lanes merging
(Slow down. Beware
of traffic merging from
right or left)
48
I I
/ I
I I
Road narrows on one side
(Slow down. Do not overtake, make a
U-turn or park your vehicle)
49
I I
I \
I I
Road narrows on one side
(Slow down. Do not overtake, make a
U-turn or park your vehicle)
50
I I
/ \
I I
Road narrows on both sides
(Slow down. Do not
overtake, make a U-turn
or park your vehicle)
51
I
/ \
I I
Dual-carriageway ends
(Slow down. Keep left.
Beware of oncoming
traffic)
52
Circle
Roundabout
(Slow down. Stop if
necessary. Give way to
traffic on the right)
53
Traffic light, green, yellow, red
Light signals ahead
(Slow down. Beware of
traffic lights changing
54
A figure of man walking to the right
Pedestrian crossing ahead
(Slow down. Stop for
pedestrian to cross at
designated crossing)
55
ERP in a red white triangle
```
Electronic Road
Pricing Zone ahead
(Pay a road user charge
when entering the zone
during restricted hours)
```
56
Expressway in a red white triangle
Expressway ahead
(Certain types of vehicles
are prohibited from using
the expressway)
57
Blank white red triangle
Vehicle breakdown sign
(To be placed at least 20
metres from the rear of
the vehicle)
58
A S shape road with a car swerving in a white red triangle
(Slow down.
| Drive carefully)
59
Gate in a white red triangle
Gated level crossing
(Slow down.
Beware of gate closing
60
train in a white red triangle
Ungated level crossing
(Slow down. Beware of
train approaching)
61
2 humps in a white red triangle
Uneven road
(Slow down. Keep left.
Do not overtake)
62
1 hump in a white red triangle
Road hump ahead
(Slow down. Keep left.
Do not overtake)
63
Car going up a slope in a white red triangle
```
Steep upward slope
(Keep left. Change to
a lower gear. Do not
overtake, make a U-turn
or park your vehicle)
```
64
Car going down a slope in a white red triangle
```
Steep downward slope
(Keep left. Change to
a lower gear. Do not
overtake, make a U-turn
or park your vehicle)
```
65
Car falling off a land and into water in a white red triangle
Road leading to quay,
river bank or sea
(Slow down. Beware of
road ending ahead)
66
A horse in a white red triangle
(Slow down.
| Beware of animals)
67
Airplane in a white red triangle
Low flying aircraft ahead
(Beware of sudden noise
from low flying aircraft)
68
Elderly people in a white red triangle
Elderly or handicapped pedestrians
(Slow down. Beware of elderly or
handicapped pedestrians crossing the
road)
69
Zebra crossing in a white red triangle
```
Raised zebra
crossing ahead
(Slow down. Stop for
pedestrians to cross
at the raised zebra
crossing)
```
70
Children in a white red triangle
Children
(Slow down. Beware of children
crossing the road)
71
Inverted U turn ahead in a white red triangle
U-turn ahead
(U-turn ahead
for vehicles)
72
U turn ahead in a white red triangle
U-turn ahead
(From opposite direction)
(Beware of U-turning vehicles
from opposite direction)
73
School zone drive carefully in a blue yellow rectangle
Start of school zone
(Slow down and look
out for children walking
or crossing the road)
74
School zone, 40 speed limit when lights flash in a blue yellow rectangle
School zone, 40km/h when lights
flash
(Do not exceed 40km/h when the
amber lights flash alternately)
75
man holding a child in a red, white triangle
Pedestrian in road ahead
(Slow down.
Beware of pedestrians
Crossing the road ahead)
76
Sliver zone Slow down in blue yellow triangle, may have 40 as speed limit
```
Start of silver zone
(Slow down and look out for elderly
pedestrians crossing the road ahead.
Vehicles shall not travel at more than
40km/h in the silver zone if
40km/h speed limit sign is attached
below)
```
77
Regulatory signs
These signs regulate the movements of traffic.
78
REDUCE SPEED NOW
Slow down
79
Speed check area
Drive within the speed limit
80
KEEP LEFT UNLESS Overtaking
Keep to the left side of
the road and leave the
outermost right lane
for overtaking vehicles
81
CAUTION ROADS AHEAD 60M
Slow down and beware
| of obstruction ahead
82
SINGLE LANE LIGHT
Slow down and give way as
| traffic converges into single lane
83
DETOUR AHEAD 50M
Slow down and get
| ready to detour ahead
84
DETOUR ->
Detour in the direction indicated
85
> > > > in a black white sign
Sharp deviation
(Slow down and drive in the
direction indicated)
86
^
| I in a blue-white sign
One-way traffic
(Vehicles may turn
right or left)
87
Black and yellow striped rectangle
Barrier
| Slow down and drive carefully
88
< - in a blue white sign
One-way street
(One-way street begins
from this sign)
89
< < < < < in yellow black boards
Curve Alignment Markers
| Slow down and drive carefully at bends
90
I- red wall
| In a blue white sign
(Road on the right does
| not lead to another road)
91
- (red in color)
I
in a blue white sign
No through road
| Road ends in a short distance
92
Bus terminus in a blue white sign
‘Terminus’ with ‘Terminal’
| (For buses only
93
Black white sign with a bus
```
Bus stop
(No parking or stopping
within 9 metres of the bus
stop or within the bus bay
except omnibuses)
```
94
Taxi Stop in a yellow sign
For taxis only
95
Taxi Stand for 6 Taxis only
For taxis only
96
Bus lane
Stated hours
in a blue white sign
```
Bus lane
(Vehicles other than
buses are not allowed
to use this lane during
restricted hours)
```
Normal Bus Lane Hours
(Denoted by a Continuous
Yellow Line)
97
Bus lane
Full day stated hours
in a blue white sign
```
Full-Day Bus
Lane Hours
(Denoted by a
Continuous
Yellow-and-Red Line)
```
98
Red light camera ahead
| in a blue white sign
Red light camera ahead
Get ready to stop when
the signals change to
“Amber"
99
U turn in a blue white sign
U-turn facility ahead
(Vehicles should
U-turn after the sign)
100
U turn in a blue white sign with black yellow sign at bottom stating vehicles not exceeding 2500kg in unladen weight
```
U-turn sign with vehicle
weight restriction
(U-turn ahead for vehicles
not exceeding the weight
limit as stated on the sign)
```
101
^ ^ -> -> ->
| I I I I I
Three turning lanes ahead
(Signal and filter to the
correct lane)
102
Dark blue and white sign Give way to buses exiting
```
Bus Priority Box
(Also known as Mandatory
Give-Way to Buses)
(Slow down at the first GiveWay Triangle road marking and
watch out for buses exiting bus stop.
Stop before the Give-Way
lines and give way to buses which
are waiting to leave the bus stop.
Do not stay in the yellow
Give-Way Bus Box)
```
103
Give way to buses exiting
```
Give-way to buses
exiting.
(Slow down.
Give way to buses
exiting the bus bay)
```
104
4 waiting lanes ahead
I ->
I ->
I ->
I ->
```
Four waiting lanes ahead
(Vehicles waiting to
turn may take any of the
four waiting lanes. Stop
for pedestrians crossing
the road)
```
105
\ I
I \I
I I
```
Exclusive left turn and
shared left turn lane ahead
(Usually along expressway)
(Signal and filter to the
correct lane
```
106
Expressway in a blue white sign
Start of expressway
(Vehicles should comply
with the Expressway
Rules after this point)
107
A red cancel sign on expressway
End of expressway
(Vehicles should slow
down and drive within
the speed limit of the road)
108
Umbrella
Rain shelter for
| motorcyclists
109
TOW AWAY ZONE
Any vehicle parked
in this zone may be
towed away
110
TRAFFIC SIGNALS NOT IN OPERATIONS
MON-SAT
7am-9am
```
Traffic signals
operating hours
(Traffic signals not in
operation during
stated hours)
```
111
White walking stick
White walking sticks
(Slow down. Stop if necessary
to give way to blind people
crossing the road)
112
END OF SCHOOL ZONE
End of school zone
113
END OF SLIVER ZONE
End of silver zone
114
WHEEL CLAMP ZONE
Any vehicle parked in this zone
| may have its wheel clamped
115
SPEED REGULATING STRIPS AHEAD, SLOW(RED)
Speed regulating
strips ahead
(Slow down)
116
PARKING ENFORCEMENT CAMERA, FINE UP TO $300 and 3 demerit points
Parking Enforcement
| Camera
117
PEDESTRIAN CROSSING SIGNS
Pedestrians should obey these signs when crossing the road.
118
Overpass in a dark blue white sign
Pedestrian overpass
119
Underpass in a dark blue white sign
Pedestrian underpass
120
Man walking in a white blue triangle sign
Designated pedestrian crossing
121
Red man taffic
Pedestrian signal
‘Red Man’
(Do not cross)
122
Green man traffic light
Pedestrian signal ‘Green Man’
(You may cross but do
not cross when the
light flickers)
123
Countdown timer traffic light
Countdown timer
(Indicates the remaining time
(in seconds) for pedestrians
to cross the road)
124
Cancel sign on pedestrian crossing the road
Pedestrian crossing Prohibition
(Within these signs, pedestrians must use the designated crossing
when crossing the road)
125
TRAFFIC SIGNS FOR TUNNELS
Traffic using the tunnel should heed and obey these signs.
126
Tunnel road in red white triangle
Tunnel ahead
(The stretch of road
ahead is in a tunnel)
127
Vehicles explode cancel in a red white circle
Vehicles carrying
dangerous goods are not
allowed in the tunnels
128
TURN ON LIGHTS and FM Radio in a blue white sign
Switch on headlights
and turn on radio
(Local/BBC)
129
Green arrow black background
The GREEN Arrow
| indicates that the lane is open for use
130
Flashing X symbol black background
The FLASHING AMBER Cross
is a caution signal to indicate possible obstruction
ahead although the lane is open to vehicles.
Drivers must slow down and be prepared to change lane
131
Red cross black background
The RED Cross
| indicates that the lane is closed to traffic
132
Signs for pedal cycles
Pedal cyclists should obey these signs.
133
Cancel signs for bicycle
No entry for bicycles
134
Cancel sign for pedestrians and pedal-cycles
No entry for pedestrians and
| pedal-cycles
135
Bicycle in blue white sign
Bicycle stand
136
Cancel sign for bicycle blue and white sign
No parking of bicycles
137
Bicycle riding cancel sign red and white
This sign prohibits the riding
of pedal-cycles (e.g. trishaws,
tricycles and bicycles) beyond
the point marked by the sign.
138
Bicycle in blue and white sign
Bicycle crossing
139
No parking of bicycles cancel sign blue and white sign
No parking of bicycles
140
Cyclists ahead slow down
Cyclists Ahead
141
Road safety tips for cyclists
Bicycles
(a) Install a front light and rear light or reflector for cycling during hours of darkness.
(b) A properly secured seat is required for pillion riders below 12 years old.
(c) Always obey traffic light signals.
(d) Cycle with the flow of traffic when on the roads.
(e) Always dismount at pedestrian crossings and push your bicycle across.
(f) Do not cycle along footways, expressways or overhead bridges.
142
Power-assisted
(a) You must only ride an LTA-approved power-assisted bicycle.
(b) Minimum age for Power-Assisted Bicyclists, including pillion passengers, is 16 years old.
(c) Protective helmets must be worn when riding Power-Assisted Bicycle.
(d) Power-Assisted Bicycle must be registered and affixed with a rear number plate.
(e) It is and offence to use the Mobile Communication Device while riding a Power-Assisted Bicycle or a Pedal Bicycle.
143
Crime advisory
(a) Secure your bicycle with a strong lock (e.g. U-lock) when left unattended, even if it is only for a short while.
(b) Affix a Bicycle Security Label, available from any Neighbourhood Police Centre, to your bicycle to help identify your bicycle
with a unique serial number.
144
Directional signs
Directional signs are usually rectangular with a green background. There are two types: Advance and Confirmation Directional
Signs. Confirmation Directional Signs have a chevron shape on one end to indicate the direction.
145
Clemenceau Ave
Merchant road
Green and white sign
Advance Directional Sign
146
Sentosa Gateway
| Green and white sign
Confirmation Directional Sign
147
On all roads leading to destinations along expressways, the signs have either:
Yellow letters on green backgrounds with yellow borders, which will be phased out;
or
White lettering on green backgrounds, and the white text describing an expressway destination is encased in a blue background
148
^
\
^
I
Jurong
Advance directional sign
149
Confirmation Directional Sign
150
^
| \
Intermediate Sign
151
I I I I
| \/ V V V
Gantry sign
152
- >
| < -
Additional information on some directional
signs have black letters on white backgrounds
with black borders. The sign provides
information on the road that you are
approaching
153
On all roads leading to destinations along roads other than expressways, the signs have white letters on green backgrounds with
white borders.
Advance Directional Sign and Confirmation Directional Sign
154
Expressway monitoring and advisory systems (EMAS)
Motorists should look out for these three types of electronic signboards when travelling towards and along the expressways; and
selected major arterial roads.
155
Travel time display
These electronic advisory signboards are placed at various entrances leading to the expressways. They provide estimated travel times to selected exits on the expressways from the point the motorist enters a particular expressway.
For example, if
a motorist enters CTE, he/she will notice the TTD as below. The estimated travel time to the expressway exit of Ang Mo Kio Avenue 1 is about 5 minutes from the point he/she enters CTE.
The estimated travel times are displayed in colour. Green indicates the travel time displayed is up to 50% more than normal travel time, yellow indicates the travel time displayed is between 50% to 125% more than normal travel time and red indicates the travel time displayed is more than 125% of normal travel time.
Messages are also displayed on this signboard pertaining to incidents on the expressway. For example, the message
“ACCIDENT on CTE (SLE)” displayed on the TTD below informs motorists that there is an accident occurring on the CTE in the direction towards SLE
156
In the TTD below, the travel times are displayed in a single colour. The text “ACCIDENT” toggles with “ON CTE (AYE)” to inform motorists that there is accident occurrence on CTE in the direction of AYE. TTDs like these will be phased out.
Accident
PIE 5 min
AMK AVE 1 8 min
SLE 11 min
157
(b) TRAFFIC INFORMATION DISPLAY (TID) ON EXPRESSWAYS / SELECTED MAJOR ARTERIAL
ROADS
These large displays found along the expressways and selected major arterial roads display traffic information in text and
simple graphic display up to seven colours. They inform motorists of traffic conditions ahead. A red cross indicates location
with reference to the expressway exits or major road names labelled. A flashing red bar indicates road closure ahead. TIDs
may also display information on incident type, lane(s) affected, congestion information, travel time information or other
traffic advisory messages.
For example, if there is an accident on ECP in the direction towards Airport between Bayshore and Tampines exits, the TID
below will alert motorists in advance for them to react accordingly.
158
(i) Road closure along expressway
Flashing red bar to empathize on road closure ahead
Expressway closure after exit reference
Accident icon
159
(ii) Road closure at expressway exit
Flashing red bar to empathize on the exit closure ahead
Exit closure (e.g Ang Mo Kio Ave 1 exit on CTE)
Accident icon
160
(iii) An incident occurs on a flyover or underpass along arterial roads
Incident on flyover
Name of flyover or underpass
Right most lane affected
Accident icon
161
(iv) An incident occurs on the road next to a flyover or underpass along arterial roads
Incident on road next to flyover
162
Traffic sign displays (TSD)
Red triangle, 3 yellow vehicles
These are smaller signs generally found on the centre divider of expressways. Traffic symbols are displayed to indicate
adverse traffic conditions or to provide instructions to motorists to change lanes.
163
EMAS (The Expressway Monitoring and Advisory System) signs
Motorist should also be familiar with most of the traffic symbols used on the EMAS signboards. Some of the more commonly displayed ones are listed below. In addition, lanes are numbered in ascending order from the fast lane to the slow lane, excluding
the road shoulder.
164
(!) in black red triangle
Caution
```
(Slow down. Drive carefully.
Beware of road conditions
such as road sweeping, tree
pruning, plant watering,
spillage, debris or no lane
marking on the road)
```
165
Congestion in a black red triangle
(Slow down. Drive carefully)
166
Accident in a black red triangle
(Slow down. Drive carefully.
Beware of stopped vehicles
and motorists)
167
Vehicle breakdown
| Man push the car black and red triangle
```
Vehicle Breakdown
(Slow down. Drive carefully.
Beware of breakdown
vehicles and motorists)
```
168
Roadworks
Vehicle pilling up sand
Black and red triangle
Roadworks
(Slow down. Drive
carefully. Beware of
roadwork activities)
169
60 recommended speed
| Drive at recommended speed
Recommended speed
(Drive at recommended
speed)
170
/ _
| \ I
Must exit
(Expressway closed
ahead. Exit from
expressway)
171
/ ^
| \ I
Exit Closed Ahead
(Expressway exit closed
ahead. Use alternative exits)
172
^ ^
/ I I
I I I
Lane reduction
(Obstruction at lane 3.
Slow down. Drive carefully.
Get ready to change lane if
necessary)
173
^ ^ ^
/ I I I
I I I I
```
Lane Reduction
(Obstruction at lane 4.
Slow down. Drive carefully.
Get ready to change lane if
necessary)
```
174
Ambulance image
Ambulance
(Look out and give
way to ambulance)
175
Fire engine image
Fire Engine
(Look out and give
way to fire engine)
176
AFT
After
177
BEF
Before
178
LN
Lane
179
SH
Shoulder
180
VEH
Vehicle
181
Event digital board
```
Event
(Drive with
Care. Beware of
event on road.
Expect delays)
```
182
Man running digital board
```
Running Event
(Drive with care.
Beware of running
event on road.
Expect delays)
```
183
Bicycle digital board
```
Cycling Event
(Drive with care.
Beware of cycling
event on road.
Expect delays)
```
184
road goes to left and right
```
Right & Left
Turns Only
(Arterial Road –
Through lanes
closed ahead)
```
185
^
I
I- I
```
No Left Turn
(Arterial Road –
Left turn
lane(s) closed
ahead)
```
186
Parking facility signs
Facility signs give motorists information of facilities and the direction to take to get to them. These signs have black letters on white backgrounds with black borders.
187
Singapore attraction facility sign
Directions leading to places of interest for tourists have
| white multi-lingual text on a brown background with white borders, white arrows and pictures.
188
Vehicle markings
Vehicles carrying dangerous goods are required to display
hazard information signs,
e.g. DANGER- HIGHLY FLAMMABLE.
189
Long vehicles are required to display at least 3 yellow
reflective markings on each side of the vehicle and at least 1 red reflective marking at the rear of the vehicle. This is to make them more conspicuous to other road users, especially at night.
Long vehicles comprise:
(a) Goods vehicles with length exceeding 10 metres;
(b) Trailers with length exceeding 5 metres; and
(c) Mobile cranes with length exceeding 10 metres
(Note: Mobile cranes require fitting of rear markings only).
190
Vehicle speed limit
Buses, goods vehicles and trailers are required to display a marking showing the maximum speed in kilometres per hour at which the vehicle may be driven or, in the case of a trailer, drawn on a road. Such vehicles must not travel faster than their vehicle speed limit or the posted road speed limit, whichever is lower.
191
Common road markings
Common road markings ACROSS the road
192
(a) Parallel Broken White Lines
Parallel broken white lines indicate that traffic approaching these lines must give way to traffic on a major road.
193
(b) Single White Line
Horizontal white line indicates that traffic is required to stop and must stop close to and before this line.
194
(c) Parallel Dashed / Solid White Lines
Parallel dashed or solid white lines (will be phased out)
accompanied by pedestrian signals (Green Man/Red Man) indicate a designated crossing. Turning vehicles must give way to pedestrians when the ‘Green Man’ is lighted.
195
(d) Zebra Crossing
Slow down and stop if there are pedestrians or cyclists crossing or about to cross.
196
(e) Raised Zebra Crossing
Slow down and stop if there are pedestrians or cyclists crossing or about to cross. Beware of raised hump.
197
(f) Hump
Slow down
198
(g) Bus-Friendly Hump
Slow down
199
Common road markings ALONG the road.
..
200
(a) Broken White Line
A broken white line is the centre line of a two-way road. Vehicles should keep to the left of this line.
201
(b) Continuous White Line
A continuous white line is the centre line of a two-way road.
Vehicles should keep to the left of this line. Parking is not allowed on either side of the road at all times.
Motorists can only cross a single continuous or broken white
line when they can see that the road ahead is clear & it is safe
to do so.
202
(c) Unbroken Double White Lines
Parallel continuous white lines in the centre of a two-way road indicate no parking on either side of the road at all times.
Vehicles are also not allowed to cross these lines.
Where continuous double white lines are painted on a road to
separate traffic flowing in opposite directions, you may not overtake at the double white lines unless you keep entirely to the left of such lines.
Never cross double white lines. Making a U-turn or a right turn is not allowed on a road where such lines are painted.
203
(d) Unbroken Yellow Line
An unbroken yellow line indicates no parking between 7.00am and
7.00pm on that side of the road where the line is drawn, except on
Sundays and public holidays.
204
(e) Unbroken Double Yellow Line
Unbroken double yellow lines indicate no parking at all times on that side of the road where these lines are drawn, except for the immediate picking up and letting down of passengers.
205
(f) A Single Yellow Zig-Zag Line
A single yellow zig-zag line indicates No Parking at all times on that side of the road where the line is drawn, except for the immediate picking up and letting down of passengers. Violation of this rule attracts demerit points and a fine.
206
(g) Double Yellow Zig-Zag Lines
Double yellow zig-zag lines indicate No Stopping at all times on that side of the road where the lines are drawn. Violation of this rule attracts demerit points and a fine.
207
(b) Broken White Line at Accelerating Lane
A broken white line indicates the edge of a road adjacent to an accelerating lane.
208
(i) Broken White Line at Decelerating Lane
A broken white line indicates the edge of a road adjacent to a turning or decelerating lane.
209
(j) School Zone
The sections in brick red indicate a school zone. Slow down and look out for children on the road.
210
(k) Yellow Box
Do not drive into the yellow box when traffic has come to a standstill at the left lane. Give way to vehicles from the side road entering the main road.
211
(l) Chevron Areas
Chevron markings are used to channel traffic. The white lines indicate the chevron area. No driving or parking of vehicles in the chevron area.
212
Bus Lanes
Vehicles other than omnibuses, bicycles, emergency service and police vehicles must avoid using the bus lanes during restricted hours. Non-scheduled buses such as school and factory buses may use the bus lane. However, they are not allowed to stop, pick
up or let their passengers alight along bus lanes
213
(a) Normal Bus Lane
A continuous yellow line and a short horizontal line at intervals indicate a normal bus lane. No driving or parking of vehicles in the bus lane during the bus lane operational hours - Mondays to Fridays: 7.30am to 9.30am and 5.00pm to 8.00pm, except on Saturdays,
Sundays & Public Holidays. Vehicles can use the bus lane where there is a broken yellow line to turn into a side road or turn from a side road into the bus lane road.
214
(b) Full-Day Bus Lane
An additional red line marked parallel to the yellow line indicates a full-day bus lane. No driving or parking of vehicles in bus lane during the full-day bus lane operational hours - Mondays to
Saturdays: 7.30am to 11.00pm, except on Sundays & Public Holidays
215
(c) Bus Priority Box (also known as Mandatory Give-Way to Buses)
The section in yellow indicates a mandatory give-way to buses area. Slow down and watch out for buses pulling out of the bus bay. Stop before the give way line and give way to buses exiting the bus bay at the location.
216
(d) Enhanced Chevron Zone at Bus-Stop Separator
Bus-stop separator areas are painted red to alert motorists of the presence of merging vehicles from bus-stops. No driving or parking of vehicles in the enhanced chevron zone.
217
(a) Zig-Zag Lines by Side of the Road
Zig-zag lines by the side of the road give advance
warning of the presence of a Pedestrian Crossing.
The white zig-zag lines indicate no stopping at all
times on this road. Vehicles should not overtake,
or wait in the vicinity. Pedestrians are also
prohibited from crossing at the zig-zag areas
218
(b) Right-Turn Pocket
Vehicles turning right at road junctions should stay within the pocket until it is clear to complete the turn.
219
(c) Traffic Calming Markings
A series of triangular markings of the side of the road to create a visually narrowed road to encourage motorists to slow down.
220
(d) Dashed Pedestrian Crossing Lines
These lines provide better contrast of the
pedestrian crossing lines with the stop line to
better demarcate the crossing area for
pedestrians. Motorists should comply with the
stop line for pedestrians to cross.
221
(e) Pedestrian Crossing Ahead Markings
These markings warn motorists of Zebra Crossing ahead. Motorists should watch out and give way to pedestrians.
222
DIRECTION ARROWS
You should only proceed in the directions shown by the arrows.
223
MERGING ARROW MARKINGS
Merging arrows are drawn on the road to give motorists advance warning that two traffic lanes are merging into one traffic lane.
Alternate vehicles from the two lanes have the right-of-way into the single lane.
224
Traffic Lights Red
RED
Means “STOP”.
ALL RED
Some junctions have an ALL RED period for safety or for pedestrians to cross. This means that all
the approaches are simultaneously showing the red signals. Do not start to move until the green
light appears in your favour.
225
Traffic lights Amber
AMBER
Means “STOP” unless you are so close to the stop-line when the lights turn AMBER that you
cannot stop safely.
FLASHING AMBER
Means that the traffic light signals are out of order. Proceed with caution. Give way to traffic on
the right.
226
Traffic light Green
Means “GO”.
| Look to the right and left to ensure it is safe before you proceed.
227
GREEN ARROW
Means “GO” but only in the direction indicated after ensuring that oncoming traffic is clear.
228
FLICKERING GREEN ARROW
Means signal is about to be cancelled. Do not proceed if you have not crossed the stop-line.
229
GREEN ‘B’
Means “GO” for all buses only. This is to allow them to move out of a bus-bay or a side lane and
proceed ahead of other vehicles.
230
ADVANCED WARNING LIGHTS
A signal with two “flashing amber” lights, “light signals ahead” sign and a blue “prepare to stop”
sign. It is erected before bends where visibility of the traffic light ahead is unsatisfactory. Vehicles
should slow down and be prepared to stop.
231
GREEN ARROW
Means “GO” in the
direction indicated.
(Turn right)
232
AMBER ARROW
Means “READY TO
STOP” behind the
stop-line in the
direction indicated.
233
RED ARROW
```
Means “STOP” behind the
stop-line in the direction
indicated. (Do not turn right
even when there is no traffic
from the opposite direction)
```
234
Green light and green arrow in the same direction
```
Means “GO” for
straight ahead
vehicles and “GO”
for right turn
vehicles.
```
235
Green light and orange arrow in different direction, orange arrow in the middle
```
Means “GO” for straight
ahead vehicles only.
Vehicles turning right
must get ready to
“STOP”.
```
236
Green ight and red arrow in different direction, red in the top
Means “GO” for straight
ahead vehicles only.
Vehicles turning right must
stop behind the stop line.
237
Signal (on the road)
Road Studs in the Day
| Road Studs at Night
238
Intelligent Road Stud
Blinking devices that are activated when the green man signal comes on. Turning vehicles should watch out and give way to pedestrians crossing the road.
239
SIGNALS GIVEN BY A POLICE OFFICER
Signals given by Police Officers directing traffic take precedence over those conveyed by road signs, traffic light signals, road markings and traffic regulations.
240
Police officer stand towards you straight with 2 arms like a U shape
Vehicles approaching Police Officer from all directions to stop.
241
Police officer stand straight with arms by his side
(b)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from front and behind to
stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her right and left may proceed.
242
Police officer stand straight with 1 arm by his side and 1 palm stopping the left side
(c)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from his/her right, front
and behind to stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her left may proceed.
243
Police officer stand straight with 1 arm on his right and other arm pointing out to the left side
(d)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from front and
behind to stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her right may proceed.
Vehicles approaching from his/her left be ready to stop
- signal is about to change.
244
Police officer stand straight with 1 arm straight out to his right and other arm stopping his left
(e)
(i) Vehicles approaching Police Officer from his/her
left, front and behind to stop.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from his/her right be ready
to stop. Signal is about to change.
245
Police officer stand straight with right arm close to his body and other arm stopping his left
(f)
(i) Right-turning vehicles in front of Police Officer
may proceed.
(ii) Vehicles approaching from all other directions to
stop.
246
HAND SIGNALS
```
Before you:
(a) Turn or move towards the right/left;
(b) Stop or slow down;
(c) Pull out from a parking place; or
(d) Pull out to pass,
give a clear signal and in good time to let other road users know your intention
```
247
Car with driver with arm pointing straight to the right
Motorcyclist with arm pointing straight to the right
Cyclist with arm pointing straight to the right
I intend to move out to the right or turn right
248
Car driver rotate his arm
I intend to move in to the left or turn left
249
Car driver move his arm up and down
I intend to slow down
250
Car driver place the back of his hand facing the back
I intend to stop
251
The KEEP-LEFT RULE
When driving along two-way streets, keep well to the left and as near as practicable to the boundary of the road, except when you intend to overtake or turn right. Do not hog the middle of the road. This applies to dual-carriageways as well.
You must not cross the centre line at bends, near the crest of a rise or anywhere else where you cannot clearly see the road ahead.
Sometimes your path of travel may be obstructed by road works, parked vehicles etc. In such circumstances, to avoid the
obstruction, take extra care to ensure that your intended path is safe and clear before you move to the right. You may cross the
centre line if the roads are narrow.
252
Lane discipline
You must obey the directions indicated by arrows marked in the lanes. You must not change lanes suddenly as you may inconvenience or endanger other motorists. When changing lanes, give sufficient warning of your intention. Always
signal in advance. Failure to do so could cause an accident.
65 In traffic hold-ups, do not “jump the queue”. Trying to get ahead of others by squeezing between lanes and overtaking recklessly is courting disaster. Always be patient and have consideration for other road users.
66 Well before you reach a junction, make sure that you get into the correct lane for whichever direction you wish to take.
67 On a two-lane carriageway, keep to the lefthand lane except when overtaking.
68 On a three-lane carriageway, you may keep to the centre lane when the left-hand lane is occupied by slower moving vehicles. The outer (right-hand) lane is for overtaking and emergency vehicles only.
253
Overtaking
Never overtake unless you can do so without endangering yourself or others. Be especially careful at night, and in heavy rain and mist. When visibility is poor, it becomes more difficult to judge speed and distance.
Always overtake on the right. There are, however, a few exceptions to this rule when you can overtake on the left:
(a) When the driver in front has signalled his/her intention to turn right.
(b) When you want to turn left at a junction.
(c) When traffic is moving slowly in queues and vehicles in the lanes on your right are moving more slowly than you are.
(d) On one-way streets (but not dual-carriageways) where vehicles may pass on either side.
After overtaking, return to the appropriate lane on the road as soon as it is safe to do so, but do not cut in sharply in front of the vehicle you have just overtaken.
Do not overtake when you are at, or when you are approaching:
(a) A pedestrian crossing.
(b) A road junction.
(c) A corner or bend.
(d) The brow of a hill.
(e) Double white lines.
73 Do not overtake:
(a) Where the road narrows.
(b) If it would force another vehicle to swerve or reduce speed.
(c) If in doubt.
74 Do not increase your speed while being overtaken. Slow down if necessary to let the overtaking vehicle pass.
75 In the following cases, overtaking is dangerous and should not be attempted:
(a) When the car in front of you is about to overtake the car in front of it.
(b) When the car in front is changing from the left to the right lane in order to make a right turn.
(c) When you have to get into the path of oncoming traffic in order to overtake.
254
The 12 steps of overtaking
```
1 CHECK TRAFFIC AHEAD
2 CHECK TRAFFIC BEHIND
3 SIGNAL RIGHT
4 CHECK BLIND SPOT
5 MOVE RIGHT
6 ACCELERATE
7 TAP HORN (if necessary)
8 CHECK MIRROR
9 SIGNAL LEFT
10 MOVE LEFT
11 CANCEL SIGNAL
12 RESUME NORMAL SPEED
```
255
Road hogging
Road-Hogging is driving at an unreasonably slow speed on the road especially on the right-hand or along the centre of the road.
Road-Hogging hinders the flow of traffic behind and may cause other vehicles to pass dangerously on the left.
Motorists who travel at a slow speed should keep to the left side of the road; this applies especially to small capacity motorcycles, goods vehicles
and lorries. You should only use the right hand lane when overtaking or when you are about to turn right or make a U-turn.
256
SPEED LIMITS
Unless otherwise stated, the speed limit of all roads in Singapore is 50 km/h. Do not exceed the speed limit of your vehicle or the road, whichever is the lesser.
79 Always obey the “Reduce Speed Now” sign.
257
THE ‘GIVE WAY’ RULE AT ROAD JUNCTIONS
When approaching a junction with a major road, slow down gradually and give way to traffic on the major road. Where there is a “STOP” sign, stop before the stop-line.
81 At an uncontrolled junction where there are no traffic lights, “GIVE WAY” sign or “STOP” sign:
(a) If you are going straight across the junction, you must give way to traffic going straight from the right.
(b) If you are turning right, you must give way to traffic going straight from all directions, as well as traffic turning right from the right and traffic turning left from the opposite direction.
(c) If you are turning left, you must give way to traffic going straight from the right
258
Junction
At a junction, look right, then left, then right again. Do not proceed until you are sure that it is safe to do so. Do not rely on signals to go ahead given by unauthorised persons.
83 Well before you turn right at a junction, take full account of the position and movement of traffic behind you. When it is safe to do so, signal your intention and take up a position just left of the middle of a two-way street or to the extreme right lane of a oneway street.
Wait there until there is a safe distance between you and any approaching vehicle before you complete your turn.
84 When turning right into a two-way street, turn into the lane just left of the centre line of the road you are turning into.
85 When turning right into a one-way street, turn into the extreme right lane of the road you are turning into.
86 If you intend to turn left, keep to the left, signal in good time, and do not swing out to the right before or after making the turn.
87 When a vehicle turns, the rear nearside wheel tends to pull closer to the kerb. So when making a turn, take special care not to brush against pedestrians, bicycles or motorcycles.
259
Roundabouts
Slow down when approaching a roundabout and give way to traffic on your right.
89 The general rule is that:
(a) traffic from lane A as in the illustration goes to ‘A’.
(b) traffic from lane B goes to ‘B’.
(c) traffic from lane C goes to ‘C’.
REMEMBER - Traffic coming from your right takes priority over you.
Rules for Motorists
You must always give way to traffic approaching from your right. You are advised to exercise caution at all times, and decide as
early as possible which exit you need to take. Take note of and act on all the information available to you from traffic signs, traffic
lights and road markings that direct you into the correct lane. Always remember that you have to:-
(a) Give clear signals showing your intention in good time;
(b) Obey the right-hand rule;
(c) Not inconvenience other drivers;
(d) Use your mirror intelligently to see that you do not obstruct the path of vehicles behind you; and
(e) Show consideration to other road users in the interest of road safety.
260
Driving on Expressways
REMEMBER - Traffic coming from your right takes priority over you.
Rules for Motorists
You must always give way to traffic approaching from your right. You are advised to exercise caution at all times, and decide as early as possible which exit you need to take. Take note of and act on all the information available to you from traffic signs, traffic
lights and road markings that direct you into the correct lane.
Always remember that you have to:-
(a) Give clear signals showing your intention in good time;
(b) Obey the right-hand rule;
(c) Not inconvenience other drivers;
(d) Use your mirror intelligently to see that you do not obstruct the path of vehicles behind you; and
(e) Show consideration to other road users in the interest of road safety.
261
Yellow box junctions
It is an offence for any driver to drive his/her vehicle into a junction marked with a yellow box and cause obstruction even if the lights are in his/her favour. However, there are certain situations in which a driver or rider will not be penalised for entering the
yellow-box junction.
262
(a) situation one
The first is when the turning vehicles in a box-junction do not block other vehicles. Only drivers of turning vehicles A, B and C and NOT those marked X may enter the yellow box when their exit lanes from it are blocked by other vehicles.
Should the traffic lights change to red, vehicles A, B and C would not cause any obstruction to other vehicles. However, vehicles marked X would be obstructing traffic should the lights change and the drivers will be penalised, as such they should wait behind the stop-line at
‘Y’.
263
(b) Situation two
The second situation is when motorists are waiting in the yellow box while trying to turn right in the face of oncoming traffic.
Drivers of vehicles marked A, B and C can remain in the box until a suitable opportunity arises for them to complete their turns.
Should the lights turn red against them, they should proceed to complete their turn and clear the yellow box junction.
264
(c) situation 3
The third situation is when motorists are waiting in a yellow box junction while making left or right turns because of pedestrians crossing the road.
The diagram shows that the drivers of vehicles A, B, C, D and E may enter the yellow box even when they are
prevented from executing their turns by pedestrians using the crossings.
265
U-turns
Do not make a U-turn at any road
intersection, junction or any opening in a
road divider except where a U-turn sign is
located.
Always negotiate a U-turn carefully,
especially if roadside trees or hedges are
obstructing your view of oncoming traffic.
As you turn, be alert for any vehicles,
especially motorcycles, which may be
turning together with you on your right.
266
Stopping and Parking
Do not park or let your vehicle wait:
(a) At a bend, the brow of a hill or a bridge.
(b) On a footway or cycle track.
(c) Near traffic lights or pedestrian
crossings.
(d) On a main road or on a road carrying fast
moving traffic.
(e) Opposite or nearly opposite another
stationary vehicle across the road, or
other obstructions (eg. road repairs).
(f) Abreast of another vehicle.
(g) Within 6 metres (20 feet) of an intersection or junction of any road or street (as shown in the diagram below).
(h) Within 9 metres (30 feet) of a bus stop (from the edge of a yellow demarcated box or from the tip of a bus bay except when
the vehicle breaks down owing to a defect in the vehicle or its tyres).
(i) Within 3 meters (10 feet) on either side of fire hydrant.
(j) Where it will obstruct any entrance.
(k) Facing oncoming traffic.
(l) Along any slip road.
(m) On a flyover, underpass or ramp leading to a
flyover or underpass.
(n) On a grass verge or on a road shoulder.
(o) In any bus lane.
(p) In any designated taxi stop (except taxis).
(q) In any taxi stand (except taxis).
(r) In any bus terminus (except omnibuses).
(s) Within “No Waiting” zone
(t) Within “No Stopping” zone
267
STOPPING AND PARKING
Before opening a door of a vehicle, make sure that it will not endanger or inconvenience anybody on the road or foot-path.
Get out on the side nearest to the kerb whenever it is possible.
98 When you have to stop, pull in as close as possible to the edge of the road.
99 Whenever you park, remember to:
(a) Turn off the engine and engage the hand-brake.
(b) Put your car into reverse gear if facing downhill and into low gear if facing uphill.
(c) Remove the ignition key.
(d) Lock the steering mechanism or activate the burglar alarm if your car is fitted with one.
(e) Wind up the windows and lock the doors.
(f) Keep your valuables in the boot or in a place where they cannot be seen.
100 Remember that you are not allowed to leave any broken-down or wrecked vehicle on any public road. If your vehicle breaks down on the road, push it into a break-down bay or as close to the side of the road as possible.
Switch on the hazard warning lights even during daylight and place a reflective warning triangle at least 20 metres behind the vehicle. Arrange for it to be towed away immediately so as not to cause obstruction to the flow of traffic.
268
Seat belts
All persons travelling in vehicles, irrespective of their age, should be appropriately belted up. Adults below the height of 1.35m shall use booster seats or approved adjustable seat belts to lower the risk of injury in the event of an accident.
102 A composition fine of $120 and 3 demerit points will be awarded for failing to belt up
269
Lights
At night (between 7.00pm and 7.00am) you must drive with your headlights on.
104 At night always drive well within the limits of your
headlights. Beware of pedestrians standing on the central divider because it is difficult to see them when dazzled by the lights of oncoming vehicles.
105 Use dipped headlights at night in built-up areas and during rainy weather
106 On unlit roads always use your high beam. Dip your headlights when meeting other vehicles and cyclists. If you are dazzled by the lights of another vehicle, slow down and stop if necessary.
107 Dip your headlights when driving behind other vehicles.
270
Lights part 2
In the daytime whenever visibility is poor or if it is raining, switch on your headlights. This is to enable other road users to see your vehicle.
Switching on your headlights will not in any way affect your fuel consumption.
109 It is advisable when parking in unlit or poorly lit roads at night to leave your side or parking lights on.
110 Try not to look directly at the headlights of oncoming vehicles but direct your vision slightly to the left. This technique can save you from momentary blindness.
111 Always keep a look-out for flashes from the brake lights of vehicles in front.
112 When approaching a curve or intersection with poor visibility, it is a good idea to flash your headlights to let pedestrians and oncoming cyclists and motorists know that you are heading into the curve or intersection.
113 It is unsafe to drive with the interior lights on as they reduce your external visibility. Motorcyclists are required to switch on their headlights throughout the day.
271
Alcohol
Alcohol, when even a small quantity has been consumed, makes you less safe on the roads. The safe rule is IF YOU DRINK, DON’T DRIVE. The same applies to drugs even when taken medicinally.
115 The prescribed legal limit for blood alcohol content is 80 milligrammes (mg) of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of blood while that for breath is 35 microgrammes (ug) of alcohol per 100 millilitres (ml) of breath.
Any person caught driving with blood or breath alcohol content which exceeds the prescribed limit will be charged in court for drink driving. A person can also be charged for drink driving even when the blood or breath alcohol content is below the legal limit if there is evidence to show that he/she was unable to control the vehicle because of alcoholic intoxication. The penalty for drink driving is a fine of between $1,000 and
$5,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months. There is also a mandatory 1-year disqualification in respect of the offender’s driving licence. A repeat offender will face a mandatory jail sentence not exceeding 1 year.
272
Light goods vehicle
All lorries used for carrying workers on the carriage deck must be fitted with canopies and higher side railings.
117 The load on any vehicle on a road should always be securely fastened.
118 The front passenger seat(s) in the lorry’s cabin must be occupied before workers can be carried on the rear carriage deck.
119 Lorry owners who wish to use their lorries to carry their workers must display a Maximum Passenger Capacity (MPC) label on the right side of the lorry’s rear tailboard indicating the maximum number of workers that can be transported when the carriage
deck is empty.
120 For safety, when workers are carried in lorries, they should be made to sit down properly and the maximum allowable height of a seated worker shall not be more than 1.1 metres measured from the carriage deck.
121 The vehicle must not carry an excess number of workers based on the minimum deck space requirement of 0.372 square metres
(or 4 square feet) per seated worker. If goods or equipment are also transported, the number of workers that may be carried is to be reduced according to the remaining floor area available.
122 When transporting workers on the carriage deck, the vehicle must not travel faster than the posted road speed limit or the vehicle
speed limit of 60 km/h, whichever is lower.
273
Height limits
Anyone who drives a vehicle with overall height exceeding 4.5m without police escort is committing an offence.
Avoid collision with an overhead structure in 4 steps
(a) Ensure vehicle height is less than 4.5m. Apply for a police escort if vehicle height exceeds 4.5m.
(b) Plan your route before driving off.
(c) Obey speed and height limits.
(d) Stop and seek alternative route if you:
(i) are diverted from your original route
(ii) are lost
(iii) realise that your route is obstructed by a road structure lower than your vehicle’s height during your journey.
274
USE OF MOBILE COMMUNICATION DEVICE WHILE DRIVING
It is an offence to use a mobile communication devices [including mobile telephone and any hand held devices (e.g. tablets, walkie-talkies, handheld gaming consoles, etc) which are designed or capable of being used for a communicative function) when
driving.
Should you need to use the mobile communication device while driving, you should drive to a safe place such as a carpark and use it when you are stationary. Communicative function, in this context, refers to any of the following functions:
(a) Sending or receiving oral or written messages;
(b) Sending or receiving electronic documents;
(c) Sending or receiving still or moving images;
(d) Sending or receiving audio or video files; and
(e) Providing access to the internet
125 Any driver caught using a mobile communication device whilst driving will be charged in court. The penalty for this offence is a fine not exceeding $1,000 or imprisonment not exceeding 6 months, or both. The offender’s driving licence is also likely to be
disqualified.
126 Typical scenarios of using a mobile communication device while driving includes driving with one hand holding a mobile communication device and communicating with another person on that device while the vehicle is in motion; texting with a mobile communication device, dialling a phone number or pressing a button to receive a call while holding the mobile communication device are also against the law. Using hands free devices, such as wireless or wired headsets, is acceptable unless the driver is holding on to the mobile communication device while using the hands free device while the vehicle is in motion.
In short, an offence is committed if the driver satisfies all the 3 conditions below:
(a) At least one hand is holding a mobile communication device; and
(b) Driver is using any function of the mobile communication device; and
(c) The motor vehicle is in motion.
275
Moving off
Before you move off, fasten your seat belt and look in the mirrors. Give the proper signal, look around to check on traffic and pedestrians. Move off only when you can do so safely and without causing inconvenience to other road users. Give way to passing
and overtaking vehicles.
276
Mirrors and Signals
Mirrors should be checked before moving off, slowing down, stopping, changing lane, overtaking and making any turn. You should also cultivate the habit of checking the mirrors every 5 to 10 seconds while driving along.
The areas on the right and left of your vehicle which cannot be viewed in your mirrors are known as “blind spots”. You have to turn your head and look over your shoulder to the left or the right to check for traffic in the “blind spots” before changing lane, overtaking, turning and stopping.
Always give clear signals well in advance of your intentions (at least 3 seconds) before your manoeuvre so that other road users can interact safely.
277
Driving along
Constantly adjust your speed to the conditions of the road on which you are travelling. Such adjustment will enable you to stop in any emergency without skidding or losing control of your vehicle.
A good driver automatically reduces speed when:
(a) Entering a built-up area.
(b) Approaching a school or a stationary bus with children alighting from or boarding it.
(c) Travelling on narrow winding roads.
(d) Approaching children who are playing.
(e) Approaching a bend, brow of a hill, or other obstruction that limits his/her view.
(f) The road surface is wet.
278
Tailgating
Tailgating, or following too closely behind another vehicle is a dangerous practice. If the vehicle in front stops suddenly, an accident is inevitable since you will not be able to stop in time. Tailgating also makes the driver in front nervous and can cause
him/her to be involved in an accident.
279
Safe following distance
To be able to stop with an appropriate space between your vehicle and the vehicle in front, you must allow at least one car length for every 16km/h of your speed.
280
THE ‘TWO-SECOND’ RULE
A simple way to ensure a safe gap between you and the vehicle in front is to use the ‘two-second’ rule. As the vehicle in front of you passes a stationary object, such as a lamp post on the side of the road, start counting to yourself ‘one-thousand-and-one, one
thousand-and-two’. This will take you 2 seconds. If you reach the same spot before you finish these eight words, you are following too closely and it is necessary to slow down. This rule will keep you at a safe following distance and will apply to all types of
vehicles at any speed.
Always watch for the brake lights of the car immediately in front and the traffic ahead of the car in front.
281
Stopping distance
It takes a longer distance to stop a moving vehicle than most people think. It is therefore prudent to study the chart below and remember that your stopping distance is approximately the sum of your reaction distance and braking distance. These distances
will increase with the driving speeds of your vehicle
The braking distance will also increase when the road is wet, or if the tyre treads are worn, or when the car is fully loaded. Reaction time will also increase if a driver is tired or if he/she has consumed alcohol.
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Reversing
Before you reverse, make sure that there are no children or other pedestrians or obstructions in the blind areas behind you.
Do not reverse from a side road/minor road into a main road.
If your view to the rear is restricted, get help when reversing
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SAFETY OF PEDESTRIANS AND CYCLISTS
Pedestrians have the right-of-way at Pedestrian Crossings.
143 When approaching a pedestrian crossing, slow down and do not overtake other vehicles.
144 When approaching a pedestrian crossing, ALWAYS –
(a) be ready to slow down or stop so as to give way to pedestrians;
(b) signal to other drivers your intention to slow down or stop;
(c) allow yourself more time to stop when the road is wet.
145 At a pedestrian crossing controlled by traffic signals or by a policeman, give way to pedestrians who are still crossing even when
the signal allows vehicles to move.
146 Stop, when signalled to do so by a school patrol warden showing a “STOP-Children” sign.
147 Watch for pedestrians who come out suddenly from behind stationary vehicles and other obstructions. Be very careful near schools
and bus stops.
148 Pedestrians using rural roads tend to be less “road-wise”. Watch out for them.
149 When you are passing a pedestrian or cyclist, always maintain as wide a distance from him/her as possible and drive slowly.
150 When driving across a muddy section of the road or through a puddle, you should slow down to avoid splashing muddy water
onto pedestrians.
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Emergency vehicles
Ambulances ferry the sick and injured to hospitals. Fire Engines help put out fires, and Police Vehicles carry police personnel whose presence is much needed in an emergency.
Obstructing the passage of any such vehicle could mean the difference between life and death for someone, somewhere. If you encounter any of them on the road with sirens and/or seeing the flashing beacon
lights, give way by pulling in to the left or right side of the road depending on the circumstances.
DO
(a) Pull to the nearest edge of the roadway and come to a complete stop if necessary, until all emergency vehicles have passed.
(b) Be alert to the approach of an emergency vehicle.
(c) Switch on your direction signal when pulling off the road. This sends a message to the emergency vehicle operator that the driver is aware of his/her presence.
DO NOT
(a) Block any intersection (even when attempting to give way to an emergency vehicle), as it is dangerous.
(b) Follow closely behind an emergency vehicle responding to an emergency.
(c) Stop on a bridge, curve or crest of a hill; instead, switch on your directional signal and proceed forward until you can safely
pull over and come to a complete stop.
(d) Slam on your brakes or stop directly in front of an emergency vehicle.
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General Safe driving
When you are driving, keep your attention on the road ahead, except for necessary and frequent glances at the rear view mirror, wing mirrors and panel of the car. Do not turn your head to talk to your passengers or to light a cigarette. Children should not be
allowed to obstruct or distract the driver and parents should train them not to do so.
Be careful when driving on steel plates laid on unfinished roadworks because these are extremely slippery, especially when they are wet.
Avoid driving through floods as there is a danger that brake malfunction may subsequently occur. If unavoidable, pump the brake
pedal repeatedly after emerging from flood waters so as to dry the brakes.
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HOW TO REACT TO ANIMALS CROSSING THE ROAD
Slow down when driving next to nature areas, and where wildlife crossings are indicated.
Be alert and slow down if you see any animals crossing the road ahead of you.
Be extra cautious at dawn and dusk as this is the peak period for animal movements.
Scan the road shoulders ahead of you. Look for reflecting eyes or animals walking along the side of the road.
Even though animals may be walking along the side of the road as your vehicle approaches, they may panic and attempt to flee by crossing the road. Slow down as you approach.
If collision with the animal is unavoidable, apply the brakes firmly and remain in your lane.
If you have a collision with an animal and it is causing an obstruction to other road users; you are required to stop your vehicle, turn on your hazard light and notify the Traffic Police at 999.
Refrain from touching or moving the injured animal unless you are confident to do so; as it may still be able to defend itself. In the event you are able to move the animal place it at the road shoulder or grass verge ensuring it does not cause any further obstruction to road users. Update Traffic Police at 999 once you have successfully moved the animal.
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Driving along
Adjust your speed to the speed of the traffic around you so as not to slow down traffic behind you (road hogging). Even when you are driving on the left hand side of the roadway, do not drive slowly at below 15km/h of the stipulated speed limits of the
road.
It is courteous to give the right-of-way to others when circumstances permit.
When right-of-way is given to you, it is gracious to show a ‘thank you’ hand gesture.
When driving in countries with left-hand drive vehicles, do familiarise yourself with the traffic rules and regulations by reading up on the Highway Code of that country. New drivers are to gradually familiarise themselves with the road conditions in countries with Left Hand Drive if they plan to drive in those countries.
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Signaling
Give appropriate signals early to allow others to act on them in time.
Cancel your signals when they are not in use so as not to confuse others
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Use of Horn
Sound the horn only to warn other road users of dangers such as a likely collision.
Do not use the horn to express anger or frustration.
Do not use the horn to demand the right-of-way or bull doze your way through crowded places.
Sounding your horn when driving is unnecessary, except as a warning. In some areas e.g. near a school or hospital, it is an offence to use the horn, except to avoid an accident.
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Lane Discipline
Keep to the left of the road and leave the other lanes for other faster moving vehicles to pass safely.
Keep within your lane. It is inconsiderate to straddle lanes as this would obstruct other vehicles and may lead to traffic being held up.
Do not weave in and out of traffic lanes as it would cause confusion and danger to others.
Cutting into the path of other vehicles is discourteous/inconsiderate and likely to cause an accident and road rage.
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At road junctions
Move into the correct lane early at road junctions to let others know your intended direction of travel.
When making right turns, position your vehicle properly so that it does not hinder oncoming vehicles.
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In traffic queues
Stay in queue during traffic hold-ups. Do not jump queue. Jumping queue is discourteous/inconsiderate and would aggravate the traffic jam.
Leave a gap at the junction to a side road to enable vehicles from the opposite direction to turn right as well as for vehicles from the side road to move out.
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Overtaking
Overtake only when it is absolutely necessary.
Overtake only when you are sure that there are no other vehicles attempting to pass or overtake you.
Slow down and keep left when being overtaken to allow the overtaking vehicle to pass quickly.
Accelerating when others are trying to overtake you is unsafe and discourteous.
Cutting into the path of another vehicle after overtaking it is discourteous and likely to anger the driver and cause an accident.
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Following distance
Keep a safe following distance from the vehicle in front so as to allow yourself enough room to stop safely should the vehicle in front stop abruptly.
Do not harass the vehicle in front by tailgating it. This is a dangerous practice which could easily lead to an accident.
Flashing your headlights or blasting the horn at slower moving vehicles in front of you is rude.
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Stopping and Parking
Always stop or park close to the edge of the road.
Always stop or park at places where you would not cause any inconvenience to other road users.
Do not stop your vehicle under a shaded spot which is at a distance from a junction while waiting for the traffic signal to change. This is a selfish act and slows down traffic at the junction.
When parking your vehicle in a parking lot, be considerate by parking your vehicle parallel to and in the centre of the lot.
Wait for your turn when looking for a parking lot. It is rude to jump queue or force your way into a lot when another vehicle is trying to get into the parking lot.
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Lights
Do not drive if your vehicle’s headlamps, tail-lamps and/or direction indicators are not working.
Dip your headlights when following other vehicles or when facing oncoming vehicles, so as to prevent dazzling the drivers of other vehicles.
In the daytime when visibility is poor, you should turn on the headlights so that you can see and be seen more easily.
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PEDESTRIANS (ESPECIALLY THE YOUNG AND ELDERLY), CYCLISTS AND MOTORCYCLISTS
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Give pedestrians (especially the young and elderly), cyclists and motorcyclists plenty of room from your vehicle as they might
change direction suddenly.
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Do not sound the horn when you are close to pedestrians as you might scare and cause them to react irrationally, resulting in
an accident.
Do not obstruct pedestrians by stopping on the pedestrian crossing.
On wet roads, slow down when you are near pedestrians and cyclists so as not to splash them with water from the road.
It is not safe to pass a cyclist, be patient and wait until it is safe. This should not hold you up for long and it may save the cyclist’s life.
If a cyclist is ahead of you and you want to turn, turn behind the cyclist. Overtaking and cutting off the cyclist is very dangerous. If and when you do need to overtake cyclists, always ensure that there is ample room from your vehicle when
overtaking (this is especially so for drivers of heavy or large vehicles), and do not merge sharply into lanes.
Always check your blind spot before changing lanes, making turns or moving from a stationary position.
Always check for cyclists before opening the vehicle door.
Signal early to inform other road users and cyclists of the direction in which you are heading.
When approaching road crossings, look out for cyclists and pedestrians.
Always stop to render assistance and exchange particulars when involved in an accident.
Do not expect cyclists to cycle all the way to the left next to the kerb, because their pedals may hit the kerb and there are usually drain holes at the side where their tyres could get stuck in and cyclist could lose balance.
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Patience
Always be patient. Do not rush or lose your cool on the road.
It is not gracious to show any provocative gesture when other drivers do something wrong or cause inconvenience to you. No
one would deliberately get himself/herself involved in an accident.
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TO ERR IS HUMAN; APOLOGISE AND FORGIVE
Indicate that you are sorry when you have caused inconvenience to others. This will soothe the other driver.
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Safe/Defensive driving technique:
SAFE DRIVING TECHNIQUE (DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUE)
Driving safely and competently demands the total involvement of most of your senses. It is not enough to gain physical mastery of the vehicle without cultivating an awareness of the environment. A good driver can interpret, anticipate and act unhesitatingly under adverse driving conditions.
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Adverse conditions include:
SAFE DRIVING TECHNIQUE (DEFENSIVE DRIVING TECHNIQUE)
(a) Driver conditions
(b) Weather conditions
(c) Light conditions
(d) Road conditions
(e) Traffic conditions
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Driven Conditions
Your physical and mental condition can affect your driving. These conditions are:
(a) Your vision,
(b) Your physical health,
(c) Your mental state,
(d) Consumption of alcohol and drug
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Eighty percent (80%) of information perceived while driving comes through the driver’s eyes. It is therefore important that you make optimal use of your eyes when driving.
Do not fix your eyes on a particular object for longer than necessary. Keep moving your eyes about every two seconds or so. Also, take regular glances at the rear view mirrors every five to ten seconds so that you
are aware of the changing situation around you. As the vehicle speed increases, your field of vision would be reduced.
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Tiredness, giddiness and being unwell can affect your concentration on the road. If you feel unwell or tired, do not drive.
Anger, worry and stress can also reduce concentration and may lead to rash or careless driving on the road.
Consumption of alcohol and certain types of drugs affect your judgement, concentration and reaction time. If you are on medication, check with your doctor whether the prescribed medicine you are taking will affect your driving ability. If so, do not
drive. It is also unsafe for you to drive if you have consumed alcohol.
It is an offence for a person to drive or attempt to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. If a driver is suspected to be under the influence of alcohol, he/she will be required to undergo a breath analyser test. A person with a BAC (BlooAlcohol
Concentration) exceeding 80mg per 100ml of blood is presumed incapable of controlling his/her vehicle properly.
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Weather conditions
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Adverse weather conditions affect your ability to see and be seen.
These conditions are:-
Rain
Flood
Strong winds
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The basic rules to follow when driving in bad weather conditions are:
Reduce your speed so that you can manoeuvre safely.
Do not out-drive the actual distance that you can see clearly.
Switch on your headlights so that you can see more clearly and be more visible.
Turn on the demister to clear the mist on the windscreen.
Move to a safe spot and stop at the side of the road with your hazard lights turned on if you cannot see clearly. Proceed when conditions are favourable.
Use a faster front windscreen wiper speed when driving in heavy rain.
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On a wet road
On a wet road, the stopping distance of a vehicle will increase to about twice the distance of that on a dry road. This is because there is less friction between the tyres and the wet road surface. On a wet road, stepping hard on the brake pedal (locking the wheels) will cause the vehicle to skid or spin. If you lock the wheels accidentally, quickly release the brake pedal and apply the intermittent (ON/OFF) braking technique until the vehicle comes to a stop. Thus, on a wet road, it is important that you drive at a slower speed to avoid such dangerous circumstances.
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Code of conduct on the road
On a rainy day, a thin layer of water forms on the road surface. Even good tyres may not have a good grip on the road. As speed increases, surface water
builds up under the vehicle’s tyres. When this happens, your vehicle will glide on the surface of the road, and this is known as ‘Aquaplaning’.
Aquaplaning results in the loss of steering control and braking efficiency.
The faster you go, the more difficult it will be to control the vehicle. To counter this, you should slow down by braking intermittently (on/off braking) until you gain control of your vehicle.
When approaching a road that is flooded but passable to vehicles, engage a lower gear to go through the flood
After passing through water, the brakes become ineffective. To dry the brakes, pump the brake pedal repeatedly until braking action returns.
You can also dry the brakes by gently depressing the brake pedal with your left foot while pressing the accelerator with the right foot.
At night, the depth of flood water can be deceptive. If in doubt, take an alternative route.
Stretches of open highways are usually subjected to strong winds. To avoid the danger of being forced into the path of other traffic by the wind, you should slow down and drive cautiously.
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Light conditions
Too much or too little light will affect our ability to see. Sun-glare or light reflected off objects or a pool of water on the road can dazzle and even blind our vision. You should wear sunglasses or lower the sun-visor when it is very bright.
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Light conditions
Switch on your headlights from 7pm to 7am. Drive at a slower speed than you would during the day.
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Light conditions
When the headlight of an oncoming vehicle dazzles you, look to your left to avoid the glare. Use the edge of the road to guide your vehicle. If the light is
blinding, slow down and stop by the side of the road.
