Measuring whether cycling enforcement changes behaviour and reduces accidents

Question:

Mr Yip Hon Weng: To ask the Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs given that the number of accidents involving cyclists rose despite regular enforcement (a) how does the Traffic Police measure whether cycling enforcement changes behaviour and reduces accidents; (b) how do results determine the frequency, duration and locations of enforcement operations; and (c) what outcome thresholds would trigger redesign of enforcement.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Senior Minister, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs:

1. The Traffic Police (TP) assesses the effectiveness of its enforcement efforts by monitoring accident and traffic violation patterns. This data is used to review TP’s enforcement approach. If accidents or violations persist or worsen, TP may step up enforcement or adjust the locations and timings of enforcement operations. The decisions are made after a holistic review and are not contingent on any fixed outcome threshold.

2. Beyond enforcement against errant cycling, TP works with the Land Transport Authority (LTA) on broader measures to improve road safety for all road users, such as road engineering measures to address identified safety risks, and public education campaigns for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians to step up the promotion of road safety and safe cycling practices.