Written Reply to Parliamentary Question on Percentage of Traffic Accidents Involving Drivers Aged 65 Years Old and Above in the Past Three Years

Question:

Mr Yip Hon Weng: To ask the Minister for Home Affairs (a) what is the percentage of traffic accidents involving drivers aged 65 years old and above in the past three years; (b) what vehicles and driving licences do these accidents typically involve; and (c) whether the Ministry will consider shortening the current revalidation cycle of three years as required by rule 4A(1) of the Road Traffic (Motor Vehicles, Driving Licences) Rules for motorcycles and light motor vehicles, especially for those who have a previous accident record.

Answer:

Mr K Shanmugam, Minister for Home Affairs and Minister for Law:

1.   Between 2019 and 2021, 16% of fatal accidents, and 16% of accidents with injuries, involved vehicle drivers and motorcycle riders aged 65 years or older. This proportion has remained stable over the recent years.

2.   Amongst these accidents, 69% involved motor cars, 17% involved motorcycles, and 14% involved other vehicles such as heavy vehicles.

3.   The current licence revalidation regime strikes a balance between road safety and providing senior citizens the convenience of driving, and for some, they require a licence for their livelihood as well. At this point, given that there is no deterioration in the road traffic situation due to elderly motorists, we do not see a need to shorten the current licence revalidation cycle for them.

4.   The Ministry will continue to monitor the situation, and review as necessary.