Stompers slam 'stupid' new traffic light system, say it's causing more speeding and jams
Welcome to Stomping Ground - a space where Stompers share reflections, personal essays and social commentaries that spark conversation and insight.
"What makes drivers step on their pedals harder?"
That is the question posed by Stomper Yeung Pang, who feels that measures implemented to reduce accidents have resulted in more drivers speeding.
Yeung Peng, who wrote to the authorities a few months ago regarding his feedback, shared with Stomp his thoughts on the matter.
He said "Since 2024, I realised the waiting time for our traffic lights has extended. It has resulted in more traffic jams compared to the older timing.
"On top of this, the Traffic Police (TP) have added a 'no turning right' red arrow until the red arrow turns green, unlike the older traffic system whereby cars can turn right as long as there is no incoming traffic from the opposite direction.
"These new systems being implemented without drivers' feedback are not welcome at all. Why fix something that is not spoiled?
"Why is TP not finding out what triggers drivers to speed faster nowadays? The answer is simple: To catch up with lost time created by this unpopular new traffic light system.
"Now you can see why more than 45% of drivers were caught speeding in just the first half of this year. It's the system that makes them do it!
"Why is TP penalising every driver as a whole by delaying traffic just to accommodate poor, unskilled drivers?
"The solution is simple: Go back to the old system. Penalise drivers creating accidents with heavier fines and driving bans. Lesser drivers will speed. That should be the correct way."
In Nov 2024, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) responded to feedback about replacing discretionary right turns with Red-Amber-Green (RAG) arrows at signalised junctions to provide clearer guidance to motorists.
LTA said: "We have observed a 40% reduction in traffic accidents involving right turns at junctions with RAG arrows. We have also received feedback that road users feel safer at these junctions."
Yeung Peng is not alone in his strong views on the reduction in discretionary right-turn junctions.
The topic has sparked an interesting debate online, while another Stomper also echoed similar sentiments.
Stomper H said: "It's freaking stupid. It takes away the driver's ability to gauge and make judgement.
"I agree that it reduces accidents, but it also causes a lot of congestion on the road.
"I think it's better to implement programs that improve safety on the road than have a hard rule like this. Plus!!! When we drive overseas, we will be unsafe because we have no decision-making skills.
"Singaporeans already have no idea how to use a roundabout properly!"
But should the blame lie in the system or the drivers themselves?
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