In a recent enforcement operation conducted by officers from the Traffic Police (TP) and the Land Transport Authority (LTA), a total of 26 cyclists were fined for breaching the rule on cycling group size. The operation took place from June 24 to July 8, as stated by TP and LTA in a joint statement released on Friday.
Understanding the Cycling Group Size Rule
Cyclists who ride in groups are required to adhere to the rule on group size to ensure the safety of all cyclists and road users.
According to the rule, cyclists riding in two rows are limited to a group of 10, while those riding in a single file are limited to a group of 5. Failure to comply with this rule can result in a fine of $150.
Increased Fine Amount and Other Offenses
The fine amount for cyclists who violate the rule on group size was increased to $150 starting from January 1, 2022. This amount is double the previous fine of $75.
Apart from breaching the group size rule, cyclists can also receive the same fine for other offenses, including beating the red light, riding on expressways, or riding abreast of another cyclist along single-lane roads and bus lanes during the bus lane operational hours.
Education Outreach and Safety Measures
In addition to issuing fines, the TP and LTA officers also conducted education outreach programs to raise awareness about cycling rules and guidelines.
These efforts are aimed at ensuring that cyclists understand and abide by the rules to promote their own safety and the safety of other road users.
Senior Assistant Commissioner Daniel Tan, the commander of TP, emphasized the importance of these enforcement operations, stating, “Cycling rules are put in place to ensure the safety of all cyclists and road users.” The TP has made it clear that they will continue to carry out enforcement operations against errant cyclists.
Guidelines for Cyclists
To promote safe cycling practices, TP and LTA have provided the following guidelines for cyclists:
- Obey all traffic signals and travel in the same direction as the flow of traffic.
- Wear a helmet when cycling on roads to protect yourself in case of accidents.
- Ride close to the far left edge of the road and allow traffic to overtake you safely.
- Cycle in a single file on single-lane roads and on bus lanes during operational hours.
- When riding in the dark, switch on a front-white light and a rear red light to enhance visibility.
- Utilize designated bicycle lanes when available instead of using other parts of the roadway.
- Avoid using mobile devices while cycling to maintain focus and minimize distractions.
- Refrain from cycling on expressways, road tunnels, or selected viaducts such as the Tuas viaduct.