Woman Injured by PMD on Pasir Ris Overhead Bridge, Police Report Filed
A 49-year-old Singaporean woman was left bruised and shaken after being struck by a personal mobility device (PMD) while crossing an overhead bridge in Pasir Ris. The rider, believed to be in his 20s, reportedly rode off without stopping, even as she shouted at him and fell to the ground.
Ms Mel Yap, an accountant, was performing her regular Sunday morning walk on 13 July when the incident occurred just after 7am. She had been walking from Tampines to Pasir Ris with a friend when the pair encountered the rider on the 150-metre overhead bridge near Block 124, Pasir Ris Street 11, reported Zao Bao
According to Ms Yap, the rider came up from behind as they walked side by side across the narrow bridge. Instead of dismounting and pushing the PMD—as required under LTA regulations—he attempted to pass, brushing against her and causing her to fall backwards. As she tried to grab him, she fell forward instead. Despite her calls for him to stop, the rider continued on without offering help.
Scrapes, Bleeding & Medical Bills
Ms Yap sustained scrapes on her arms, elbows, and knees due to the rough, pebbled flooring. The most serious injury was to her right knee, which continued to bleed for over 12 hours following the fall. She spent about S$150 on treatment and was issued two days of medical leave.
Photos she shared online show the extent of her injuries, which she cleaned on her own before seeking further care. Posting on the Facebook group Complaint Singapore, she stated she would not pursue the matter further if the rider steps forward, apologises, and covers her medical costs.
Despite this, she has filed a police report, citing concerns about public safety and a need for accountability. She stressed that the bridge is a shared space and riders should act responsibly.
Residents Say Reckless Riding a Recurring Problem
Shin Min Daily News reporters who visited the area observed that PMD and bicycle riders frequently zoom across the bridge—approximately one every two to three minutes—without slowing down or yielding to pedestrians.
Several Pasir Ris residents echoed Ms Yap’s frustration. A 41-year-old man said he lives in fear of such encounters when walking with his children or elderly mother, who was also previously knocked over by a rider. “These people think they own the way,” he exclaimed.
Meanwhile, a 31-year-old construction worker was among the few seen pushing his bike across the bridge, stating that he always prioritises safety for himself and others.
Authorities Urged to Step Up Enforcement
The incident has once again put the spotlight on PMD misuse in pedestrian areas. Although Singapore has banned PMDs from footpaths since 2019, violations continue, especially among food delivery riders and couriers who use overhead bridges and sheltered walkways as shortcuts.
Ms Yap warned that had the victim been elderly, the outcome could have been far worse. Her case is a stark reminder of the importance of enforcing existing laws and educating riders on the risks of reckless behaviour.
With repeated complaints from the public, there is growing pressure on enforcement agencies to monitor such hotspots more closely and consider installing surveillance cameras or physical barriers to ensure compliance.