In a concerning incident in Hougang, a 71-year-old man sustained injuries after trying to avoid a food delivery rider on a personal mobility device (PMD). The accident occurred on May 21, 2025, around 11 AM, in front of Block 106 Hougang Avenue 3, as reported by Shin Min Daily News.
Details of the Incident
The elderly man, identified as Mr. Lin, was working as a cleaner when he was startled by the sound of a delivery rider ringing their bell as they sped past him. His son, who is 41 years old and also named Mr. Lin, recounted that the sudden noise caused his father to panic. In an attempt to dodge the fast-moving rider, the elderly man slipped and fell, hitting his head on the kerb.
As a result of the fall, Mr. Lin suffered a significant injury, requiring eight stitches above his eyebrow. He sought immediate medical attention at a nearby clinic and was given three days of medical leave to recover from the shock and injuries.
Lack of Responsibility from the Rider
Disturbingly, the delivery rider did not stop to check on Mr. Lin after the accident. Instead, a passer-by came to assist the injured man. Mr. Lin’s son expressed his disappointment, suggesting that the rider may have assumed his father was not seriously hurt but should have stopped to ensure his well-being, especially considering his father’s age.
Concerns Over Safety in Busy Areas
The area where the incident occurred is known for heavy pedestrian traffic, particularly from delivery riders. Mr. Lin highlighted the dangers posed by fast-moving riders in a space frequented by elderly individuals. He urged delivery riders to be more mindful of pedestrians’ safety, especially in busy areas that include bus stops, coffee shops, and retail stores.
When reporters from Shin Min visited the location, they observed numerous cyclists and delivery riders navigating the area at high speeds, often using lights to signal their presence to pedestrians.
Conclusion
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers posed by fast-moving PMDs in crowded pedestrian areas. As the number of delivery riders continues to rise, it is crucial for both riders and pedestrians to exercise caution and awareness to prevent accidents. The call for greater responsibility among delivery riders and improved safety measures in busy areas is more pressing than ever to ensure the safety of all road users, particularly vulnerable populations like the elderly.
Image Source: Shin Min Daily News (Left), Singapore Uncensored Archive (right)