An early morning traffic accident along Orchard Road resulted in 13 people being taken to hospital after a lorry and a car were involved in a collision near one of Singapore’s busiest shopping stretches. The incident occurred outside the Apple store, a well-known landmark frequented by both locals and tourists, raising concerns about road safety during off-peak hours.
The Singapore Civil Defence Force said it was alerted to the accident at around 6.20am at the junction of Orchard Road and Orchard Link. Emergency responders were swiftly dispatched to the scene, where they found multiple injured individuals and visible damage to vehicles and street fixtures.
Videos circulating on social media platforms later showed the aftermath of the crash, with both the lorry and the car mounted on the pavement. The bonnets of both vehicles appeared badly damaged, and a public bench along the sidewalk had been knocked over, indicating the force of the impact.
Emergency Response and Hospital Conveyance
SCDF confirmed that a total of 13 people were conveyed to two hospitals for further medical treatment. Six casualties were taken to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, while seven others were brought to Singapore General Hospital. The authorities did not disclose the nature or severity of the injuries at the time of reporting.
In addition to those sent to hospital, five other individuals were assessed at the scene for minor injuries. These individuals declined further medical attention after being examined by paramedics. Police officers were also present to manage the situation and cordon off the affected area.
Commuters and pedestrians in the Orchard Road area experienced brief disruption as emergency services attended to the incident. The accident took place during the early morning hours, a period when delivery vehicles and service lorries are commonly seen along the shopping belt.
Questions Raised Over Road Safety in Orchard Area
While investigations are ongoing, the incident has once again highlighted safety concerns along Orchard Road, particularly during quieter hours when traffic conditions may encourage higher speeds. The presence of a heavy vehicle on the pavement has raised questions about how the collision unfolded and whether road conditions or driver behaviour played a role.
Orchard Road is not only a retail hub but also a pedestrian-heavy zone, with wide walkways, public seating, and frequent crossings. Even outside peak shopping hours, early morning joggers, workers, and tourists can be found in the area, increasing the potential risk when accidents occur.
Authorities have not released further details on the drivers involved or whether any arrests were made. The police are expected to investigate the cause of the crash, including reviewing traffic camera footage and speaking to witnesses.
Public Reminder on Vigilance and Safe Driving
The incident serves as a reminder to motorists to remain vigilant at all times, regardless of traffic volume. Early mornings may feel quieter, but unexpected hazards and pedestrian activity can still pose serious risks if caution is not exercised.
Members of the public are advised to stay clear of accident sites and to follow instructions from emergency personnel to ensure safety and allow investigations to proceed smoothly. Updates are expected once authorities conclude their inquiries and provide further clarification on the circumstances surrounding the crash.