Incidence of Hit-and-Run Accidents

Ms Tin Pei Ling asked the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Home Affairs over the past five years (a) how many hit-and-run accidents have been recorded; (b) whether there is a rising trend in such accidents; (c) how many of such incidents involve large vehicles; and (d) what measures are put in place to encourage hit-and-stay and discourage hit-and-run behaviours.

Mr Teo Chee Hean: The number of hit-and-run accidents each year has declined by 60% since 2008 (from 330 in 2008 to 133 in 2012). In the last three years, between 2010 and 2012, about four (or 2.6%) of such accidents each year involved heavy vehicles.

All motorists must stop when they are involved in an accident. It is irresponsible and unlawful to flee from an accident scene. The Traffic Police takes a tough stance against such motorists, especially where injury has been caused in the accident. Any delay in rendering aid to the victim can mean a difference between life and death. Severe penalties are meted out to hit-and-run offenders to deter motorists from fleeing after getting into accidents.

The driving licence of a hit-and-run motorist can be suspended pending court prosecution. Upon conviction, the offender can be fined up to $3,000 or to imprisonment for up to a year. In addition, the offender will be disqualified from driving for at least a year. This means that he will have to re-take the driving tests to obtain a new licence if he wishes to continue driving after the disqualification period. These penalties are in addition to the punishment meted out for the principal charges under the Penal Code for causing death or hurt in the accident.

The Traffic Police will continue its education, engagement and enforcement efforts to ensure road users abide by traffic rules. At the same time, we urge all road users to exercise care and consideration, and motorists to stop to provide assistance if they are involved in an accident. They should also call for medical help where this is necessary. All motorists are required to inform the Police as soon as possible if injury or serious damage to property is caused.