DISPLAY TIMERS AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS

Dr Teo Ho Pin asked the Minister for Communications whether he will consider installing display timers at traffic lights so that motorists will be able to know the time left before the green light turns amber, and adjust their speed accordingly when approaching traffic light junctions.

Mr Mah Bow Tan: LTA is not in favour of installing display timers for traffic lights for the time being. If display timers are provided at traffic lights to let motorists know of the remaining time before the green light turns to amber, some motorists may find it useful to slow down as they approach the traffic light junction. But, there could be others who will be tempted to speed up to catch the green. When they cannot judge properly, they will end up either suddenly braking or beating the amber and red lights. Both these actions will endanger road safety. The current system of using a 3-5 second amber period before traffic lights turn from green to red, is an international practice, which has served us well and need not be modified.