Why TP does not enforce wearing of helmets for cyclists

Making it compulsory for cyclists to wear a helmet could result in more risky behaviour, even as the Traffic Police (TP)said yesterday it would encourage those on two-wheelers to do so.

Responding to a question yesterday on whether the TP should enforce the wearing of helmets for cyclists, Superintendent Eleena Chiam, TP’s Head of Research, Planning and Organisational Development, noted that international studies have discovered that cyclists who did so “actually displayed more risky behaviour”.

The authorities said yesterday that cyclists are a group of road users — along with children and the elderly — they will pay close attention to.

Noting that the cycling population has grown “rapidly” within a short span of time and that the trend is expected to continue, Singapore Road Safety Council Chairman Bernard Tay said cyclists comprise a highly mixed group in terms of user patterns, behaviour and traffic knowledge.

He added: “It is a much more complex situation and requires the involvement of multiple agencies and parties. Everyone needs to recognise that there isn’t an immediate or easy solution.

“Instead, road users must practise patience and mutual respect on the roads. Safety and the preservation of lives must always be their top-most priority on the roads.”

Superintendent Chiam said the TP has been working with the Ministry of Transport, as well as other agencies such as the Land Transport Authority and the Urban Redevelopment Authority, on the issue of road safety.

In Tampines, for instance, the road safety branch of the TP has been visiting schools in the area to share safe cycling tips with students.

Amanda Lee