Over-height vehicles: LTA replies

We refer to Mr Gan Chin Yean’s letter “Heavier penalties better to stop vehicles from hitting overhead structures” (Oct 1, online). Incidents involving an over-height vehicle hitting an overhead structure are relatively few.

However, a damaged overhead road structure can pose significant danger to the vehicle driver and other road users. Many of the 24 cases in the last four years were caused by drivers who forgot to retract their machinery, and could have been prevented.

The six-month trial for the height-limit warning system complements our stringent enforcement and outreach efforts to stem this dangerous driving behaviour.

Today, those found guilty of hitting a road structure will be fined up to $5,000 or jailed for up to two years. The vehicle owner or driver will also have to pay for the repairs to the structure.

Besides enforcement, we send out public education brochures and stickers to remind owners and drivers of heavy vehicles of the need to fully retract their machinery when on the road.

We have collaborated with the driving centres to ensure that all candidates for a Class 4 or 5 driving licence are taught on the need to check for height limits and are made aware of the consequences and stringent penalties for hitting an overhead structure.

We thank Mr Gan for his feedback.