Safe Riders Campaign to promote seven best practices for cyclists and PMD users
Do you give way to pedestrians? Slow down or push your bicycles or personal mobility devices (PMDs) when approaching crowded areas? Or stop to look out for vehicles at a traffic crossing? These are part of a series of safe riding behaviours which the Land Transport Authority (LTA) aims to inculcate in cyclists and PMD users.
2. In conjunction with April’s edition of Car-Free Sunday SG, LTA is rolling out the Safe Riders Campaign, to promote seven riding habits which cyclists and PMD users should practise in public spaces.
3. The Safe Riders Campaign kicks off a series of public education efforts following the Government’s acceptance of the Rules and Codes of Conduct for Cycling and PMDs during the Committee of Supply Debate 2016. Under the new rules, bicycles and PMDs like kick-scooters, e-scooters, electric unicycles and hoverboards can be used on footpaths, shared paths and cycling paths.
4. Associate Professor Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim, Chairman for the Active Mobility Advisory Panel (AMAP) and Parliamentary Secretary for Education, Social and Family Development, will take the lead together with the AMAP members to launch the Safe Riders Pledge, a first in a series of activities under the Campaign, at the Car Free Sunday SG flag-off. Please refer to Annex A for the pledge.
5. The Safe Riders Pledge is a voluntary pledge aimed at encouraging cyclists and PMD users to make a commitment to riding safely and watching out for other users on the paths. Pledge takers will receive booklets outlining the seven safe riding habits as well as Safe Riders collaterals such as reflective wristbands when they sign up for the pledge at the Safe Riders booth at Car-Free Sunday SG. Those looking to test out their safe riding skills can also try out a specially-designed obstacle course, and stand to win prizes.
6. Said Associate Professor Faishal: “With cycling and the use of PMDs becoming increasingly popular forms of first-and-last mile options, the AMAP is heartened that our recommendations were fully accepted by the Government. However, we are mindful that we have to create and foster an environment and culture where all users can share space in a harmonious and safe manner. With the launch of the Safe Riders Campaign, we hope that cyclists and PMD users can commit to riding safely and looking out for pedestrians, who are gracious in sharing the footpaths.”
7. As part of the campaign, a series of posters, walkway and lamppost banners will also be rolled out island-wide from April. To find out more and make a commitment to ride safely, the public can also visit SafeRiders.sg. Please refer to Annex B for examples of these posters and banners which depict the seven safe riding habits.
8. The Safe Riders campaign will complement efforts by LTA to educate the public on safe riding habits. LTA will be working with the Singapore Road Safety Council to introduce a Cycling Education Programme to educate participants on safe cycling practices and proper use of cycling infrastructure. Moving forward, LTA will also continue to engage the community and interest groups to build a culture of safe and gracious sharing of paths as well as make improvements to create a safe walking and riding environment for all.
