Search the Community

A timely reminder article from the good doctor to all of us road warriors... From ST Forum: http://www.straitstimes.com/premium/forum-...ociety-20121026 Road courtesy is the litmus test of civil society Published on Oct 26, 2012 SENIOR Minister of State for Education Lawrence Wong observed that an "emerging thread" in Our Singapore Conversation has been a focus on values like kindness, graciousness and compassion ("S'poreans care about values, dialogues show"; Sunday). The recent National Kindness Conference also revealed the perception that these values could be improved ("'We are kind, but we could be kinder'"; Sunday). Road accidents involving pedestrians, cyclists and motorists suggest that this problem has much to do with the lack of discipline, courtesy, kindness and graciousness. What is perhaps not sufficiently stressed is that many motorists do not observe basic road etiquette and rules when driving. The highway code test teaches learner drivers to use directional signs when turning, switching lanes, overtaking and slowing down, yet it is commonplace to see our drivers in Singapore flouting these vital indicators, and, to add insult to injury, displaying ugly manners. The consequences are obviously more serious because collisions, injuries and fatalities are the result. Few motorists, for example, use the left or right indicator to show their intentions. Many motorists also tend to speed and cause anxiety for other road users. There is no substitute for complying with the strict driving rules, combined with common-sense driving habits. Steps should be taken to ensure that driving instructors spare no effort in directing learner drivers to observe basic road rules and manners, and in emphasising compliance with highway code rules. There should also be strict enforcement of the rules, and deterrent action should be taken against errant and reckless motorists. At a time when we are pondering on ways to make our future brighter and more meaningful, it should be remembered that road manners are often a good indicator of how a society has progressed in terms of civil behaviour. V. Subramaniam (Dr)