Driver Sentenced to Jail for Fatal BKE Motorcycle Crash
SINGAPORE: Ang Yixian, 42, has been sentenced to 22 weeks’ jail for careless driving in a fatal crash with a motorcycle on the Bukit Timah Expressway (BKE). This incident occurred on Nov 6, 2023, at about 9:45 am, when Ang was driving his car along the third lane of the BKE towards the Pan Island Expressway (PIE).
The victim, a 24-year-old man riding the motorcycle, died of head injuries three days after the accident. Investigations revealed that the motorcycle should have been in Ang’s full view for at least three to four seconds before the collision occurred.
Eyewitness Accounts and Legal Proceedings
According to eyewitness accounts, Ang filtered right from the third lane into the second lane of the BKE without signaling or paying proper attention. This resulted in a collision with the motorcycle, causing the victim and his pillion rider to fall. Fortunately, Ang managed to avoid hitting another motorcycle on the road.
After the accident, Ang called an ambulance, and the motorcyclist was rushed to the hospital for emergency brain surgery. Despite medical efforts, the victim succumbed to his injuries on the night of Nov 9, 2023. The prosecution argued for seven to eight months’ imprisonment, citing a prolonged period of inattention on Ang’s part.
Sentencing and Legal Implications
In the courtroom, the defense requested a four-month jail term, emphasizing that while Ang was negligent, he was not engaging in risky driving behaviors such as speeding or abrupt lane changes. Ultimately, the judge handed down a 22-week jail sentence to Ang, along with an eight-year ban from driving once he is released from prison.
The judge highlighted that this “unfortunate accident” resulted in the loss of a life, underscoring the need for a clear message that such careless driving behavior is not acceptable. The case serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of inattentive driving on expressways, where potential harm is high. The legal repercussions for careless driving causing death can result in a jail term of up to three years, a fine of up to S$10,000, or both.
As we reflect on this tragic incident, let us remember the importance of staying vigilant and focused while on the road to prevent such devastating outcomes. Let us honor the memory of the victim by making road safety a top priority in our daily lives.