Lorries with Mandatory Speed Limiters: Singapore Government Urges Compliance
In a bid to enhance road safety and protect workers, the Singapore government has mandated the installation of speed limiters for lorries with a maximum laden weight between 3,500 kg and 12,000kg. As of the end of 2024, only around 50 lorries have complied with this requirement, sparking concerns among authorities.
Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam revealed in a parliamentary session on Tuesday (Jan 7) that the Traffic Police (TP) initiated the compulsory installation of speed limiters for these lorries in January 2024. These speed limiters are designed to ensure that the lorries do not exceed a speed limit of 60kmh, thus reducing the risk of accidents and injuries to workers onboard.
Low Adoption Rates Prompt Government Intervention
Despite the importance of this safety measure, Mr. Shanmugam expressed worries about the slow progress of installation among lorry owners. To address this issue, TP is collaborating with authorized motor distributors, the Motor Traders Association of Singapore, and authorized inspection centers to encourage early installation of speed limiters. Additionally, SMS reminders are being sent out to remind lorry owners of the compliance deadlines.
Compliance Deadlines and Penalties
Lorry owners are urged to install speed limiters ahead of the deadlines to avoid congestion at workshops. Older and heavier lorries are required to comply by Jan 1, 2026, while lighter lorries have until July 1, 2026. Newer lorries have an extended deadline until 2027 due to the unavailability of speed limiters for such vehicles previously. Failure to comply with the installation deadlines will result in liability for an offense and failing periodic inspections.
Focus on Worker Safety
The installation of speed limiters is part of a broader effort to improve the safety of workers transported in lorries. Statistics from the Ministry of Transport and government agencies show that people onboard lorries account for about 4% of total annual injuries from road traffic accidents in the past five years. This initiative follows a comprehensive review involving industry groups, safety experts, transport operators, private companies, NGOs, and academic institutions.
In addition to speed limiters, other safety measures have been introduced, such as mandatory rest periods for lorry drivers and rain covers for lorries. The authorities are also considering strengthening laws to deter offenses related to speed limiters, such as tampering and non-compliance.
As the government emphasizes the importance of compliance with speed limiter installation, lorry owners are urged to prioritize safety and ensure timely adherence to the deadlines to protect both workers and road users. Let’s all play our part in creating a safer environment on the roads for everyone.