SINGAPORE - A motorist was jailed for four weeks and banned from driving for five years on Monday for causing the death of a motorcyclist through negligence.

Ng Cheng Guan, 56, who is in the construction business, had pleaded guilty in August to causing the death of safety officer Lionel Kiew Hern Kit, 24, at the signalised cross junction of Jalan Bukit Merah and Henderson Road on Nov 20 last year.

He was making a right turn from Jalan Bukit Merah into Henderson Road at 11.12pm when he encroached into Mr Kiew's path, causing the rider to hit his Mazda car. Mr Kiew suffered multiple injuries and died about four hours later in hospital.

The court heard that Ng was taking his girlfriend home after a friend's birthday party when the accident happened.

Mr Kiew was travelling along the second lane of Jalan Bukit Merah towards the direction of Queensway when Ng made a right turn into Henderson Road from the opposite direction without a green right turning arrow. The lights were green at the time.

As a result, Mr Kiew's motorcycle hit the left rear portion of Ng's car.

Ng did not stop upon impact but continued travelling until he was along Henderson Road when he got down from his car.

A breath evidential analyser test conducted at the scene showed Ng's alcohol/breath level to be 34 microgram/100ml, which was within the prescribed limit of 35 microgram/100ml of breath.

Investigation showed he had taken at least two half-glasses of red wine earlier at the birthday party.

Ng, who has previous convictions for traffic offences including speeding, inconsiderate driving and failing to conform to red lights, could have been jailed for up to two years and/or fined for causing death by doing a negligent act.