Make headlights mandatory for PMDs

PMD riders at Tampines Central Shopping Street on Aug 5, 2019. ST PHOTO: DESMOND WEE

While many issues have been raised regarding personal mobility devices (PMDs), no one seems to have highlighted one important safety feature that is currently lacking - headlights.

This can be easily implemented, and there is a dire need for it based on my personal experience. One night, while making a discretionary right turn with no pedestrians crossing the road, I had to jam the brakes as a PMD rider suddenly rushed across. Thankfully, I managed to avoid an accident.

If the rider had been using a headlight, I would have noticed him earlier. If PMD riders continue to move around at night without headlights, I can't imagine how many more accidents involving pedestrians and vehicles will take place.

Cheang Weng Keong

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on August 08, 2019, with the headline Make headlights mandatory for PMDs. Subscribe