Forum: Attitude of drivers elsewhere is different from that of drivers here
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In the past few years, I travelled in the United Kingdom and New Zealand and rented a car for road trips.
As a foreign driver, I had to navigate unfamiliar roads, signs and directions. On a few occasions, I realised too late that I needed to change lanes or make a turn. Such situations can be stressful, especially when driving in an unfamiliar environment.
What stood out to me was the attitude of other drivers. Whenever I signalled my intention to change lanes, even at relatively short notice, drivers would often slow down and create space for me. Some even stopped briefly to allow me to merge safely. Their patience and consideration made driving much less stressful.
The experience made me reflect on the driving culture in Singapore. Too often, motorists who signal their intention to change lanes are met with vehicles accelerating to close the gap, accompanied by horns or flashing high beams. This creates unnecessary tension and increases the risk of accidents.
Changing lanes is already one of the more challenging manoeuvres on the road. Drivers must monitor traffic ahead, check mirrors, scan blind spots and judge the speed of surrounding vehicles.
When another motorist deliberately speeds up after seeing a turn signal, the situation becomes even more hazardous.
During driving lessons, we are taught the importance of giving way and sharing the road responsibly. Allowing another vehicle to merge safely usually costs only a few seconds, but it can significantly reduce the risk of a collision.
Perhaps it is time for us to view driving less as a competition and more as a shared responsibility.
A small act of courtesy can make our roads safer, reduce stress for everyone and foster a more gracious driving culture.
After all, the objective is not to arrive a few seconds earlier than the next driver, but to ensure that everyone gets home safely to their loved ones.
Edward Yam
