Forum: Ride-hailing platforms should be proactive in preventing drivers from speeding

The continued rise in speeding violations and speeding-related accidents points to a structural weakness in our regulatory framework (

Injuries, deaths on Singapore’s roads rise in H1 2025; accidents due to red-light violation also up

, Aug 29).

Current enforcement is centred on the Traffic Police through cameras, patrols, fines, and demerit points. This model is necessary but reactive, relying on detection rather than prevention.

A critical gap lies in the role of ride-hailing platforms and private-hire drivers.

Evidence suggests that private-hire drivers face pressures that may increase speeding risk. Long working hours and incentive structures that reward trip volume can encourage drivers to rush.

Fatigue, inexperience and distraction are well-documented factors that impair reaction time and judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Insurers and industry reports also indicate that private-hire vehicles are more likely to be involved in traffic accidents than other passenger cars.

Since platforms already capture detailed data, including speed, trip duration and driving patterns, they should be required to play a proactive role in monitoring and curbing speeding.

For example, operators can use existing data to flag habitual speeders, and periodically submit anonymised speeding data to the authorities for oversight.

Platforms should also suspend, retrain or delist drivers with repeated infractions. Bonus structures can also be redesigned to reward compliance and safe driving.

These measures would strengthen Singapore’s road safety framework, reduce accident risks, and ensure that commercial pressures do not compromise public safety.

Mohamad Nurhafiz Mohd Noor