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More fatalities in road accidents involving heavy vehicles last year

An array of slow and heavy vehicles plying all four lanes of the Pan-Island Expressway on Aug 25, 2009. More people were killed in road accidents involving heavy vehicles last year. -- ST FILE PHOTO: TERENCE TAN
An array of slow and heavy vehicles plying all four lanes of the Pan-Island Expressway on Aug 25, 2009. More people were killed in road accidents involving heavy vehicles last year. -- ST FILE PHOTO: TERENCE TAN

More people were killed in road accidents involving heavy vehicles last year. Statistics released by the Traffic Police on Monday showed that fatalities resulted from such accidents rose by 37.5 per cent, from 32 cases in 2012 to 44 cases in 2013.

Traffic violations committed by heavy vehicles also went up by 5.8 per cent, from 12,583 cases in 2012 to 13,318 cases last year.

Commander of Traffic Police, Assistant Commissioner of Police Cheang Keng Keong, said that accidents involving heavy vehicles continue to be a cause for concern, even as Traffic Police increased their operations against errant heavy vehicle drivers.

On a brighter note, the number of fatal and injury accidents continues on a declining trend that began in 2010. Last year, the number of fatal and injury accidents dropped by 10.6 per cent to 6,426 cases, from 7,188 cases in 2012.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Cheang said: "Even as the number of fatal and injury traffic accidents decline, there remains a small group of recalcitrant drivers who are a menace to other road users.

"We will continue to be tough with errant road users. We will be firmer with our appeals and errant motorists can expect to be suspended and lose their licences altogether if they do not improve on their driving behaviour. Over and above enforcement, Traffic Police will continue to engage our stakeholders and educate motorists and vulnerable road users on road safety. Every life matters, we can play a part to make our roads safer for everyone."

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