Section 64 (1) of the Road Traffic Act 1961 of Singapore (“RTA”) sets out the offence of reckless driving. In summary, it refers to any behaviour behind the wheel that is reckless or endangers public safety, including speeding, weaving between cars or ignoring traffic signals. Singapore imposes strict penalties on such offences to protect road users and discourage dangerous driving behaviour.
In order to decide whether the behaviour in question was reckless or endangers public safety, the court will consider factors including the nature and condition of how the road is to be used, the amount of traffic at the time of the alleged offence, visibility, and the legal speed limit in comparison to the driver’s speed. This implies that factors such as the road’s windiness or straightness, the presence of peak hour congestion, the number of pedestrians, the presence of a school zone, and the weather conditions – such as darkness and rain – will all be relevant considerations. Any police officer may arrest a person committing the offence of reckless driving without a warrant.
Penalties for Reckless Driving
Section 64 (2) RTA sets out the penalties for reckless driving. The severity is generally determined by two factors, which are:
- Extent of harm caused
- Whether the offender was a serious or repeat offender
(1) Extent of Harm Caused
The law recognises four categories of harm, which are:
- No harm
- Harm
- Grievous harm
- Death
(2) Whether the Offender was a Serious or Repeat Offender
The law recognises that an offender may be a first-time offender or a repeat offender. In addition, he may also be categorised as a serious offender or serious repeat offender. Section 64 (8) RTA defines a serious offender as one who is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or who fails to provide a breath or blood sample. A serious repeat offender would be one who satisfies the aforementioned conditions and has additionally been convicted before of driving or being in charge of a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs or refusing to provide a sample.
(3) Penalties Applicable
| No Harm | Harm | Grievous Harm | Death | |
| First Time | Fine up to $5,000 or imprisonment up to 12 months or both | Fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment up to 2 years or both | Imprisonment 1 year to 5 years | Imprisonment 2 years to 8 years |
| Repeat Offender | Fine up to $10,000 or imprisonment up to 2 years or both | Fine up to $20,000 or imprisonment up to 4 years or both | Imprisonment 2 years to 10 years | Imprisonment 4 years to 15 years |
| Serious Offender | Additional fine $2,000 to $10,000 or imprisonment up to 2 months or both | Additional fine $2,000 to $10,000 or imprisonment up to 12 months or both | Additional fine $2,000 to $10,000 and imprisonment 6 months to 1 year | Additional imprisonment 1 year to 2 years |
| Serious Repeat offender | Additional fine $5,000 to $20,000 and imprisonment up to 2 years | Additional fine $5,000 to $20,000 and imprisonment up to 2 years | Additional fine $5,000 to $20,000 and imprisonment 1 year to 2 years | Additional imprisonment 2 years to 4 years |
Section 64 (2D) and 64 (2E) prescribes the circumstances in which a mandatory disqualification from driving would apply, unless the court thinks there are special reasons to order otherwise. The period of disqualification ranges from a couple of years to a lifetime ban.
Enlist the Legal Services of a Criminal Lawyer in Singapore
Singapore’s stringent penalties for reckless driving highlight the nation’s strong emphasis on road safety. Drivers must recognise that behaviours such as speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, or disregarding traffic regulations can lead to serious repercussions, ranging from fines and disqualifications to imprisonment. Both drivers and pedestrians have a part to play in contributing to a safer environment for everyone on the road. The complexities of the Road Traffic Act and the various factors that courts consider in reckless driving cases underscore the importance of expert legal representation.
If you have been accused of reckless driving, enlisting the services of a criminal defence lawyer in Singapore is essential to ensure your rights are protected and your case is handled effectively. At Christopher Bridges Law Corporation, our experienced team understands the nuances of criminal law and is committed to providing strategic and necessary legal support. Contact our law firm in Singapore today via phone at (+65) 6323 2328 or via email at seccbridges@cbridgeslaw.com to navigate the legal process with confidence.
