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7 Ways TO USE PMDs SAFELY J ust five years ago, few would have pictured Singapore's streets as they are now: filled with people on personal mobility devices (PMDs) like scooters, hoverboards and unicycles zipping about in every direction. But we do adapt well to the latest tech, and PMDs are key to Singapore's move towards being "car-lite", so they've quickly become a part of everyday life. Unfortunately, PMDs have also become a part of the news far too often. Tragic accidents and reckless riding have made headlines on a regular basis (according to The Straits Times , there are three PMD-related accidents a week), but that doesn't change the fact that PMDs are useful tools that are safe to use provided you follow the rules regarding their use, and practice a bit of old fashioned common sense. With the Active Mobility Act in place effective May 2018, PMD users now have a well- defined set of guidelines to follow. Hefty fines and/or jail terms await PMD users who flout these regulations. Here are seven points to note. 1. Don't use PMDs on roads While power-assisted bikes (PABs) can be used on roads, PMDs must stay on footpaths, park connectors and shared paths. Riding a tiny unicycle alongside a massive tipper truck is not a good idea, after all. Do bear in mind that if you have a PAB, you can use it on roads and shared paths/park connectors, but not on footpaths. 2. Stick to speed and size limits Collisions between pedestrians and PMD users can lead to injury and even death, and it's your responsibility as a PMD user to keep pedestrian safety in mind. You can travel at up to 15km/h on footpaths and 25km/h on park connectors or shared paths. The speed of your PMD must be limited to 25km/h and it also can't weigh more than 20kg or measure more than 70cm in width. Additionally, be aware of signage indicating that you should dismount and push your PMD. 3. In the event of an accident, stop and help Among the Active Mobility Act regulations is the necessity to stop and render assistance if you are involved in an accident. Should such an incident occur, don't panic, check on the other party and take a moment to assess the situation. Do provide your particulars if the incident results in any injury or damage to property.
A RARE FIND BARELY A FEW YEARS AGO, PMDS ARE FAST FILLING OUR STREETS TODAY AS THE NATION MOVES TOWARDS BEING CAR-LITE.
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