Mandatory speed limiters for lorries from 1 Jan 2024

Discussions on introducing mandatory speed limiters for lorries are close to fruition, as the Traffic Police (TP) announced plans to kick-start the installation exercise. The implementation will begin in phases from 1 January 2024. Under the new requirement, lorries with a maximum laden weight of between 3,501kg and 12,000kg cannot go beyond the speed limit of 60km/h. 

Industry watchers have been keeping close tabs on the development of safety measures, particularly for lorries that transport workers. The spotlight has been on this issue since an incident involving 37 people - including migrant workers - got injured in two lorry incidents in July this year. 

The Traffic Police had consulted with various stakeholders in formulating its measures with regard to the speed limiter

The TP had consulted with industry groups, safety experts, transport operators, private companies, non-governmental organisations, and academic institutions to inform its decision on the speed limiter. From 1 January 2024, lorry owners will have two to three years to install the limiter and comply with the revised speed limit requirement. This is because the TP recognises that time is needed for the supply and installation of the speed limiters.

Only companies authorised by the TP can install the speed limiters. Come 1 January, the Singapore Police Force will post on its website a list of authorised agents. Lorry owners are encouraged to arrange for the installation early. The police said that all lorries will undergo a compliance check during installation, to ensure the speed limiter is functioning properly. 

Apart from the mandatory speed limiter, authorities are looking into other measures to enhance the safety of lorries on the roads

Speed limiters are already in place for all goods vehicles with a maximum laden weight exceeding 12,000kg. Meanwhile, speed warning devices are required for all goods vehicles with a laden weight of up to 3,500kg. 

As part of the review to tighten safety measures for lorries, the authorities are concurrently looking to strengthen deterrence against speed-limiter offences. These include tampering and non-compliant speed limiters. Other measures that have been rolled out include the requirement for employers to ensure lorry drivers have sufficient rest before ferrying people.