SINGAPORE - Singapore Road Safety Council Chairman Bernard Tay today told cyclists to accept that they are vulnerable on the roads and urged them to be fanatical about their own safety.

In a statement to the media, Mr Tay pointed out that cyclists will always come out worse in any accident with a motorised vehicle.

"Adopt a safety-first mindset and consistently make safe decisions on the side of caution," he said.

 
"Be aware that there are many motorists who are inconsiderate, inattentive and fail to exercise due care on the roads."

His comments come in the wake of cyclist Freddy Khoo's death over the weekend.

Mr Khoo was cycling along Loyang Avenue with two friends at about 6.50am last Saturday morning when a lorry collided with them.

He was severely injured, and later died in Changi General Hospital.

The SRSC said it is very saddened and distressed by the incident and that it is its plea that every road user gives utmost priority to safe road user behaviour and the preservation of human life at all times.
is absolutely no excuse for failure to practise safe road behaviour, particularly if that failure or lapse leads to accidents involving cyclists and other road users.

Reminding them of their duty and responsibility to be on the highest alert when on the road, he urged drivers to give due care and attention to other road users.

"You must immediately reduce your speed when you see cyclists and other vulnerable road users, and ensure you maintain a safe distance at all times," he added.

His death has ignited fresh efforts from MPs and the cycling community to lobby for road safety.

Netizens too have come out to voice their views on the issue with some urging the government to introduce cycling lanes and make roads safer for cyclists, while others believe cyclists should stay on park connectors and the pavements instead of demanding space on the roads.

MP Irene Ng on Monday posted on her Facebook page reiterating her calls for a coordinated national effort to promote safety on the roads for cyclists.

Parliamentary Secretary (Transport) Dr Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim said yesterday on his Facebook profile that he will meet various stakeholders and pledged to build on the various cycling initiatives which have been done in the past.