Are you driving right now? Well, we’re happy you’re reading our articles, but STOP BEING AN IDIOT!
Reader: Hey, that’s mean.
Oh, I’m sorry, I just worry about your safety.
Reader: That’s alright. I apprecia-
ARE YOU STILL READING? STOP IT RIGHT NOW!
Reader: Ok, ok, geez.
As any rational person knows, texting while driving is an incredibly dangerous thing to do. Driving requires our full attention, and it isn’t really the best time to be talking to your latest match on Tinder.
Reader: But we already know this. That’s why it’s illegal in Singapore.
Yes, but did you know- wait are you kidding me? WHY ARE YOU STILL READING?
Reader: I CAN’T STOP, IT’S A DISEASE
It’s illegal in Singapore, yes, but now other countries are following suit.
M’sia Police Will Fine Drivers Who Are Caught Texting & Driving
You might think that there are certain things you can get away with when you cross the border, but texting while driving isn’t one of them anymore.
According to Sin Chew Daily, Malaysia will be issuing a S$100 (RM 300) fine to anyone who texts and drives from 18 Feb.
MS News reports that this measure will be in place from 18 Jan to 1 Feb, in conjunction with the Chinese New Year period.
Reader: Wait, 18 Jan to 1 Feb? So, texting after 1 Feb is ok?
We’re not entirely sure, but it’s safer not to text and drive at all, of course. So, if you’re planning to visit relatives in Malaysia for CNY, do take note of this new rule.
Safe return
The theme of the safety operation is “Safely Returning to Hometowns, Staying Safe at Home”.
It is estimated that the daily traffic volume will reach 2 million vehicles during CNY, which is 18% higher than normal.
And according to their research, the police said that negligent driving has been the main cause of traffic accidents.
This is why they’re enforcing strict punishments against 5 other offences, in addition to texting and driving;
- Misuse of emergency lanes
- Overtaking other vehicles on a double-line lane
- Beating the red light
- Speeding
- Cutting queues
- Texting while driving
Anyone found guilty of the offences above will be fined RM300 (S$100). And you can’t really bribe your way out of a fine, can you?
Plus, the police have emphasized that they will not be lenient with any offending drivers.
They will collaborate with other agencies like expressway companies to ensure that there will be 5,000 staff and officers to support the operation, reported MS News.
Also, if you’re planning to drive to Malaysia, remember to top up your Touch N Go cards as reload lanes on PLUS expressways are reportedly closed.
Have a safe CNY
Everyone likes to party, but we should also be careful. These measures are in place to ensure we return home safely from our family gatherings.
When we drive, we’re not only responsible for our passengers, but pedestrians on the road as well.
Practice road safety at all times, because a simple text is certainly not worth risking lives over.
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Be safe, everyone!
