The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has issued a stern warning to social media influencers and the general public about the concerning trend of dangerous driving behaviors being recorded and shared online. Irimaia Rokosawa, acting chief executive officer of LTA, emphasized the illegal nature of these reckless acts, which are often showcased on platforms such as Facebook and TikTok, and highlighted the significant risks they pose to road safety.
In recent months, the LTA has noted a troubling rise in videos depicting unsafe driving practices, including the act of filming while driving. Mr. Rokosawa pointed out that such content could mislead viewers into believing that these behaviors are acceptable when, in reality, they are far from it.
“The LTA stresses that engaging in such activities is both illegal and irresponsible,” Mr. Rokosawa stated. He went on to say, “Posting videos of reckless driving on social media is not only dangerous but deeply irresponsible. It sets a dangerous precedent for other drivers who may see these actions as acceptable. We want to make it very clear that driving while distracted by mobile phones or other gadgets is illegal and highly dangerous. We urge influencers and all drivers to immediately stop these behaviors and prioritize safety on our roads.”
In response to this escalating issue, the LTA’s enforcement team is actively monitoring social media to identify and address these dangerous behaviors. The public is also encouraged to report instances of reckless driving they witness.
Mr. Rokosawa highlighted various risky behaviors that contribute to fatal accidents, such as speeding, drink-driving, and driver fatigue, urging all drivers to recognize the seriousness of these actions and take responsibility.
To enhance enforcement, the LTA plans to deploy personnel in high-traffic areas, especially around popular transport hubs, and to strictly enforce speed limits and traffic regulations. “Our priority is to ensure the safety and wellbeing of all road users. By intensifying our enforcement efforts, we aim to create a safer driving environment and reduce the number of road accidents,” he concluded.