RECENTLY, a colleague and I stopped at the scene of an accident to render assistance to a seriously injured motorist. Sadly, we left the scene infuriated and deeply disappointed with the behaviour of other drivers.
Despite the ambulance having its beacon lights and siren on, we had to beckon to motorists to give way. This was especially frustrating as all could see that it was a serious accident. Medical help was needed urgently.
If we are to be a gracious society, giving way to emergency vehicles should be second nature. Even if one suffers some inconvenience in the process, be it waiting a few minutes, changing into a slower-moving lane or even missing a turn, one should do it gladly. Someone's life could be saved by that simple act. Every effort should be made, so long as safety is not compromised.
In most of Europe and the United States, it is common to see drivers moving out of the fast lane as soon as the wailing of a siren is heard. This is a culture we should develop in Singapore.
Drivers here often give the excuse that they are unable to give way as others make it hard for them to switch lanes. Could I suggest that all drivers do the following when they hear a siren: first, check if you are in the same lane as the emergency vehicle. If so, move out of the lane immediately. If not, slow down and allow other drivers to cut into your lane.
I am sure all drivers would do all these willingly if an ambulance was carrying a friend or loved one. A few minutes could make a life-and-death difference.
I hope a culture of giving way to emergency vehicles can be built up by appealing to the moral responsibility of drivers.
Should the situation not improve, the Traffic Police and the Singapore Civil Defence Force should take more forceful action to enforce such behaviour.
