Dangerous and Careless Driving in Singapore: What the Law Says

When discussing road safety in Singapore, the laws governing dangerous and careless driving play a central role in protecting all road users. These offences are set out in the Road Traffic Act (“RTA”), which establishes clear standards of conduct for motorists and prescribes serious consequences for those who fall short of them.

Dangerous driving is governed by Section 64 of the Road Traffic Act, while careless driving falls under Section 65. In 2019, Parliament strengthened these provisions by introducing tougher penalties, reflecting Singapore’s firm stance against irresponsible driving behaviour.

Taken together, the legal framework sets clear expectations for how motorists should behave and what happens when someone drives in a way that puts others at risk. The aim is not only to punish wrongdoing but also to deter unsafe habits, promote responsible driving, and remind every road user that a moment of carelessness can lead to severe and lasting consequences.

What is the Law On Dangerous And Careless Driving In Singapore under the Road Traffic Act?

Dangerous Driving (Section 64 of the Road Traffic Act)

Under Section 64 of the Road Traffic Act, a person commits the offence of dangerous driving if he or she drives a motor vehicle on a road:

• recklessly,
• at a high speed; or
• in a manner that is dangerous to the public.

In assessing whether driving is dangerous, the court considers all the circumstances of the case, including:

• the nature, condition, and use of the road; and
• the volume of traffic at the material time.

Dangerous driving reflects a higher degree of culpability, as it involves conduct that poses a clear and serious risk to other road users.

Careless Driving (Section 65 of the Road Traffic Act)

Section 65 of the Road Traffic Act provides that a person commits the offence of careless driving if he or she drives a motor vehicle:

• without due care and attention; or
• without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road.

Careless driving typically involves a lower degree of blameworthiness as compared to dangerous driving. However, where injury or serious harm results, the consequences for the offender can still be significant.

Penalties for Dangerous and Careless Driving in Singapore

An offender convicted of dangerous or careless driving may be sentenced to:

• a fine,
• an imprisonment term; and
• a period of disqualification from driving or riding.

The severity of the sentence depends on factors such as the degree of harm caused, the offender’s level of culpability and other offender-specific factors. Where serious injury or death results, the courts will take a particularly serious view of the offence.

The Key Differences Between Dangerous and Careless Driving

Issue	Dangerous Driving (Section 64)	Careless Driving (Section 65)
Nature of conduct	Reckless or dangerous to the public	Lack of due care or consideration
Degree of culpability	Higher	Lower (as compared to dangerous driving)
Typical examples	Excessive speeding, aggressive manoeuvres	Inattention, momentary lapse
Possible penalties	Fine, imprisonment, disqualification	Fine, imprisonment, disqualification

Landmark Case: Chen Song v Public Prosecutor [2024] SGHC 129

In 2024, a three-judge panel of the Singapore High Court in Chen Song v Public Prosecutor [2024] SGHC 129 reviewed the parliamentary debates relating to the 2019 amendments to the dangerous and careless driving provisions under the Road Traffic Act.

In that decision, the High Court also set out the applicable sentencing framework for the offence of careless driving under Section 65 of the Road Traffic Act. As a result, Chen Song is now the leading authority on careless driving causing hurt or grievous hurt in Singapore.

Hoh Law Corporation’s Role: Hoh Law Corporation represented the Appellant in Chen Song v Public Prosecutor [2024] SGHC 129. This case is among the many cases that adds to the firm’s experience in handling road traffic offences and criminal appeals before the Singapore courts.

How Courts Assess for Dangerous or Careless Driving Cases

Courts assess sentences for dangerous or careless driving by looking at several key considerations. These considerations help the Court determine how serious the offence is and what punishment is appropriate.

Harm Caused by the Offence

The Court will first consider the degree of harm caused in relation to a dangerous driving or careless driving offence. This includes the severity of injuries suffered by any victim as well as damage caused to property. A higher level of harm generally results in a higher sentence.

Culpability of the Offender

The court will next assess the culpability of the offender. Culpability refers to the degree of blameworthiness involved in the offender’s conduct.

Relevant factors may include:

• the speed at which the vehicle was driven,
• the manner of driving,
• whether traffic rules were violated; and
• the presence of aggravating circumstances such as dangerous manoeuvres.

Greater culpability leads to a higher expected sentence.

Other Offender-specific Factors

In addition to the twin factors of harm and culpability, the Court will also consider offender-specific factors. These may include:

• whether the offender has relevant past criminal records,
• whether the offender has shown remorse; and
• the extent of the offender’s cooperation with the authorities, among other things.

What to Do If You Are Charged with Dangerous or Careless Driving

If you have been charged with dangerous or careless driving, it is important to take measured and informed steps at an early stage.

Understand the Charge

The first step is to remain calm and understand the nature of the allegation. You should carefully review the charge and any accompanying documents to identify what the Prosecution is alleging and the specific offence under the Road Traffic Act.

Preserve and Gather Evidence

You should also begin gathering any evidence that may be relevant to your case. This may include:

• dashcam footage,
• photographs or videos of the scene,
• medical reports,
• timing or GPS records; and
• witness statements.

Such material may help establish the surrounding circumstances, clarify misunderstandings, or support your position during mitigation or trial.

Seek Legal Advice Early

Finally, it is important to understand your rights and obligations throughout the investigative and court processes. Seeking legal advice at an early stage can help you assess the strength of the charge, consider possible defences, and determine the most appropriate course of action in your best interests.

A lawyer can assist with preparing for court proceedings, communicating with the Prosecution, and ensuring that your interests are properly protected throughout the process.

Navigating Road Traffic Charges with Hoh Law Corporation

Given the potentially serious penalties for dangerous or careless driving, it is important for anyone facing such a charge to understand their legal position early on.

Proper legal advice can help you assess:

• the strength of the charge,
• identify possible defences,
• and decide on the best course of action.

If required, you should also consider engaging a lawyer to represent you during the criminal proceedings, whether to contest the charge or to present mitigating factors aimed at securing a more lenient sentence.

Hoh Law Corporation: Trusted Legal Guidance for Dangerous and Careless Driving Offences

Hoh Law Corporation is experienced in handling dangerous and careless driving cases, and the firm’s experience includes handling landmark matters such as Chen Song v Public Prosecutor [2024] SGHC 129. Our team can guide you through the process, provide personalised advice, and advocate on your behalf.

Book an appointment with us today for dedicated representation and support.

Frequently Asked Questions On Dangerous and Careless Driving In Singapore under the Road Traffic Act

Can careless driving lead to imprisonment in Singapore?

It is possible. Depending on the circumstances of the offence and the harm caused, a conviction for careless driving may result in imprisonment, in addition to fines and a period of disqualification from driving.

Does dangerous or careless driving automatically result in disqualification from driving?

Disqualification is a possible consequence of both dangerous and careless driving offences. Whether a disqualification order is imposed, and for how long, depends on the facts of the case and the offender’s culpability.

Can dangerous or careless driving charges be challenged in court?

Yes. Depending on the facts and evidence, it may be possible to challenge the charge or dispute the prosecution’s case. Each matter turns on its own facts’ circumstances.

What factors do courts consider when sentencing dangerous or careless driving offences?

The courts consider several key factors, including:

• the degree of harm caused,
• the culpability of the offender; and
• offender-specific factors such as prior convictions, remorse, and cooperation with the authorities.

Disclaimer: Statements in this article are not to be construed as legal advice, and are meant for general information only. The writer and/or Hoh Law Corporation shall not be responsible or liable for any errors, mistakes, or misinterpretations of any statements found herein.