red light. what red light? i didn't see

these days it seems quite a number of drivers have compromised the meaning of the red light at traffic stops. in the past, we used to practise this: when you saw amber, it meant you got ready to stop. and, of course, when you saw red, you had to stop.

you need only to stand at any traffic junction, especially during peak hours, to observe and you will understand that it does not mean the same thing anymore. when it has just turned red, some drivers do not stop even though they have ample time to do so.

nowadays, it is not a case of beating the red light; it is more like ignoring the red light, especially during the first few seconds.

it is no wonder that more motorists are caught by the cameras for beating the red light and there is an increase in the number of accidents at traffic junctions. once you get into this habit of not stopping for the red light, you may lapse into doing it even when you know that there is a camera aimed at you.

i have often wondered how this change came about. is it because we have more imported drivers who carry over their habits to our shore? or, is it because we have less regard for rules and regulations? or is it because time is so precious that it is okay to maim someone or to take away a life or two? or is it because the traffic police are more lax about this ruling.

"the traffic police say failing to adhere to traffic signals is one of the major causes of accidents at intersections in singapore."