How Long does a traffic summons take in Singapore?
Driving in Singapore has its unique challenges. The roads here are unlike other nations, but there’s still some danger lurking in their curves and corners.
If you happen to get into a road mishap, you might wonder what happens next.
How long does it take to be notified of a traffic offence at SG?
So for today’s post, we’ll look at how long a traffic summons takes in Singapore.
Immediately or within a Month
Most traffic summonses are sent immediately or within the week of the offence. But some also receive theirs within a month, depending on the vehicle-related offence.
You can appeal an LTA summon via email or fax. But if you don’t wish to do so, you can pay the fines online using the LTA’s e-payment services or through any online banking partners.
Please note that summons without demerit points won’t affect your car insurance premiums. However, it’s best to discuss this with your insurance agent to be sure.
Check with the Electronic Driver Data Information and Enquiry System
In Singapore, the Electronic Driver Data Information & Enquiry System (EDDIES) is where you can look for details of a traffic offence. This website also gives information on status appeals and driving license applications.
To check your status, you can log into the system using your SingPass or car’s Photocard Licence Serial number. Or if you’re a foreigner driving in Singapore, you can key in your Foreign Registered Vehicle Number.
However, if you’re still under investigation for a traffic offence, it won’t likely show up on EDDIES. Only those records issued by the Traffic Police will be listed.
Wait for an offer of composition if it’s a minor offence
You’re still likely to receive a Notice of Traffic Offence even if you committed a minor traffic offence like speeding or not wearing a seatbelt. However, it could also be accompanied by an offer of composition.
This means you won’t need to go to court if you pay the amount that the notice mentions. As previously mentioned, you can pay online using electronic payment services or bank transfers.
These fines are meant to keep a low crime rate in Singapore and to encourage drivers to be more cautious and disciplined about operating their vehicles.
But for matters like loud motorcycles, the Environmental Protection and Management (Vehicular Emissions) Regulations is the more apt organisation to approach.
Arrestable offences warrant an appearance at the Criminal Mentions Court
And yet some traffic offences are considered criminal in Singapore. These kinds of crimes no longer merit an offer of composition.
Instead, there’s usually a Notice to Attend Court with a court appearance date stated in the traffic notice. There will be a judge to hear the case in Traffic Court, after which a Court Officer can give the offending party Payment Advice.
Under the Singapore legal system, serious traffic offences can also be considered arrestable offences.
Within 48 hours, an appearance at the Criminal Mentions Court is mandatory so that the arrested driver can know all the consequences and procedures for the case.