Singapore recorded 15 fatal jaywalking cases involving elderly pedestrians in 2025, more than double the 7 reported in 2024 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The total number of elderly pedestrian deaths in traffic accidents also more than doubled to 27 in 2025 from 11 in 2024, with all fatalities occurring while crossing roads on foot [1, 2, 3, 4].
Traffic accidents involving elderly jaywalking pedestrians increased slightly to 101 cases in 2025 from 95 in 2024 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Overall, Singapore experienced a 10-year high in total traffic deaths with 149 fatalities in 2025, up from 142 in 2024 and 141 in 2016 [1, 2, 3, 4]. Traffic injuries rose from 9,342 in 2024 to 9,955 last year [1, 2, 3, 4].
Police clarified the legal definition of jaywalking on June 6, 2025, stating it includes crossing roads within 50 meters of pedestrian crossings or underpasses, ignoring traffic signals, and climbing over railings to cross the road [2]. Despite the known risks, many elderly pedestrians said they jaywalked for convenience or perceived safety [1, 2, 3, 4].
Observations in May 2025 found elderly jaywalkers frequently dodging traffic in areas such as Novena (22 every half hour), Serangoon (18), Yishun (20), and Jurong East (3) [1, 2, 3, 4]. On May 20, an elderly man narrowly avoided collisions with a taxi and motorcycle while jaywalking on Serangoon Avenue 3 [1, 2, 3, 4].
The rise in elderly pedestrian deaths and jaywalking accidents has raised concerns about road safety for seniors. The next official traffic safety review and data update is expected in early 2026.
