SingaporeWhat is causing death by negligent driving?
Causing death by negligent driving in Singapore is a criminal offence under the Road Traffic Act, where a person drives carelessly or without due attention and causes another's death.
What the Law Says
The offence of causing death by negligent driving is defined and penalised under section 65 of the Road Traffic Act.
Under Singapore law, a person commits an offence if they cause the death of another person while driving a motor vehicle on a road, and at the time of driving, they are guilty of careless driving — meaning they drive without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road.
This offence is distinct from dangerous driving (which involves a higher threshold of risk) and does not require proof of intention or recklessness — only that the driver’s negligence directly caused the death.
Conviction carries serious penalties, including imprisonment, fines, and mandatory disqualification from holding or obtaining a driving licence.
Statutory TextAny person who causes the death of another person by the driving of a motor vehicle on a road in a manner which is careless, or without due care and attention, or without reasonable consideration for other persons using the road, shall be guilty of an offence.
— Road Traffic Act, s. 65 — Causing death by careless driving
What to Do
Stop safely at the scene and render assistance if possible.
Report the incident to the police immediately — failure to do so may lead to additional charges.
Cooperate fully with investigations, including providing statements and attending interviews.
Seek legal advice promptly — this is a serious criminal charge with potential imprisonment.
Prepare for possible disqualification from driving, even before conviction, as courts often impose interim bans.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.