Motorists are penalised for using their mobile phones when driving, as it is unconscionable that other parties be put at risk because of a driver's negligence ("'Smartphone zombies' should be punished" by Mr Ng Chee Kheon; Forum Online, June 30).

Pedestrians who are crossing at signalised and zebra crossings without jaywalking, however, have the right of way.

The onus is on motorists to look out for pedestrians - "smartphone zombies" or not - and stop their vehicles in time. It therefore does not make sense to suggest that the latter be punished instead.

Punishing pedestrians "as a deterrence" is akin to diminishing the responsibility of motorists.

Terence Lim