Stop smartphone menace on roads

It is well established that motorists are not allowed to use smartphones while driving.

Although traffic laws have been tightened in this respect, as a driver, I still see many motorists flouting this law - some even text while driving.

I have observed these drivers swerving and having problems keeping lane discipline.

They also tend to keep stepping on the brake, confusing other motorists about their intentions.

So, to ensure better safety on our roads, we need to improve our enforcement of this law.

Another rising concern regarding smartphones is pedestrians using them.

I have seen many pedestrians using mobile devices while crossing the road, never lifting their heads to watch out for on-coming traffic.

Some were even pushing prams or trolleys while using their mobile devices.

I appeal to the authorities to consider passing laws against pedestrians' use of mobile devices while crossing roads.

It will be hard to enforce this all the time, but with the imposition of fines on those caught, pedestrians will give it some thought before taking the chance.

Peter Chan Teng Hong

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 07, 2016, with the headline Stop smartphone menace on roads. Subscribe