Certain cities in the US have started fining walkers on the streets if they are caught texting on their iPhone (or other mobile devices). If you have ever walked down a street while composing a short email or text message, you know how distracting it can be and how unaware you are of where you are and what is going on around you.This is leading to more and more accidents and the new system of fines is meant to make you more aware of the dangers.
Earlier this year a woman from Pennsylvania was caught on video whilst walking through a shopping center. She was so engrossed in typing out her message that she fell right into a water feature. Yes this example was quite funny however it could have been a whole lot worse.
Pennsylvania is now looking at putting an end to these sorts of incidents and is introducing a programme called “Give Respect, Get Respect”. This programme covers distracted drivers, cyclists and pedestrians. Mayor Nutter denied that offenders would automatically be fined at first but did admit that violators would be reminded and warned of their surroundings and potential dangers. In Rexburgh, Idaho fines are already in place for texting while walking. Anyone found walking across a street while texting is immediately fined $50.
I think this really is a case or using your common sense but unfortunately it doesn’t always work that way. Hopefully we will see future iPhones with better voice integration enabling us to talk to send text messages rather than typing. You could always just use the Email ‘n Walk app which uses the iPhone’s camera to show you what is in front of you; as you type your text. This won’t save you from a fine, but may stop you falling in that fountain or in front of a fast moving vehicle!
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