Scan the headlines on any given day and chances are you'll stumble upon a story of mobile misfortune – perhaps it's a Staten Island teenager who disappeared down a manhole while reading a text message or a tragic shooting in a movie theatre, sparked by a dispute over texting. YouTube is flooded with cellphone fail videos and developers have even created apps that are meant to help people text and walk.
This week, The Associated Press reported a story from China about a 30 metre-stretch of sidewalk, in the city of Chongqing, divided into a mobile phone lane and non-mobile lane, prompting us to wonder if catering to distracted pedestrians is really the smart way to go. Maybe this New Jersey town has the right idea. We've come up with a few signs that one hopes reinforces safe and respectful mobile etiquette.
Is this a joke?
One can hope. Regardless, is a dedicated mobile phone lane the right path to take... literally?
Wexter Crossing
Walking+Texting=Wexting. Just like moose and deer, some pedestrians just don’t recognize the danger. These signs would be everywhere but only work if drivers pay attention.
Dining
No shirt, No shoes, No service. Might we add a further stipulation? This sign works in kitchens and restaurants.
No Selfie Zone
These signs would be located near office buildings, restaurants, parks, beaches, bars… well, they’d be ubiquitous.
Noise pollution
Primarily for theatres and public transit. Applies to loud talkers and blaring music.
Graphics by Murat Yukselir