> However I don't think fines are the right way to go. Signs and advertising campaigns would be better. Fines just violate the social contract. You're also not really hurting anyone else but yourself. In the fight or car vs person, the car is going to win .. I mean, unless you get hit by a cyclist.

Slowing other pedestrians, endangering bicyclists and yourself, and putting drivers at risk of a traumatic experience due to your recklessness violates the social contract, not fines for anti-social/rude/unsafe or otherwise reckless behavior.

EDIT: Walking while texting or using your phone not held up to your ear? Receive a fine. Doing the same while driving? Lose your driver's license. These are the only ways to fix behaviors that show no regard for others causing a safety hazard.