I also did this once for someone who walked into the street. She had the right of way, and she wasn't staring at her cellphone. She started to cross because the crosswalk indicated she was allowed to, but a car was running the red light at the same time. Just wanted to say that not being glued to a phone isn't always enough.

Side note, maybe I am a dick, but I refuse to get out of the way of another pedestrian who is staring at their phone. Just a pet peeve of mine, but I really dislike when people move around without being aware of their surroundings, as if it's everyone else's responsibility to make way for them. (Children and people I could hurt just by bumping into them get a pass.)

> She started to cross because the crosswalk indicated she was allowed to, but a car was running the red light at the same time.

Hmm. I've found far too often drivers ignore right of way of pedestrians unless you start walking, that being said running a red light is worse.

> I refuse to get out of the way of another pedestrian who is staring at their phone

Agreed, and to avoid seeming aggressive I usually stop immediately in front of them, which usually triggers an 'oh! sorry' if they bump into or come close.

I did that too. I felt cool for saving someone’s life but then three blocks ahead they were doing it again so I figure I probably only gave them another few weeks on Earth.

It would be cool if we could live in cities where crossing the street carelessly didn't have to end in death.