> This happens at pedestrian crossings, too. I think if someone presses the button more than 5 times, or holds their finger on it for more than 3 seconds, they should be immolated on the spot.
>
> It's extreme, I know, but fair. They certainly won't do it again.
>
> I've started pointing the futility of it out to people now, though. Especially if they press the button *right after* I press it. A quick "Thank you! I'm sure that *really* helped speed the cycle along!" usually makes me feel better.
>
>

The difference, though, is that there is no discernible sign that those things have ever actually worked. So one night as well keep mashing the button in the hopes of getting it at just the right time.

I don't even bother with them anymore. Jaywalking is a time-honored tradition here in Pittsburgh (there was a HUGE public outcry not too long ago when police started citing people for it downtown. Eventually, police just stopped, because of public pressure), and I do my fair share of it. I've done so unscathed...so far.

The Other "And where did the term 'jaywalk' even COME from? I always think of some little bluejay crossing the street when I hear it" Matthew