People could soon face a fine or even prison for texting while walking

Walk down a street in most cities and you’re bound to see at least two people staring at the small device in their hand almost collide.

Whether it’s texting, scrolling through Facebook or absent-mindedly playing a game, we’re all guilty of spending too much time looking at our phone instead of where we’re going.

But now phone-obsessives in New Jersey could face fines or even jail time for doing just that after a state politician proposed banning people from using their phones on public roads.

The measure would ban walking while texting and bar pedestrians on public roads from using electronic communication devices unless they are hands-free.

Those who break the law would face fines of up to $50 (£35), 15 days in prison, or both – which is the same penalty for jaywalking.

If these people are anything to go by, there may be good reason for such a move…