DEAR MISS MANNERS: It is my understanding that when walking on a sidewalk, one should walk on the right side of the path. And now, with the requirement for social distancing, couples or groups should walk single-file when passing others coming in the opposite direction to allow for a 6-foot clearance, if possible. What is the proper response when people either don’t understand this or choose to ignore it? I often find myself stepping off the sidewalk and into the street or a driveway in order to avoid these people. Other than glaring at them as they pass, is there a proper way to inform them?
GENTLE READER: Not having the power to lock people up, etiquette can seldom guarantee that you will change another person’s behavior -- only that you will have made every effort short of rudeness or force.
This is why governments get involved in pandemics. Miss Manners assures you that crossing the street to avoid someone, stepping onto a driveway and waiting, or stepping into the street -- presuming that you are not putting yourself in even more imminent danger -- will make your point. The glare is optional.