Standing on Escalators

"An escalator can never break; it can only become stairs. You would never see an Escalator Temporarily Out of Order sign, just an Escalator Temporarily stairs. Sorry for the convenience."

Why are people so incredibly lazy that they lose all ability to walk up 'stairs' when on an escalator. I understand if someone is handicapped, elderly, injured, or obese -- but for the common folk, what gives? And fine -- you are extremely out of shape and haven't been to a gym in 10 years -- or you are carrying a 15 lb. briefcase -- or you are just so tired/hungover that any movement is painful-- You STILL should be able to at least walk DOWN an escalator.

Also, is there an unwritten rule that I don't know about that says if you are taking an escalator with a friend/co-worker you are not allowed to move and you must take up the entire width of the stairs? Apparently there is -- well at least if I am behind you and I am trying to get by. Maybe if as Americans we are so concerned with rampant obesity we should adopt a "Turn off the Escalator Day" or even better an entire Month. Force people to walk up stairs!

Basic escalator etiquette is the same as rules of the road -- slow drivers to the right and pass on the left. If you so choose that you are unable to walk up a moving stairway, that is your own personal choice - stop acting so shocked that you are a few lbs overweight. But please move to the right so those of us who can handle the 15 second uphill walk are able to do so. If someone in front of you is standing on the right and you also decide to stand, DO NOT stand on the left so no one is able to pass you. If you are talking with a friend it is OKAY to walk while you talk OR both of you can legally stand on the right. And don't give me a miffed look if you are standing in the way and accidentally get bumped as I try to twist by you.

Screw it - I'll just take the stairs.