You’ve heard about the dangers of distracted driving – but what about distracted walking? You might not be putting others’ lives at risk when you walk while distracted, but you could be putting yourself in significant danger. According to the National Safety Council, distracted walking incidents are increasing. A combination of more walkable cities and increased cell phone use is driving up the numbers of pedestrian accidents. Now, one Southern California city is doing something about distracted walking.
The Dangers of Distracted Walking
Walking while distracted can remove a pedestrian’s eyes from the walkway and mind from the task at hand. Walking while texting, talking on the phone, scrolling through social media, listening to music, watching videos, chatting with a fellow pedestrian, eating and drinking, even thinking too much about something on your mind can all put you at risk of getting into a traffic collision. It is critical to dedicate your full attention to the task of walking for your own personal safety.
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) is one of many organizations that has been tracking the statistics for distracted pedestrian injuries and deaths for the past few years. According to the AAOS, the number of pedestrian injuries due to cell phone use while walking has more than doubled since 2004. At least 60% of pedestrians today walk while distracted by other activities. Although 74% of people say others often walk distracted and 78% believe it’s a serious issue, just 29% admit to doing so themselves. According to an AAOS survey, respondents say the greatest distraction is talking on the phone (90%).
The people most effected by distracted walking are kids and teenagers. They don’t possess an understanding of distracted driving because they are yet to drive. So, they are not aware that drivers are not always paying attention. It’s important for parents to speak with their children and teenagers about distracted walking. Parents will teach their kids to look both ways before crossing the street, but they should also teach them to pay attention when crossing. Even if you can receive compensation for injuries, they will never fully compensate you if you’re still injured. Health is more important than money and anyone who has had a personal injury case understands that. It’s best to prevent those injuries by being cautious. Don’t forget to inform your kids of the dangers of distracted walking.