The dangers of distracted driving and the importance of paying attention to the road ahead is all over the news. What most people don’t know, however, is that there’s another unknown danger on the streets: distracted walking.
Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of vehicular crashes. Not paying attention while driving means you’re not processing important driving information. You’re missing the warning signs that can prevent most road accidents. According to a recent study, the use of mobile devices can be just as dangerous for walkers as it is for drivers. The researchers from the University of Washington found that one in three pedestrians get distracted by their mobile devices while crossing the street.
According to reports, emergency room visits for injuries and fatalities caused by distracted walking have increased in the past seven years. Pedestrians in public places, such as streets, parking lots, shopping centers, and railroad stations often walk with their heads down. These people are often seen texting, browsing, or talking on their cell phones. As a result, they’re posing a serious risk to themselves and those around them.
Mobile Phones, Mobile Distractions
The common cause of distracted walking is electronic devices. Each year, these devices come out with new features that can be highly addictive. Socializing is important to most people, and new technology keeps them in almost constant contact with their family and friends. This also means they spend too much time engrossed in their electronic devices instead of paying attention to their surroundings. When people are distracted or even have their heads down, it’s impossible for them to see what’s ahead or beside them. This often results in injuries, such as facial and nasal fractures, eye injuries, sprain and fractures, and even head trauma.
In a world full of personal distractions, it’s hard to keep paying attention to your surroundings. For your safety and the safety of others around you, it’s important always to keep your head up. For more information on distracted walking and other concerns on personal injury, contact us at (504) 470-3935 or visit us at 3501 Canal Street, New Orleans, LA 70119.