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.