Everyone knows that texting and driving is a serious danger for motorists, but did you know texting and walking also poses a major threat?
More and more pedestrians are distracted by their phones or other mobile devices, whether they are texting, reading email, following a map, or checking in on social media. In fact, according to data compiled by the National Safety Council and reported in The Washington Post, about 60 percent of pedestrians are distracted while walking. This means that instead of paying attention to what is going on in front of them, they are walking with their eyes down and brains elsewhere, which puts them at risk for getting struck by vehicles.
When Texting and Walking Is the Most Dangerous
It makes sense that distracted walking is the most dangerous when crossing the street. Even if a pedestrian has the right of way and the signal indicates that the person is clear to walk, he could still be at risk while crossing the street. A car could drive through a red light while the person is crossing, or a car could turn and strike the pedestrian.
Distracted walking is dangerous for pedestrians, but it is also dangerous for drivers. A “walking zombie,” as these distracted walkers are called by some, can create a variety of issues for drivers. Along with walking out in front of a moving car and getting hit, a distracted pedestrian can also cause collisions between cars. If a driver has to slam on his brakes because of a distracted pedestrian, he can cause a rear-end accident that results in major damage, depending on how many vehicles are involved.
Why the Obsession With Our Phones?
Some people just can’t put their phones away, and there’s a scientific reason for that. When you go into a text or notification, your brain releases dopamine, which gives you a warm and fuzzy feeling. People become sort of addicted to the feeling, and do whatever it takes to get that message, even if it means checking their phones while in the middle of the street.
What You Can Do
The Steinberg Injury Lawyers know that sometimes, bad things happen to good people. We want to help you if you’ve been involved in an accident that was no fault of your own. Contact us today by calling 800-989-6385 to schedule a free consultation and find out how we can help.
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