Put Down Your Phone When Walking In Ohio

Distracted walking is a dangerous trend, causing many pedestrian accidents each year.

According to researchers and graduates of The Ohio State University, distracted walking is becoming more prevalent in Ohio and across the country.

The researchers examined data regarding cellphone usage and pedestrian accidents. They found that the number of pedestrians who require emergency room medical care following a pedestrian crash involving a cellphone is on the rise. In 2004, just 559 pedestrians suffered injuries in accidents that took place while they were using their cellphones. In 2010, over 1,500 so-called distracted walkers required emergency room care following a crash.

In all, the study found that pedestrians between the ages of 16 and 25 were the most at risk of being injured in a crash while distracted by a cellphone. In addition, pedestrians were more likely to suffer injuries if they were walking and talking on their phone than if they were walking and texting.

These statistics are particularly alarming when compared to data regarding emergency room treatment for pedestrians overall. In total, fewer pedestrians required emergency room care for injuries suffered in 2010 than 2004. In fact, just 41,000 pedestrians were treated in emergency rooms in 2010 compared to 97,000 in 2004.

Pedestrian Accidents Are A Serious Issue In Ohio

In Ohio, around 100 pedestrians were killed in collisions in 2011, according to the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Pedestrian deaths accounted for over 10 percent of all the traffic fatalities in Ohio that year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. In addition, over 2,280 pedestrians suffered injuries in accidents with motor vehicles in Ohio in 2011.

Across the country, the number of pedestrians killed in motor vehicle accidents rose 3 percent from 2010 to 2011. In all, over 4,430 pedestrians died in auto accidents in 2011, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Pedestrian fatalities accounted for 14 percent of traffic deaths in the United States in 2011.

While other motorists are often responsible for pedestrian accidents, pedestrians can take some measures to protect themselves when on the road. Of course, it is a good idea to put your phone away when traveling by foot, to avoid being the victim of a distracted walking accident. In addition, pedestrians should use sidewalks and crosswalks whenever available and walk toward traffic when they must walk on the road.

When someone suffers injuries or an individual is killed in a pedestrian accident, the motorist responsible for the collision should be held responsible. If you or someone you love has been involved in a pedestrian crash in Ohio, you should seek the advice of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney, who will work with you to make certain your rights are protected.