We all know distracted driving is dangerous and can cause deadly accidents, but distracted walking can be just as dangerous to both pedestrians and motorists alike.
Distracted walking includes activities such as texting or emailing while walking, using social media apps while walking, listening to music and even playing a game on the phone while walking.
These days with everyone constantly on their cell phones, distracted walking accidents are increasing at an alarming rate. According to the National Safety Council, over 6000 pedestrians were killed in motor vehicle accidents in 2018. Statistics from the National Highway and Transportation Safety Association show that most of these pedestrian deaths occurred in urban areas, such as the metro Atlanta, on the open road, and at night. The actual number of pedestrian injuries are probably even higher as these statistics focus on only the number of medically treated injuries and death. The problem has gotten so bad that some cities and states have either banned using a cell phone while walking or will fine those who violate such laws.
A pedestrian who is texting or on social media on his phone is less likely to notice an approaching vehicle, with serious consequences. A collision between a pedestrian and any motor vehicle, and even a bicycle, can result in serious injuries including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, brain injuries, and death. A distracted pedestrian is also more likely to trip or run into someone or something causing injury to himself and others.
If you have to be on your phone while walking, Safety.com has a few recommendations to make sure you stay safe. Hold your phone high so you can see any oncoming dangers. Cross the street only at crosswalks and obey all traffic signals. Use the voice recognition function so you don’t always have to type. And keep your volume at a reasonable level when listening to music so you can still hear your surroundings.
Pedestrians must be alert to their surroundings while walking in order to avoid the serious injuries that can result from an accident while distracted. Brain injuries can be serious injuries that have life-long consequences. Even a moderate brain injury can lead to long-term effects like cognitive impairment, reduction in concentration and attention spans, and memory loss. There may be personality changes like irritability and bursts of anger. Significant changes in personality are not uncommon after brain injury.
All of these consequences can impact a person’s ability to lead a normal and productive life. Many people who suffer a brain injury find that they cannot return to the job they worked at before the injury because they no longer have the skills required to perform the job. A brain injury not only has a significant impact on the victim’s life, but also on their family members and caregivers. This can lead to depression, which is a common consequence of a traumatic brain injury.
If your loved one has suffered a brain injury in a pedestrian accident or any other type of accident, contact an Atlanta pedestrian accident lawyer at the Katz Personal Injury Lawyers, and request a free evaluation of your case.