Chicago Accident and Injury Lawyer Blog

It is widely know that talking on a cell phone while driving is one of the most dangerous behaviors a driver can engage in, but a new study published in the journal "Accident Analysis and Prevention" shows that walking while talking on a cell phone can also be dangerous.

Researchers from the University of Illinois studied 36 college students as they walked on a treadmill in a "virtual environment" meant to simulate crossing a busy street. The subjects "crossed the street" while undistracted, while talking on a cell phone, or while listening to music on an iPod. The researchers found that the students who were talking on a phone took 25% longer to cross the street than those who were not on the phone. Moreover, those on the phone were less likely to cross the street in the 30 seconds allotted. Students not on the phone or listening to music had no problem crossing the street in the time permitted.

In a second, unpublished study, the researchers studied 48 adults, aged 60 and older, including some with a history of falling. Older adults on the phone got "run over" 15% more often than those who were not on the phone.

This study suggests that "distracted walking" can be just as hazardous as distracted driving. As pedestrians, we have a duty to be alert to traffic and to obey traffic signals and signs. Do your part to prevent pedestrian accidents by paying attention and minimizing distractions.