Personal Electronics Linked to Rise in Pedestrian Accidents

CAMP HILL, PA, March 19, 2012 (Press-News.org) A study recently released by the University of Maryland found that pedestrian fatalities are on the rise due to distractions from headphone use. The majority of incidents were found among men younger than 30 who lived in urban areas.

The issue is that headphones playing music directly in pedestrians' ears may hinder their ability to hear oncoming car horns, revving engines, beeping crosswalk lights and even blaring train whistles. The study was conceived after a train killed a teenager wearing headphones while crossing railroad tracks. The teenager's music had drowned out the notable noise generated by the train.

The report could not conclude that headphones caused the deaths in the incidents examined, likely because driver negligence plays a substantial part in nearly every pedestrian accident. Yet, the results do highlight the impact of portable electronic devices on the safety of pedestrians and motorists alike: The presence of headphones does make an impact.

The results of the study are a reminder to people who choose to listen to music on portable mp3 players: Be alert, pay attention and look both ways when crossing the street or train tracks. Perhaps it's a good idea to look both ways twice.

Distracted Drivers, Quieter Cars Also to Blame

However, the overall rise in pedestrian deaths is not due only to headphones. Cellphone use among drivers is also a major factor, as the habits of texting and checking e-mail while driving have caused a rise in distracted driving. In fact, some reports have suggested that texting while driving is worse than driving under the influence of alcohol.

Another unexpected cause of pedestrian injuries and deaths is the increased use of hybrid cars. Hybrid cars use a combination of gas and electricity, and as a result, their engines are quieter. Pedestrians may not be used to such quiet cars and therefore may not even be aware when they are driving nearby. Quieter cars, in combination with distracted drivers and headphone-wearing pedestrians, contribute to a recipe for disaster.

With the use of personal electronic devices on the rise, it is a good idea to remain especially alert on the road to stay safe. Traffic-related injuries can be devastating. They cause pain and suffering, and victims incur medical bills and lost wages. Anyone injured by someone else's negligence should make sure they know their legal rights, as they may be able to recover for their injuries through a personal injury lawsuit. Contact an experienced Harrisburg car accident lawyer to discuss the specifics of your case.

Website: http://www.pa-injurylaw.com