Distracted walking is a major safety hazard: pedestrians on their phones are 46% more likely to be involved in a vehicle crash. Using a phone while walking reduces traffic awareness, increases jaywalking, and causes trips or falls. Many cities even fine distracted walkers for crossing while typing.

Key Distracted Walking FactsPrevalence: About 60% of pedestrians are distracted while walking, with screen-based activities (texting/browsing) posing the highest risk to safe crossing behavior.

Impact: Injuries from distracted walking—ranging from tripping over curbs to stepping directly into traffic—have more than doubled since 2004.

Prevention: The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) provides specific Distracted Walking Guidelines to help you avoid falls, bruises, and collisions.

https://www.nsc.org/community-safety/safety-topics/pedestrian-safety#/