Distracted cell phone use causing more injuries

The age of smart phones is also bringing with it an increase in the number of people who are injured and killed because they were distracted.  While much attention has been focused on distracted driving, there is another growing concern - distracted walking.

According to a study by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety / Highway Loss Data Institute, pedestrian deaths have jumped 46% since 2009 as pedestrian crashes have become both deadlier and more frequent.

The study found that in many cases poor road design, lack of pedestrian median islands in multi-lane roads, and more powerful and larger vehicles, like SUV's and vans, are contributing factors.

It was also found that many vehicles need better headlights for low-light situations.

However, pedestrians being distracted are making things worse.

The National Electronic Injury Surveillance System, part of the Consumer Product Safety Commission, found U.S. emergency room visits due to injuries from phone use spiked 83.5% in 2016.

It is such a concern that the National Safety Council (NSC) has created a special video and web site dedicated to "Getting There Safely."

https://www.nsc.org/home-safety/safety-topics/distracted-walking

The NSC recommends:

-Looking all around before crossing and do it a second time

-Make eye contact with drivers of oncoming vehicles

-Don't wear headphones while walking

-Don't use a cell phone or electronic device while walking

-If your view is blocked, move to a place where you can see oncoming traffic

-Wear bright reflective clothing and only cross at designated crosswalks.

7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly has more in his report.