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Pedestrian accidents are a problem in Philadelphia, like in many areas of the United States. At least one study suggests that the popularity of iPods and other electronic listening devices in recent years has contributed to the growing number of people on foot being hit by automobiles and trains.
An associate professor at the University of Maryland School of Medicine stated that people are aware of the dangers of using a cellphone and texting while driving, but few recognize the link between headphones and pedestrian accidents.
The professor led a study that determined serious injuries to pedestrians listening to headphones have more than tripled in the past six years. The study reviewed 116 accidents involving pedestrians being hit by cars or trains from 2004 to 2011.
The study found that 70 percent of the accidents were fatal, and 68 percent of the victims were male and under 30. Additionally, the study showed that 29 percent of the drivers claimed to have sounded the horn before the pedestrian accident.
“The increased incidence of accidents over the years closely corresponds to documented rising popularity of auditory technologies with headphones,” the university concluded in a statement.
The study was commenced after a student was killed by a train while crossing railroad tracks with headphones on. Reportedly, the train had been blowing its whistle, but the student could not hear it.
This is a good reminder for pedestrians in Philadelphia and elsewhere. Although we’d like to trust that drivers will see us and stop for us, there are many times that they do not. This is why pedestrians must stay fully alert of their surroundings.
Source: USA Today, “Study: More headphone-wearing walkers hit by cars,” Chris Woodyard, Jan. 17, 2012