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Distracted walking is becoming a major safety concern. In 2017, almost 6,000 pedestrians were killed.
Causes of Distracted Walking
Interestingly, the rise in distracted walking accidents has occurred at the same time the US experienced an increase in smartphone usage. Millennials between the ages of 18 and 34 are more likely to engage in common distracted walking behaviors. What might be surprising, though, is that evidence indicates women ages 55 and older are the most likely to suffer serious injuries.
While one may suspect that smartphone use contributes to this trend, it is by no means the only cause of inattentiveness while walking. Other possible causes of distracted walking may include personal problems, deadline focus, or complacency.
Causes of Distracted Walking
Interestingly, the rise in distracted walking accidents has occurred at the same time the US experienced an increase in smartphone usage. Millennials between the ages of 18 and 34 are more likely to engage in common distracted walking behaviors. What might be surprising, though, is that evidence indicates women ages 55 and older are the most likely to suffer serious injuries.
While one may suspect that smartphone use contributes to this trend, it is by no means the only cause of inattentiveness while walking. Other possible causes of distracted walking may include personal problems, deadline focus, or complacency.
Common Risks Associated With Distracted Walking
Common injuries pedestrians risk when they engage in distracted walking include:
- Sprains and strains
- Fractured or broken bones
- Cuts
- Bruises
Many people believe themselves to be the exception when it comes to distracted walking. However, a study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that 75 percent of respondents said that "other people" walk around distracted, while only 29 percent admitted to being guilty themselves. Moreover, only 46 percent of these considered their behavior "dangerous."
There is scientific evidence suggesting that no one can truly multitask and people can only give their full mental attention to one thing at a time. Trying to keep track of more than one activity or thought process leaves you switching focus constantly and your brain playing catch-up.
Preventing Distracted Walking Accidents at Work
As a manager or employer, it is your duty to stress these points to your employees. Consider expressing that no deadline or production goal is worth risking injury and that, no matter how often they perform a task, there are still risks involved. It could also help to exercise extra caution at times when they know they are not functioning at their best, whether it be due to factors such as lack of sleep, illness, or stress.
Depending on the work environment, you may want to establish a limited or no cell phone policy. This measure is especially appropriate in settings like construction sites where heavy equipment, open trenches, trip hazards and a multitude of other life-threatening hazards abound. Limiting cell phone use to break times and in designated safe zones could prevent an unnecessary injury or avoid a life-threatening accident.
Those who walk around distracted pose a very real threat to themselves and those around them. There is little you can do as an employer to combat this trend on the street. However, you can raise your employees' awareness of the issue, establish reasonable rules and help them protect themselves and your business from the risks involved while on the job.
Common injuries pedestrians risk when they engage in distracted walking include:
- Sprains and strains
- Fractured or broken bones
- Cuts
- Bruises
Many people believe themselves to be the exception when it comes to distracted walking. However, a study by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that 75 percent of respondents said that "other people" walk around distracted, while only 29 percent admitted to being guilty themselves. Moreover, only 46 percent of these considered their behavior "dangerous."
There is scientific evidence suggesting that no one can truly multitask and people can only give their full mental attention to one thing at a time. Trying to keep track of more than one activity or thought process leaves you switching focus constantly and your brain playing catch-up.
Preventing Distracted Walking Accidents at Work
As a manager or employer, it is your duty to stress these points to your employees. Consider expressing that no deadline or production goal is worth risking injury and that, no matter how often they perform a task, there are still risks involved. It could also help to exercise extra caution at times when they know they are not functioning at their best, whether it be due to factors such as lack of sleep, illness, or stress.
Depending on the work environment, you may want to establish a limited or no cell phone policy. This measure is especially appropriate in settings like construction sites where heavy equipment, open trenches, trip hazards and a multitude of other life-threatening hazards abound. Limiting cell phone use to break times and in designated safe zones could prevent an unnecessary injury or avoid a life-threatening accident.
Those who walk around distracted pose a very real threat to themselves and those around them. There is little you can do as an employer to combat this trend on the street. However, you can raise your employees' awareness of the issue, establish reasonable rules and help them protect themselves and your business from the risks involved while on the job.
