Drivers Aren't the Only Ones Distracted; Pedestrians are too!

For some time I have voiced my opinion about using a cell phone while driving. It's clear and has been proved by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute  that it increases your chance of causing or being in an accident by 23 times!

If that isn't enough to make you put down your phone, then maybe this will:

Recent news has shown that using a cell phone or a device that can distract you- while walking-can also increase your chances of an accident.

Frankly, we can't pay attention to the roads around us, the people next us, the music in our ears, the text we're sending and expect to be aware of oncoming bicycles, cars and/or objects. This is called "inattention blindness." It's what happens when we are looking at something but can't register it in our brains because we are distracted by something else. Basically, we just can't see it.

In the news mentioned above, one study showed that people were so preoccupied; they missed a clown riding a unicycle that was right in front of them! Is it possible you've missed things as you surfed the web on your cell and walked the streets of Gainesville or Ocala? Most likely. So, as an experienced personal injury attorney, who has seen accidents negatively alter people's lives, I ask you to stay safe by focusing on one thing at a time, especially on busy streets!

For more information:

Graphic British Video Unveils the Dangers of Texting Behind the Wheel: A Must-See

Distracted Driving 101

Gorilla in Court 

Test Your Awareness: Do The Test