The dangers of distracted driving are well-documented, but distracted walking deserves equal concern. Both practices contribute to preventable accidents affecting drivers and pedestrians.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, distracted driving claimed 3,275 lives in 2023. That is roughly nine deaths every single day. But here is the part that people often miss: 611 pedestrians and other people died in distraction-affected crashes that same year.
Understanding these risks can help you and your family make safer choices on the road and sidewalk.
Why distractions are dangerous
Here are dangerous ways a driver can become distracted:
- Texting takes the eyes off the road for five seconds, which is long enough to cross an entire football field at 55 mph
- Hands-free phone calls reduce the ability to notice pedestrians and cyclists
- Eating, adjusting music or checking the GPS can all increase the risk of crashing
Pedestrians, on the other hand, can lose focus because of the following:
- Using smartphones while walking, especially for younger workers
- Earbuds that prevent joggers and walkers from hearing approaching vehicles
- Looking at screens near traffic delays reaction time when there is imminent danger
Understanding how both drivers and pedestrians get distracted matters because accidents can happen when either stops paying attention.
What you can do right now
Whether you are cruising through Riverside or enjoying a walk around San Diego, a few simple habits can keep you and your loved ones safe.
Before you even turn the key, put your phone away, finish off your food or drink and then plug in your destination into the GPS. Once you start driving, let your passengers manage the music and give directions while you keep your eyes on the road.
When walking near traffic with children, ask them to take out their earbuds and hold your hand when crossing the street. Take the time to teach them the basics: stop, look both ways and listen. Do not forget to keep the conversation age-appropriate and help them understand why staying alert matters without scaring them.
What to do when an accident happens
Even when you take all the precautions you can, accidents can still happen. When they do, injured individuals in California have several legal pathways available to them.
One crucial step is establishing liability. Under California’s comparative fault system, you can still pursue compensation even when you share some responsibility for what happened. For instance, a driver texting behind the wheel collides with you while you are distracted by your phone. Your recovery would be reduced based on how much you contributed to the incident.
Time limits matter significantly. California gives injury victims a two-year window from the accident date to file a claim. If you are seeking compensation for vehicle or property damage alone, that window extends to three years.
Documenting the scene with photos, gathering witness statements and seeking immediate medical attention strengthen your claim.
What this means for you
Both distracted driving and walking can lead to preventable car accidents and injuries. You cannot control every driver you encounter, but you can teach yourself and your children to walk and ride with full awareness. Should you find yourself in such a situation, seeking legal help will answer your questions and provide directions on the next step.
