Texting While Walking - Can I Sue Or Get Sued For A Pedestrian Accident?

You may have seen our post on Facebook about selfie-related deaths in Russia last month (https://www.facebook.com/ThePaganoLawFirmLlc/) and we're here today with a related public service announcement.

Texting while walking can lead to as many, if not more, issues as taking selfies in dangerous places. While texting and walking may seem normal, or easy to do, or not as dangerous as texting and driving, that's really not the case. If you're walking down the street with your gaze glued to your mobile device, you are far less aware of your surroundings, just like you're distracted by the electronic device behind the wheel. Being distracted means falling, tripping over things you would have seen if your gaze wasn't narrowed to a 4-inch screen, walking across the street when it's not your turn to do so, stumbling into traffic or into water or ditches, and generally causing yourself or others around you harm.

Some studies have indicated almost a 50% increase in the likelihood that a pedestrian will walk into traffic if he is on his phone. In 2010, the number of texting while walking accidents actually surpassed the number of texting while driving accidents.

So, pay attention out there, when you're a pedestrian. If you want to avoid pedestrian accidents, it can wait until you're home, or at the office, or the store or simply somewhere stationary. If you or someone you know is the victim of a pedestrian accident and it is not your fault, contact our Media Law Offices and set up a free consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.

And, while you're driving, be aware of pedestrians distracted by their mobile devices. If you hit someone and they are injured, chances are you will indeed get sued even if you believe you weren't at fault. If you are served with a lawsuit of this type, contact your insurance company to see if you are covered.