Mobile danger

Using mobiles could be as dangerous for pedestrians as for drivers, research shows.

Thousands of pedestrians are risking death and injury every day by using mobile phones and MP3 players while crossing busy roads.

NRMA Insurance research shows that a significant number of pedestrian/car accidents are the result of people using technology on the run.

"The main concern is that the technology forces us to split our attention between two tasks, which can be dangerous if were crossing or exercising on busy roads," NRMA Insurance spokesperson John Hallal said.

"If you're listening to an MP3 player while walking, you're not likely to hear what's happening around you. Hearing is important for pedestrians, especially those using roadways to exercise because it can alert them to approaching danger.

"Warning noises like car horns and emergency sirens are used for a reason and they need to be responded to quickly."

Mr Hallal also said mobile phones could be as big a distraction for pedestrians as they are for drivers.

"Talking on a mobile phone can cause pedestrians to take unintentional risks on the roads such as crossing against a red signal or stepping out between vehicles.

"Most people have seen examples of pedestrians who are talking on their mobile phones and just walk out into the path of an oncoming car because their attention is on the conversation rather than on the traffic," he said.

Texting is a particular risk as most people look at their mobile screens to either read or send the messages.

"We recommend pedestrians don’t use MP3 players while walking or jogging in busy traffic and stop to have a conversation on a mobile or write a text," Mr Hallal said.