Walking While Using A Smartphone Can Be Dumb

DENVER (CBS4)- Cellphone use can be not only dangerous for drivers, it's also dangerous for people who use their phone while walking.

Researchers at Ohio State University claim the number of people getting hurt while walking and using a cell phone is increasing.

Numerous videos on YouTube show people falling down stairs, missing their chairs, falling off a train platform, even falling eight feet off a bridge.

"We see all types of injuries but generally it tends to be related to a fall of some kind. Broken wrists, abrasions, road rash, occasionally something to the head," said Dr. Seth Podolsky with the Cleveland Clinic.

The number of people injured from walking while using cell phones has increased from 256 in 2005 to more than 1,500 nationwide in 2010.

The study shows 16 to 25-year-olds were the most likely to be hurt and that talking on the phone causes more injuries than texting. Men are hurt more often then women while walking and texting.

Researchers say they expect the numbers to keep going up, possibly doubling by the end of this year.

Doctors caution the rules of the road should apply to the sidewalk when using a cellphone.

"It's always a good idea to stop and stay put when you're talking on the phone or texting. That's whether you're in a car or walking down the sidewalk," said Podolsky.

Researchers recommend developing cell phones that lock while moving to prevent more injuries.