Pedestrians continue to put themselves at risk by plugging into MP3 players and mobile phones around traffic, according to NRMA Insurance.
With more than one pedestrian a day already injured on Queensland roads*, the insurer is urging those on foot to think twice before using portable gadgets around busy roads and intersections.
NRMA Insurance Queensland State Manager Brett Robinson said although mobile technology was part of every-day life, it had the potential to take our minds and eyes off the road around us.
"The main concern is that the technology forces us to split our attention between two tasks, which can be dangerous if we’re crossing or exercising on busy roads," he 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 when you’re around traffic. Car horns and emergency sirens are used for a reason but you’re likely to miss them, and other key traffic noises, if you’ve got ear-phones plugged in."
Mr Robinson also reminded pedestrians mobile phones could be as big a distraction for them as they were for drivers.
"Talking or texting on a mobile phone while moving about in busy traffic can be hazardous," he said.
"Many of us will have seen pedestrians who step into the path of an oncoming car while talking on a mobile phone, because their attention is on the conversation, not the road. Texting is also a problem because it takes our eyes and mind off the traffic around us."
Mr Robinson suggested pedestrians take extra care if using MP3 players while crossing busy roads and that they stop to have mobile phone conversations or write text mesages.
NRMA Insurance also reminded drivers to look out for pedestrians, especially in CBDs and school zones and during peak periods.
* Road traffic crashes in Queensland, Queensland Transport, 2003
** Queensland Injury Surveillance Unit and Queensland Transport data 1998-2005
