Teens using electronics more likely to be hit by cars

October 19, 2012 (WLS) -- Teens who cannot unplug from their favorite electronic devices may risk more than hearing problems and eye strain.

New research finds that as pedestrians, teenagers may be more likely to be struck by cars.

Doctors at NYU Langeone Medical Center say the study was triggered by the number of children who came into the hospital emergency room after pedestrian accidents.

Compared to adults, teenagers, in particular ages 13-17, were more likely to be using an electronic device when they were injured.

Besides electronic device use, children were often injured when they were unsupervised, when they crossed mid-block or when they darted into the street.

Many of the injuries were minor, including scrapes and road rash, although there were some head injuries.

The research is being presented Thursday at the American Academy of Pediatrics annual meeting in New Orleans.

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