Effects of Distracted Pedestrian Behavior on Transportation Safety: Causes and Contributing Factors

Pedestrian distraction poses significant risks at signalized intersections, especially in populated urban areas. This study investigates the primary causes of pedestrian distraction to determine the contributing factors affecting crossing behavior. Data were collected from ten signalized intersections by conducting in-person interviews, performing real-time observation, and reviewing video recordings. The study used binary logistic regression and Heuristic Bin analysis to examine different levels of distraction among pedestrians. Three major types of pedestrian distractions were identified: visual, auditory, and cognitive distractions. From the regression analysis, two models were developed to predict moderate and high levels of distraction based on factors such as age, intersection location, walking behavior, use of electronic devices, and awareness of traffic signals. The results indicated that smartphone usage and earphones were the predominant sources of distraction. Pedestrians walking in pairs demonstrated higher levels of distraction than those walking alone or in groups. Heuristic Bins analysis revealed that females were slightly more distracted than males while walking alone, in pairs, or in a group. Pedestrians also tended to be more distracted when they were walking in pairs than when walking alone or in groups.