Multiple studies have demonstrated the dangers of texting and driving. Talking on a hand-held device causes distraction and driving impairments similar to those observed when people are drunk.

For this reason, in many states talking on a hand-held device while driving is against the law.

Researchers at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver, Canada, now report the potential danger of pedestrian phone use while crossing the street.

Whether they are texting, reading, or talking, use of phones led to smaller steps and slower and more erratic crossings — all behaviors that increase the risk of being hit by a car.

The study indicated that phone use while crossing streets is quite common. The researchers reported that 38 percent of pedestrians were using their cell phone while crossing the street.