(Image Source- Fox News)

BY BRIAN BONDUS

ANCHOR LAUREN GORES

Turn down the volume, because the numbers are in. A University of Maryland study shows more pedestrians are wearing headphones-- and paying the consequences, because of it. WJLA breaksdown the numbers.

“A new study finds that the number of people killed or injured while walking with headphones on has tripled of the last seven years.”

The study’s lead author says 70 percent of the injuries were fatal. And in nearly 30 percent percent of the accidents-- horns or sirens were used just prior to the collision. Toronto’s CTV explains why music is so distracting.

“The devices can cause ‘inattentional blindness,’ meaning multiple stimuli divide the user's attention. ... the sounds coming through the earphones mask the sound of the train or car horns.”

The study says men under the age of 30 are the most likely to be hit with their headphones on. WXIX found a member of that demographic who argues common sense should keep him safe.

“It doesn't really concern me. I feel if you utilized sidewalks and pay attention to pedestrian signs you should be good to go.”

Researchers say as portable devices improve and become more enticing, the risk of injury will also increase.