The incidence of teens getting hit by cars is on the rise, and their handhelds are likely to blame.

Safe Kids Worldwide recently reported pedestrian injuries rose 25 percent among teens ages 16 to 19 from 2006 to 2010, compared with 2001 to 2005. Interestingly, pedestrian injuries dropped in nearly every other age group. The organization linked the increase in teen injuries directly to using electronics and handheld devices while walking.

According to Safe Kids, teens put themselves in danger by “distracted walking.” While texting or using their handheld, they may inadvertently walk in front of oncoming cars. Compounding the risk is the fact that drivers themselves may be distracted.

While overall the death rate for pedestrian children is declining, it’s not declining as quickly for teens. Federal highway safety data indicates teen pedestrian death rates are more than three times as high as those for children ages 5 to 9.

Tell your teen traffic and technology don’t mix, whether they’re behind the wheel or cruising the old-fashioned way—on foot.