Six metropolitan areas in Florida were identified as having the highest numbers of pedestrian accidents in the United States.
A study from Smart Growth America (an urban planning organization) investigated pedestrian accident statistics across the country from 2008 to 2017. Their research determined which areas in the nation have the highest rate of pedestrian deaths, and listed Florida cities in the top six spots.
The central region of Florida — in Orlando, Kissimmee, Sanford, and the surrounding areas — topped the list with 656 pedestrian fatalities in the studied time period. In the United States, 49,340 people were killed in pedestrian accidents between the years of 2008 and 2017. Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach, Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville, North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton, Lakeland-Winter Haven, and Jacksonville were determined as the next five most dangerous cities, following the Orlando metro area. In the state of Florida, a total of 5,433 pedestrians were killed.
In addition to Florida, Alabama, Delaware, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Georgia were identified as the most dangerous states for pedestrians.
How to Stay Safe When Crossing the Street
If you are out walking across streets, in parking lots, or in other areas where there is a high volume of cars, it is important to be observant to protect yourself from pedestrian accidents.
In addition to the classic advice to “look both ways,” you can do these things to stay safe when crossing the street:
- Don’t jaywalk — always use designated crosswalks
- Watch out for cars before and during crossing the street
- Wear visible clothing when walking at night
Were You Injured in a Pedestrian Accident?
People who are struck by vehicles while walking often sustain severe injuries. The damages resulting from pedestrian accidents may include extensive medical bills, vehicle repair costs, expenses caused by an inability to work, and funeral costs (in cases of death).
At Frohlich, Gordon & Beason, P.A., we’re committed to helping families recover from the harm caused by someone else’s negligence. If you have an injury case, contact us today.
Complete our contact form or call (941) 979-9010 for a no-cost evaluation of your case.