A recent study found that Florida is the least safe state for pedestrians. The greater Orlando area is the deadliest urban center for pedestrians. More than 550 pedestrians were killed in the last 10 years alone.
The greater Tampa, Jacksonville, and Miami areas rounded out the top four most dangerous metropolitan areas for pedestrians.
Nationwide, more than 47,700 pedestrians died in traffic accidents the past 10 years. More than 688,000 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents, a number equivalent to one pedestrian being struck by a vehicle every 7 minutes. Pedestrians account for nearly 12% of the total number of traffic deaths. More than half of pedestrian accidents occur in wide, multi-lane roads that are designed to move a large number of vehicles.
The Center for Disease Control estimates that in the next 24 hours, 324 people will be treated in an emergency room for pedestrian-related injuries. In the next two hours, approximately one pedestrian will die in a traffic accident.
In order to remain safe while walking, remember to:
Cross streets at the corner and use traffic signals and crosswalks whenever they are available.Try to make eye contact with the driver: just because you see him does not mean that he sees you.
Walk on sidewalks and paths.When crossing the street, look both ways. Remember to look for cars that are turning or backing up. At night, carry a flashlight and wear reflective clothing.
If you or your child are involved in a pedestrian-related accident and have sustained injuries, contact an attorney to make sure your legal rights are protected.