How Florida’s “Safety Starts With You” Campaign Could Prevent Pedestrian Accidents

Crossing a busy street can feel like walking a tightrope. One step too far in either direction, and balance is lost. This October, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) want everyone to find that balance again.

In partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Florida is observing National Pedestrian Safety Month under the message “Safety Starts With You.” It’s a simple but powerful reminder that whether you’re behind the wheel or walking across the street, staying alert can help prevent serious and fatal pedestrian accidents.

Why is pedestrian safety such a concern in Florida?

There’s no denying that Florida is a beautiful state for walking. From beachside boardwalks to bustling downtowns, people are always out and about. But with that activity comes risk.

According to FLHSMV, pedestrians in Florida experience the highest fatality rate among all types of road users. Sidewalks, intersections, and crosswalks are where most pedestrian crashes occur, often involving cars, bikes, and even large trucks.

In 2024, Florida reported 12,223 pedestrian crashes, a nearly 19% increase from the previous year. The encouraging news is that fatalities and serious injuries have both dropped for the second year in a row. Awareness campaigns, safety education, and stronger enforcement efforts are helping.

Still, these numbers make one thing clear: every person on the road, no matter how they travel, has a responsibility to stay alert and careful.

What’s behind the “Safety Starts With You” campaign?

This campaign isn’t just about statistics; it’s about shared responsibility. Crash data shows that in many cases, drivers and pedestrians share equal fault in collisions. That means both sides have a role to play in preventing tragedy.

FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner stated that pedestrian safety is one of the agency’s top priorities:

“It’s critical that drivers remain attentive to pedestrians, and that pedestrians take proactive steps to follow proper crossing protocols and ensure they’re visible to motorists," he said. "Safety Starts With You, and together, we can prevent tragedies and protect lives.”

Colonel Gary Howze of the Florida Highway Patrol echoed that message, urging drivers to slow down and stay focused:

“Our troopers see firsthand the devastating impact of pedestrian-involved crashes. We’re urging drivers to stay alert, slow down in pedestrian zones, and always yield the right of way. Lives depend on it, and every decision behind the wheel matters.”

Jared W. Perdue, P.E., Secretary of the Florida Department of Transportation, added that the state is committed to ongoing improvements:

“Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Alongside our partners, we’re continuing to implement safety projects and educate motorists and pedestrians on making safe decisions when traveling throughout the state.”

Together, these agencies are reminding Floridians that true safety comes from awareness, education, and respect on the road and on foot.

How can pedestrians stay safe while walking?

Walking may be one of the simplest ways to get around, but it’s not without risk. FLHSMV urges pedestrians to take extra care and stay visible when walking near traffic. At the same time, the bigger responsibility lies with drivers to follow the rules of the road, yield when required, and stay alert—especially in areas with high foot traffic.

Unfortunately, when a pedestrian is hit, insurance companies often try to shift the blame onto the pedestrian. Even when a driver clearly failed to yield or was distracted, insurers may point the finger at the pedestrian for crossing outside a marked crosswalk or for not wearing bright clothing. That’s why legal representation matters.

Here are a few reminders to help reduce risks:

• Stick to sidewalks whenever possible. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing oncoming traffic and stay as far off the roadway as you can.
• Keep your eyes up. Avoid distractions such as headphones or scrolling through your phone.
• Cross safely. Always cross at intersections or crosswalks, where drivers are most likely to expect you. If that’s not an option, pick a bright, well-lit spot and wait for a safe break in traffic.
• Never cross between parked cars or diagonally across an intersection unless signals permit.
• Look both ways twice. Watch for cars turning, pulling out of driveways, or backing up.
• Be seen. Wear light or reflective clothing after dark and make eye contact with drivers to ensure they see you before stepping into the street.

Staying safe as a pedestrian is important, but if you're injured by a negligent driver in Florida, don't let the insurance company twist the story. Talk to a Tavares pedestrian accident lawyer who can help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

What can drivers do to protect pedestrians?

For drivers, safety starts before the engine even turns over. Every time you get behind the wheel, you have the power to protect those on foot. FLHSMV’s message to drivers is to slow down, stay alert, and yield when you should.

Here’s how to make that happen:

• Look for pedestrians everywhere, especially in neighborhoods, near schools, or at crosswalks.
• Be ready to stop. Slow down when approaching intersections or turns.
• Never pass a stopped car at a crosswalk. You might not see someone crossing in front of them.
• Follow the law. Drivers must yield to pedestrians who are legally crossing. Ignoring that rule can result in a $164 fine and three points on your license.
• Remember that every intersection is a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or not.
• Adjust your speed for conditions such as rain, darkness, or busy areas, as they all require extra caution.
• Watch when reversing. Pedestrians, especially children, can easily slip into your blind spots.

Florida pedestrian accident statistics

Florida’s latest crash data paints a mixed picture: while total pedestrian crashes are up, the number of fatalities dropped from 779 in 2023 to 706 in 2024, and serious injuries decreased from 1,431 to 1,354.

Over the last five years, crashes have generally trended upward, peaking in 2024. Still, the decline in deaths and serious injuries shows that the state’s safety campaigns and enforcement efforts are starting to make a difference. Even so, with over 12,000 crashes in one year, there’s still plenty of work to be done.

Hit by a car and injured? Contact a Tavares pedestrian accident lawyer today.

If you were hurt in a pedestrian accident in Florida, the Law Offices of Brent C. Miller, P.A. can help you get back on your feet. We don't just see you as another case; we see you as someone who deserves a fierce advocate to level the playing field and fight for the compensation you need to rebuild.

Our Tavares pedestrian accident attorneys cut through the red tape, gather important evidence, and hold reckless drivers accountable. Whether you were struck in a crosswalk, on a sidewalk, or in a parking lot, we’ll stand by your side and help you find your way forward.

You shouldn’t have to worry about legal fees while recovering from injuries. That’s why we offer a free, no-obligation consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing up front for our services and nothing unless we win your case.

Serving Tavares, The Villages, Inverness, Clermont, and all of Central Florida, our team has the experience and resources to handle even the most complex cases, from hit-and-runs to liability disputes. Contact us for a free consultation, and let’s pave the way to the compensation you’re owed.

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