Traffic accidents involving pedestrians are on the rise across Florida, safety officials are warning.
More than 12,200 pedestrian crashes occurred statewide in 2024, according to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. The total was up 19% from the previous year and marked a 25% increase over a five-year span.
Pedestrians are more likely to die or suffer serious injuries than others when involved in crashes, FLHMSV said. More than 700 pedestrians died in traffic collisions in 2024, while another 1,350 were seriously injured.
“Our troopers see firsthand the devastating impact of pedestrian-involved crashes,” said Florida Highway Patrol Colonel Gary Howze. “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.”
A tragic accident in February highlights the risks for people traveling on foot. An Ocala man was killed after being struck by two cars while walking near The Villages.
The 64-year-old man was walking along the shoulder of County Road 475 when he attempted to cross the highway north of County Road 466, according to Villages-News. He was first struck by a GMC pickup truck and then hit by an Acura sedan.
A woman in a wheelchair died less than a month later when she was mowed down by a sport utility vehicle while trying to cross Highway 27 in Ocala.
Staying Safe on the Road
State and federal traffic safety officials are encouraging everyone on the road to take heed as part of Pedestrian Safety Month. They said pedestrians and drivers can take several steps to try to avoid accidents, especially during darker hours.
Pedestrians should walk on sidewalks and paths whenever possible and should walk facing traffic when not possible. They also should cross streets and roads at designated intersections.
Drivers should be on the lookout for pedestrians and take extra care in difficult weather conditions and during darker hours. They should slow down and be prepared to stop when turning or otherwise entering a crosswalk.
Even with these precautions, crashes can and do happen. Anyone who is injured in a traffic accident in Florida has the right to seek compensation from those responsible for the collision. In the tragic situation that a person dies in a pedestrian crash, his or her loved ones have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim.
Speak With a Villages Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car, truck, motorcycle, golf cart or other accident, it is vital to seek the advice of an experienced lawyer. Villages injury attorney Tim Babiarz has been fighting for people and families across the community for more than two decades.
Our office is conveniently located in the Villages. We are also proud to represent clients throughout the area, including in Ocala, Leesburg, Lady Lake, Wildwood, Summerfield, and beyond. Call (352) 205-7559 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with a Villages injury attorney.
