“Safety Starts With You” shouldn’t just be a slogan
Walking across a busy street can feel a bit like stepping into a game of chess. Every move matters, every glance could change the outcome, and one careless decision can cost far more than a piece. This October, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) and the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) are reminding everyone that on our roadways, safety isn’t just a strategy; it’s survival.
This month, Florida is joining the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in recognizing National Pedestrian Safety Month with the theme “Safety Starts With You.” It’s a message meant to make every driver, cyclist, and pedestrian stop and think: every one of us has a role in keeping Florida’s roads safe. The goal is to help prevent traffic accidents that often lead to pedestrian fatalities and serious injuries.
Why is pedestrian safety such a big issue in Florida?
Florida’s sunshine and walkable neighborhoods may invite people outdoors year-round, but those same conditions also make the state one of the most dangerous for pedestrians. According to FLHSMV data, pedestrians have the highest fatality rate among all road users in Florida.
From busy intersections to quiet neighborhood crosswalks, pedestrians share space with motorists, bicyclists, and even commercial vehicles, and the risks are growing. In 2024 alone, Florida recorded 12,223 pedestrian crashes, nearly a 19% increase from 2023.
The good news is that fatalities and serious injuries actually declined for the second straight year, showing that awareness efforts and enforcement are beginning to work. Still, every statistic represents someone’s loved one (e.g., a father, a sister, a friend), and that’s why officials say the work is far from over.
What do the numbers tell us about Florida’s progress?
Despite the jump in crash totals, the state’s most recent data shows signs of progress. In 2024, fatalities dropped to 706, down from 779 in 2023, and serious bodily injuries (SBIs) fell to 1,354, compared to 1,431 the previous year.
While these figures still represent too many lives lost, the downward trend in deaths and injuries suggests that safety initiatives are working. The message is resonating, but staying vigilant remains key as population growth and increased foot traffic put more people on the roads.
What’s the goal of Florida's “Safety Starts With You” campaign?
This year’s campaign isn’t just another safety reminder. It’s a call to accountability. At any moment, we can all be pedestrians or drivers, and crash data reveals that fault is shared almost evenly between the two groups. That means improving safety isn’t about pointing fingers; it’s about shared responsibility.
FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner says pedestrian safety remains a top priority:
“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. Safety Starts With You, and together, we can prevent tragedies and protect lives.”
And for Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E., the mission is clear:
“Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility. Alongside our partners, we’re continuing to implement pedestrian safety projects and educate motorists and pedestrians on making safe decisions when traveling throughout the state.”
Together, these agencies want to make Florida’s roads safer through a mix of education, awareness, and enforcement, because a culture of safety begins with informed choices.
What can be done to prevent Florida pedestrian accidents?
Drivers have tremendous power to prevent tragedy with just a few seconds of awareness. FLHSMV’s message to motorists is clear: slow down, stay alert, and always yield to pedestrians.
Here are a few tips that can make all the difference:
- Look out for pedestrians everywhere, all the time. They can appear suddenly, especially in low-light conditions.
- Slow down at crosswalks and intersections. Be prepared to stop if someone is crossing.
- Never pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk. It may be blocking your view of someone crossing ahead.
- Yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. It’s not just courteous, it’s the law.
- Follow posted speed limits, especially in school zones or neighborhoods where children play.
- Remember: every intersection is a crosswalk, marked or not, unless it’s officially closed with a sign.
- Stay alert when backing up in parking lots or driveways; pedestrians can easily slip into your blind spot.
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