Florida Ranks as Most Dangerous State for Pedestrians

According to a report by Washington-based Transportation for America (T4A), Florida is the most dangerous state for pedestrians. Using a devised rating system called the Pedestrian Danger Index (PDI), T4A ranked Florida at 182.8. The next worst state, South Carolina, scored a significantly lower 124.1, and only eleven states scored over 100. Not only is Florida ranked as the overall worst, but Florida also sweeps the top four of the rankings of the most dangerous metro areas. 

The four worst areas for pedestrian safety in the United States were the Orlando-Kissimmee metro area, Tampa-St.Petersburg-Clearwater metro area, Jacksonville metro area and Miami-Fort Lauderdale-Pompano Beach metro area. The study also showed that Hispanics, African Americans, low-income groups, and the elderly were more susceptible to pedestrian accident deaths. 

Pedestrian fatalities represent a significant problem in the United States, as 47,000 people were killed in the United States from 2000-2009. The National Safety Council estimates the comprehensive cost, including both economic costs and diminished quality of life, for each traffic death at $4.3 million. This means that in the last decade alone, pedestrian deaths cost the United States $180 billion, and Florida alone $22 billion.

As shown in the study by T4A, Florida consistently trends as more dangerous than anywhere else in the country, but due to the tough economic times, pedestrian safety may be overlooked. When money is tight and spending needs to be cut, funding for sidewalks and bike lanes is one of the first things to go. Without a dramatic change in policy or resources, the state may continue to see a large number of pedestrian accidents. 

When a pedestrian is struck by a car, it is often a result of the poor design or condition of streets, roads, and sidewalks, as well as negligence of the other driver. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Contact an experienced auto accident lawyer to find out if you have legal recourse. Fill out a risk-free, no-cost case evaluation today.