Florida has been identified as the nation’s most dangerous state for pedestrians, with eight of the top 10 most dangerous metro areas for pedestrians located within the state. This alarming statistic is highlighted in reports by the National Complete Streets Coalition, a program of Smart Growth America, AARP, and other organizations.
The specific metropolitan areas in Florida that are particularly hazardous for pedestrians are as follows:
- Orlando-Kissimmee-Sanford: This area was ranked as the most dangerous metro area in the nation for pedestrians, with a high number of pedestrian fatalities and a significant Pedestrian Danger Index.
- Deltona-Daytona Beach-Ormond Beach: This region also ranks high in pedestrian fatalities and danger, reflecting the widespread issue across the state.
- Palm Bay-Melbourne-Titusville: With a notable number of pedestrian fatalities, this area adds to the state’s grim reputation for pedestrian safety.
- North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton: This metro area, like others in Florida, has a concerning record of pedestrian fatalities.
- Lakeland-Winter Haven: This area’s inclusion in the list underscores the statewide issue of pedestrian safety.
- Jacksonville: Jacksonville’s high pedestrian fatality rate further highlights the risks pedestrians face in Florida.
- Cape Coral-Fort Myers: Ranked eighth in terms of pedestrian danger, this area has a significant number of pedestrian fatalities relative to its population size.
- Tampa-St. Petersburg-Clearwater: Although ranked seventh, this area has shown some improvement over previous years, reflecting efforts to enhance pedestrian safety. Initiatives such as better lighting, beacon crossings, and separated bike lanes are examples of steps taken to reduce pedestrian fatalities.
Additionally, Miami-Fort Lauderdale-West Palm Beach is another Florida metro area with a high number of pedestrian fatalities, ranking 14th in the study. Despite not being in the top 10, its inclusion in the list is notable.
These findings indicate a critical need for improved pedestrian safety measures in Florida. The efforts to make streets more bike- and pedestrian-friendly, such as the “Complete Streets” initiative, aim to address these dangers. However, the consistently high rankings of Florida metro areas in terms of pedestrian danger suggest that more comprehensive and effective strategies are required to protect pedestrians in the state.