Florida Sees Sharp Rise in Pedestrian Crashes: FLHSMV Urges Vigilance During National Pedestrian Safety Month

As pedestrian crashes climb nearly 19% statewide over the last year, the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles and Florida Highway Patrol are using October’s National Pedestrian Safety Month to call for renewed caution and shared responsibility on Florida’s roadways.

With the theme “Safety Starts With You,” this campaign—supported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)—highlights the critical need for both drivers and pedestrians to remain alert, visible, and accountable in preventing tragedies across the Sunshine State.

A Troubling Increase, Despite Fewer Fatalities

According to FLHSMV data, Florida saw 12,223 pedestrian crashes in 2024, a nearly 19% increase from 2023. While fatalities have fortunately decreased for a second consecutive year—from 779 deaths in 2023 to 706 in 2024—the overall number of crashes remains alarmingly high.

The most recent data also shows that pedestrian crashes most frequently occur during evening hours—particularly around 8 p.m.—and in the months of December, March, and October.

“Pedestrian safety is a public safety priority, and this campaign reflects our commitment to reducing fatalities through awareness, education, and enforcement,” said FLHSMV Executive Director Dave Kerner. “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.”

FHP Colonel Gary Howze echoed the urgency, noting that 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.”

Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. added that pedestrian safety requires cooperation across all forms of travel. “Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility, and we urge all Floridians to remain alert when walking or driving,” Perdue said. “Alongside our partners, we’re continuing to implement safety projects and educate both motorists and pedestrians.”

Tips for Pedestrians

• Stay alert and avoid distractions such as phones or headphones.

• Use sidewalks and crosswalks whenever available.

• Wear bright or reflective clothing and carry a flashlight at night.

• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing and never assume they see you.

• Walk facing traffic if no sidewalk is available and stay as far from the roadway as possible.

Tips for Drivers

• Always look for pedestrians, especially in low-visibility conditions or at night.

• Slow down in crosswalks, neighborhoods, and school zones.

• Yield to pedestrians and never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk.

• Be especially cautious when backing up in parking lots or driveways.

• Obey all speed limits—especially in areas where people are walking or biking.

Failure to yield to pedestrians legally crossing an intersection can result in a $164 citation and three points on a driver’s license—and far worse, the loss of a life.

A Shared Mission to Save Lives

The message from state safety officials is clear: every decision on the road can save—or cost—a life. As pedestrian activity increases during Florida’s busy fall and winter months, both motorists and walkers are urged to slow down, pay attention, and remember that “Safety Starts With You.”

For more information on pedestrian safety and tips for safer travel, visit FLHSMV.gov.