Florida officials urge drivers and pedestrians to exercise caution as state recognizes National Pedestrian Safety Month
Tallahassee, Florida – October marks National Pedestrian Safety Month, and state officials are using the opportunity to remind both drivers and walkers that safety on Florida roads is a shared responsibility. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), together with the Florida Highway Patrol, in partnership with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), are leading the campaign under the banner “Safety Starts With You.” The initiative emphasizes awareness, education, and enforcement as key elements in preventing pedestrian-related crashes and fatalities across the state.
Pedestrian safety is a critical concern in Florida, where walkers face the highest fatality rate of any group of road users. According to state crash data, pedestrian fatalities occur at an alarming rate, often at intersections, crosswalks, sidewalks, and other common road areas. The data further indicates that fault is shared between drivers and pedestrians, underscoring the need for vigilance and accountability on both sides of the street. At any given moment, everyone on Florida roads is either a driver or a pedestrian, a fact that reinforces the importance of mutual caution.
“Pedestrian safety is a public safety priority, and this campaign reflects our commitment to reducing fatalities through awareness, education, and enforcement,” said 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. Safety Starts With You, and together, we can prevent tragedies and protect lives.”
Kerner’s message comes as part of a broader effort to educate residents about the risks pedestrians face on Florida’s roads and how everyone can reduce those risks. State officials note that simple behaviors, such as using crosswalks, staying alert, and following traffic signals, can make the difference between life and death. The campaign encourages a proactive approach, reminding walkers to be seen and motorists to slow down, especially in high-traffic areas, school zones, and neighborhoods.
Colonel Gary Howze of the Florida Highway Patrol echoed these sentiments, noting the firsthand impact troopers witness in pedestrian-related crashes. “Our troopers see firsthand the devastating impact of pedestrian involved crashes,” he said. “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.”
The campaign also highlights the importance of practical precautions for pedestrians themselves. Officials urge walkers to use sidewalks whenever possible, and when none are available, to walk facing oncoming traffic while keeping as far from vehicles as possible. Distractions such as headphones and mobile devices should be avoided, and pedestrians should remain alert to their surroundings at all times. Crossing streets at marked crosswalks or intersections is encouraged, while mid-block crossings should only occur when no other options exist, and even then, pedestrians must yield to oncoming traffic.
Visibility is another crucial factor for pedestrian safety. “Be visible at all times. Wear bright clothing during the day and wear reflective materials or use a flashlight at night. Never assume a driver sees you. Make eye contact with drivers as they approach to make sure you are seen,” state guidelines advise. This guidance reflects the reality that many pedestrian injuries occur due to motorists not noticing walkers until it is too late.
Motorists also play a critical role in ensuring pedestrian safety. Drivers are reminded to remain vigilant in all conditions, especially in low-light environments, during inclement weather, and when turning into crosswalks. Yielding to pedestrians is a legal requirement, and failure to do so carries penalties, including a minimum citation of $164 and three points on a driver’s license. Officials warn that violations not only carry fines but can also result in catastrophic injuries or fatalities.
Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E., emphasized the shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians. “Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility, and we urge all Floridians to always remain alert when walking or driving,” he said. “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.” Perdue noted that ongoing infrastructure projects, such as improved crosswalks, pedestrian signals, and traffic-calming measures, complement the awareness campaign by creating safer spaces for pedestrians to navigate.
Some specific tips for motorists include slowing down in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present, being prepared to stop when entering crosswalks, and never passing vehicles stopped for pedestrians. Drivers should also be especially cautious when backing up, as pedestrians can unexpectedly enter a vehicle’s path. The guidelines stress that all sides of intersections are considered crosswalks, whether or not they are marked, and that drivers must always be prepared to yield to pedestrians legally crossing the street.
The FLHSMV and FHP encourage community involvement in pedestrian safety. Residents are urged to participate by being conscious of their own behaviors, reporting unsafe conditions, and advocating for local improvements that protect walkers. Education campaigns, school programs, and public outreach initiatives play a key role in fostering a culture of awareness and responsibility.
Beyond individual actions, the campaign seeks to instill a broader mindset where pedestrian safety is prioritized in urban planning, roadway design, and traffic management. From neighborhoods and business districts to school zones and recreational areas, officials stress the need for a comprehensive approach that considers all road users. By combining infrastructure improvements, public awareness, and law enforcement, Florida aims to reduce pedestrian fatalities and injuries significantly.
National Pedestrian Safety Month serves as a timely reminder that road safety is a community effort. Whether walking, cycling, or driving, Floridians are encouraged to adopt safe habits, stay alert, and respect the rights of others. Through collective effort, the state hopes to prevent unnecessary tragedies and ensure that pedestrians can navigate Florida streets safely.
“Every action matters, and every person on the road has a role to play,” Kerner said. “This month, and every month, we can all take steps to save lives and make our roads safer for everyone.”
Residents seeking more information on pedestrian safety resources, educational programs, and outreach efforts can visit the FLHSMV website or contact their local highway patrol office for guidance and support.
