Pedestrian Safety Tips

For millions of Florida residents, walking is more than a form of exercise or a fun pastime. It’s how they get around. But while being a pedestrian may save you money, it can also put your safety at risk.

In 2022 alone, Florida saw over 10,000 pedestrian-related crashes, resulting in more than 750 pedestrian deaths. These staggering numbers highlight the urgent need for greater awareness and pedestrian safety tips.

It’s not just pedestrians or motorists who bear the responsibility for these accidents—both parties must take active steps to stay safe and prevent further tragedies. Whether you’re walking to work or driving through a busy intersection, understanding pedestrian safety is crucial to reducing these numbers.

At Beers & Gordon, we’re committed to helping our community stay informed and protected. Here are essential tips to keep pedestrians safe in Florida.

Wondering if you have a case?

Talk to a lawyer today.

Call or Text (407) 862-1825

What Is a Pedestrian?

While it may seem obvious, Florida law defines exactly who is considered a pedestrian.

According to state regulations, anyone traveling on foot is classified as a pedestrian. This includes not only walkers and runners but also those using skateboards, roller skates, or wheelchairs.

It’s important to note that bicyclists are not considered pedestrians in Florida and must follow a different set of laws designed specifically for cyclists. Understanding these distinctions helps ensure that everyone on the road knows their responsibilities and stays safe.

Florida’s Pedestrian Laws

Many of Florida’s pedestrian laws are rooted in common sense: don’t run into traffic, don’t stand in the roadway, and always be mindful of your surroundings. However, understanding specific legal guidelines is essential for ensuring safety.

Here are some important laws to follow as a pedestrian in Florida.

• Pedestrians are required to follow all pedestrian signals, such as crosswalk signals, unless directed otherwise by a police officer.
• If sidewalks are available, pedestrians must use them; walking on the road is not permitted.
• If no sidewalks are provided, pedestrians should stay on the left shoulder and walk facing traffic to increase visibility.
• When crossing the street, pedestrians must either use marked crosswalks or, if none are available, cross at right angles to the road or by the shortest route.
• Jaywalking is not illegal in Florida; therefore, it is perfectly legal to cross the street mid-block.
• Pedestrians are not allowed to cross intersections diagonally unless a traffic signal specifically allows it.
• Motor vehicles are required to stop for pedestrians when there is a crosswalk signal, and even if no signal is present, vehicles must yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. If a pedestrian is not using a crosswalk, however, vehicles have the right of way.
• Finally, pedestrians are encouraged to stay on the right side of crosswalks whenever possible, keeping traffic flowing smoothly for both drivers and pedestrians.

Understanding and following these rules can go a long way in preventing accidents.

Do Pedestrians Have the Right of Way?

Pedestrians do not always have the right of way on Florida roads. As a pedestrian, if you are facing a red traffic light or steady DON’T WALK sign, you must yield to vehicle traffic. If the DON’T WALK sign is flashing or the WALK sign is illuminated, it means pedestrians can finish crossing and drivers must yield to pedestrians in the crosswalk.

As a driver, if you are exiting a private driveway onto a public street, you must yield the right of way to the pedestrian, just as you would oncoming traffic. Be careful when pulling out to look for pedestrians, especially those coming from the right when you are taking a right turn as many drivers are only focused on other vehicles.

Pedestrians are also not given leeway to enter a crosswalk at any time. They must give drivers an adequate amount of time to see them and stop safely.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

Staying safe as a pedestrian starts with being aware of your surroundings and taking proactive steps to avoid accidents.

Here are some essential tips to help you stay safe on Florida’s roads:

• Be Aware: The most important rule for pedestrian safety is staying aware of what’s happening around you. Avoid distractions like texting or wearing headphones, especially in high-traffic areas such as school zones or busy streets. Being alert allows you to react quickly to potential hazards, such as vehicles that may not see you.
• Double-Check Your Surroundings: Even when a pedestrian signal gives you the right of way, it’s always a good idea to look left, right, and left again before crossing the street. This extra precaution ensures no cars are coming, particularly when visibility is low or drivers are distracted.
• Remain Visible: To stay safe, make sure you are visible to drivers at all times. If walking at night, wear bright or reflective clothing or carry a flashlight. Keep in mind that heavy rain, which is common in Florida, can reduce visibility even during the day, so take extra care in those conditions.
• Make Eye Contact: Before crossing in front of any vehicle, make sure to make eye contact with the driver. This helps ensure that they’ve seen you and are prepared to stop.
• Stay Hydrated: Florida’s hot and humid climate can make even short walks uncomfortable or dangerous. If you’re walking a long distance, especially during the summer, be sure to stay hydrated and take breaks if needed.

By following these simple tips, pedestrians can greatly reduce their risk of accidents and enjoy a safer experience on Florida’s roads.

Pedestrian Safety Tips For Motorists

Pedestrian safety isn’t just the responsibility of those on foot—drivers play a crucial role in keeping roads safe. Here are a few important tips for motorists to ensure the safety of pedestrians:

• Follow the Posted Speed Limit: Speed limits are designed to protect both drivers and pedestrians. Obeying them, especially in areas where pedestrians are more likely to be present, reduces the risk of serious accidents.
• Be Aware of Pedestrians: Always be on the lookout for pedestrians, especially near crosswalks, intersections, and busy streets. Be prepared to stop at any time, even if a pedestrian steps out unexpectedly. In beach areas, be especially aware of pedestrians crossing to get to the beach as many are tourists and/or individuals may not be as focused as they may normally be.
• Remove Distractions: Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents. Avoid using your cell phone or other distractions while driving. Keeping your focus on the road ensures you’ll be able to react quickly to any pedestrians nearby.
• Practice Extra Caution in School Zones: School zones and school bus stops are high-risk areas for pedestrians, especially young children. Always reduce your speed, be alert, and follow any crossing guards or signals to ensure everyone stays safe.

By following these tips, motorists can learn how to share the road safely with pedestrians.

Conclusion

Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility between both pedestrians and motorists. By staying aware, following the rules of the road, and taking simple precautions, we can significantly reduce the risk of accidents and injuries.

Whether you’re walking through a busy intersection or driving near a school zone, your actions make a difference. At Beers & Gordon, we’re committed to promoting safety in our community.

If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian-related accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for legal assistance and guidance. Together, we can help keep our roads safe for everyone.