According to 2014 pedestrian fatality data compiled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and published by the Auto Insurance Center, Florida is a very dangerous place to be a pedestrian. Below, we detail Florida’s ranking and its pedestrian dangers.

Florida’s Place on the Spectrum

Unfortunately, Florida ranked as the second worst state in the nation for pedestrian fatalities for 2014. With a total of 588 fatal pedestrian accidents, these deaths account for a whopping 23 percent of the total 2,494 traffic fatalities statewide.

The worst state overall, however, was New Mexico with much of that state’s ranking attributed to pedestrian alcohol consumption, in combination with poorly maintained sidewalks. On the opposite end of the spectrum was Minnesota, ranked safest in the nation, and similarly having the lowest reported rates of drunk driving deaths.

Dangerous Florida Counties

The Auto Insurance Center also ranked the 20 worst counties for pedestrian fatalities in its report. The most dangerous county was Los Angeles County, with 207 total fatalities. Miami-Dade County came in at number five, with 74 fatalities and Broward was number nine with 57.

Notably, special mention was made of the intersection Southwest 56th Street and Southwest 157th Avenue in Miami as one of the most dangerous intersections in the nation. That intersection alone had three fatal accidents in 2014.

Other Florida counties on the list included Pinellas County with 41 fatalities (ranked 15th) and Palm Beach County with 34 (19th).

Pedestrian Fatality Facts & Figures

Florida’s pedestrian fatalities were 30 percent female, 70 percent male, in line with many other states. The Auto Insurance Center explained this trend as it was likely because men are more likely than women to engage in risky behaviors and tend to drink more alcohol.

The average age of pedestrians involved in fatal accidents in Florida was 47.6, about a year older than the national average of 46.8.

Pedestrian Dangers

While walking can be a safe and healthy way to get from Point A to Point B, the fact remains that accidents often happen, especially in Florida. You can help avoid these accidents by taking more steps to keep yourself safe. Do not drink in excess and ensure that you are always aware of your surroundings.

If you or your loved one suffered severe or fatal injuries in a pedestrian accident, speak with a pedestrian accident attorney today for help filing an injury claim. Contact Montero Law Center at 954-767-6500 today.