When it comes to the number of pedestrian fatalities in 2016, Miami-Dade and Broward County were among the 10 most dangerous counties in the United States. That is according to a data report from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA). According to the GHSA, the 10 most hazardous counties for pedestrians in 2016 were:

  1. Los Angeles County, California, which had265 pedestrian traffic fatalities;
  2. Maricopa County, Arizona, with 133 deaths;
  3. Harris County, Texas, which had 128 pedestrian fatalities;
  4. Dallas County, Texas, with 84 fatalities;
  5. Miami-Dade County, Florida, which had 83 pedestrian deaths;
  6. Cook County, Illinois, in which74 pedestrians died;
  7. San Diego County, California, where71 deaths occurred;
  8. Bexar County, Texas, with68 deaths;
  9. Broward County, Florida, which had 67 fatalities; and
  10. Orange County, California, with63

How Does Florida Compare to Other States?

Researchers factored in the population of each state so the largest states would not automatically have the worst results. They calculated the pedestrian fatality rate per 100,000 people rather than only considering the total number of deaths. Unfortunately, Florida still ranked high as a dangerous place for pedestrians.

At 3.22, Florida had the second-highest pedestrian fatality rate in the United States. This was second only to New Mexico, which had a fatality rate of 3.45. The third, fourth, and fifth states were:

  • South Carolina, with a fatality rate of 96;
  • Arizona, which had a rate of 85;and
  • Delaware,with a rate of 83 deaths per 100,000.

All of these states exceeded the national average of 1.92. Nebraska had the lowest pedestrian fatality rate at 0.68.

How Many Pedestrian Traffic Fatalities Were There in America in 2016?

Out of the 37,461 total traffic fatalities in the U.S. in 2016, 5,987 were people on foot. This number represents 16 percent of all traffic-related deaths. Just 10 years ago, pedestrian deaths represented only 11 percent of all road fatalities.

Researchers found 43 percent of all pedestrian fatalities occur in Florida, California, Texas, New York, and Arizona. This is in spite of the fact that only 30 percent of the U.S. population lives in these five locations.

One explanation for the higher numbers could be the amount of tourism those states enjoy. Popular tourist destinations frequently have large populations of people visiting who are not familiar with the area. This means the total number of people present could be higher than the number of permanent residents would indicate. It also means that in busy seasons, these states have a group of people present who are at higher risk for a pedestrian accident.

What Is Florida Doing to Protect Pedestrians?

Some of the protective measures Florida uses include:

  • Tailoring safety education materials to fit the community, including those who speak more than one language;
  • Having law enforcement focus first on educating rather than giving tickets; and
  • Fixing areas that are dangerous for pedestrians by adding things like intersection signals and adequate lighting.

What Should I Do If I Was in a Pedestrian Accident?

If you suffered injuries in a pedestrian accident, you might qualify for economic and noneconomic damages. The Montero Law Center helps pedestrians and vehicle occupants who sustain injuries in crashes. Call 954-767-6500 today to get your free, no-obligation consultation.