Multiple studies over the last several years have shown Florida to be among the most dangerous states in the nations for pedestrians, with elevated levels of pedestrian accidents resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
But what exactly is it about Florida that makes it so dangerous for pedestrians? Here are a few of the factors that lead to the greater incidence of pedestrian accidents in the state.
- Wider roads: Florida tends to have wider roads in its cities, largely due to the way their neighborhoods were designed. The lack of strong connectivity between neighborhoods and commercial areas results in increased congestion, the response to which was to widen roadways. However, wider roadways increase the likelihood of pedestrian accidents.
- Divided highways: There are a lot of divided highways (going along with wider roads) in areas where there is pedestrian activity. Divided highways generally have higher speed limits, which can make it harder to stop for pedestrians.
- Lots of pedestrians: Florida sees nice weather year-round and is an attractive destination for tourists, both of which can result in much larger-than-average pedestrian counts in some parts of the state, especially when compared to other states and regions across the country.
- Elderly drivers: It is worth noting that Florida has one of the highest average age populations in the nation due to its large number of retirees who flock to the state in their senior years. Elderly drivers see a higher rate of accidents, including pedestrian accidents, which can contribute to the state’s higher number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities.
These are just a few examples of some of the factors that are most likely to influence the numbers of pedestrian injuries and deaths in Florida. To learn more about your legal options if you’ve suffered an injury as a pedestrian due to the negligence of a driver, contact an experienced Manatee County auto accident attorney at Goldman, Babboni, Fernandez & Walsh.