Hillsborough County, FL — Officials Seek Solutions During Safe Streets Week

Hillsborough County, FL (February 12th, 2025) – During this year’s Florida Safe Streets Week, state and local officials are looking for answers to Florida’s ongoing pedestrian accident problem.   

Florida has long struggled with pedestrian safety, but in recent years, the situation has become even more alarming. With an 80% increase in pedestrian deaths over the past 15 years, Florida is now considered one of the most dangerous states for pedestrians. 

Understanding the legal aspects of pedestrian accidents, including liability and how to recover compensation, is crucial for victims and their families. If you were hit by a car and suffered injuries as a result, our attorneys at Magazine & Light Law Group will advise you of your options and help determine the best course of action to recover the maximum compensation for your injuries. Contact us today at 727-499-9900. We offer FREE initial consultations.

The Rising Trend of Pedestrian Accidents in Florida

Florida has experienced a shocking rise in pedestrian accidents. In 2023 alone, the state recorded 10,290 pedestrian-related crashes, resulting in 778 deaths. These numbers highlight the urgent need for improved pedestrian infrastructure and stricter traffic regulations to protect those on foot.

Pedestrian deaths are not just a local issues, but a nationwide concern. However, Florida consistently ranks among the most hazardous states for pedestrians due to is urban sprawl, high-speed roads, and lack of pedestrian-friendly infrastructure. Areas like Hillsborough and Miami-Dade counties have reported some of the highest pedestrian fatality rates in the country.

Contributing Factors to the Increase

Several factors have contributed to the rise in pedestrian accidents in Florida. Some of the most common causes of Florida pedestrian accidents include:

• Distracted driving and walking: The widespread use of smartphones has led to more drivers and pedestrians failing to pay attention to their surroundings. 
• High-speed limits: Many roads in Florida are designed for speed rather than safety, increasing the risk of fatal pedestrian accidents.
• Poor pedestrian infrastructure: Many areas lack crosswalks, sidewalks and proper lighting, making it more dangerous for pedestrians to navigate the streets.
• Population growth and tourism: Florida’s booming population and high tourist activity mean more people on the roads, increasing the likelihood of pedestrian-related accidents.

Florida’s Safe Streets Week: Initiatives to Curb Accidents

In response to the rising pedestrian fatalities, Florida has launched Safe Streets Week, an initiative aimed at making roads safer for everyone. Safe Streets Week brings together local leaders, law enforcement, transportation officials, and community members to identify and implement strategies for reducing pedestrian deaths.

One of the key events to be held this week is the Gulf Coast Safe Streets Summit. At this event, transportation and safety experts will discuss best practices and innovative solutions for pedestrian safety. The summit emphasizes the importance of collaboration between state and local governments in addressing pedestrian fatalities.

Proposed Safety Measures

To help create safer environments for pedestrians, officials have proposed several key safety measures, including:

Lowering Speed Limits

Reducing speed limits in high-risk areas, particularly residential neighborhoods and school zones, can help prevent fatal pedestrian accidents. Many communities are advocating for a default speed limit of 20 mph in these areas.

Enhancing Pedestrian Infrastructure

Adding more sidewalks, protected crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and well-lit walking paths can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Implementing Traffic Calming Measures

Speed bumps, raised crosswalks, and curb extensions can help slow down vehicles. Safety measures such as these may help make the roads safer for pedestrians, and all who use them.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Educating both drivers and pedestrians on road safety can help reduce accidents caused by negligence or distraction.

Despite these efforts, pedestrian safety remains a pressing issue. As such, efforts such as continued investment in infrastructure and law enforcement will be necessary to make lasting improvements.

Understanding Liability in Pedestrian Injury Cases

Liability in pedestrian accidents is a complex issue, as multiple parties may be responsible for an incident. Determining fault requires a thorough examination of the circumstances, including driver behavior, pedestrian actions, and road conditions. An experienced Clearwater personal injury lawyer may help victims and their families determine who can be held responsible. 

Determining Fault

Determining fault in a pedestrian accident is a crucial step in seeking compensation for injuries. Key factors in determining fault include:

Driver Negligence

Drivers owe those with whom they share the roads a duty of care. If a driver was distracted, speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to yield at a crosswalk, then, it may be a breach of this duty. As such, they may be liable for the pedestrian’s injuries.

Pedestrian Negligence

Pedestrians also have a responsibility toward others on the road. Therefore, if a pedestrian was jaywalking crossing against a traffic signal, or walking in a prohibited area, they may share some responsibility for the accident.

Road Conditions and Visibility

Poor lighting, obstructed crosswalks, and other environmental factors can also contribute to liability determinations. 

Responsibility may fall to one party, or be shared by multiple. Florida follows a comparative negligence system, allowing both drivers and pedestrians to be found partially responsible for an accident. 

Legal Recourse for Injured Pedestrians in Florida

Pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to compensation for their injuries. A pedestrian accident attorney can help victims navigate the legal system and determine the best course of action for their case. 

Compensation in a pedestrian accident claim may cover medical expenses, including hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical treatments. Victims may also seek to recover for lost wages resulting from time missed at work due to their injuries, as well as for pain and suffering.

Pedestrian accident victims should seek legal assistance as soon as possible to ensure they file within Florida’s statute of limitations, which is typically four years for personal injury claims. 

If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, my firm is here to help. With more than 30 years of experience handling personal injury claims, our attorney, Jim Magazine, understands the unique challenges pedestrians injured in Clearwater, Florida, face. We are committed to securing the maximum compensation for your associated losses. Contact us today at Magazine & Light Law Group for a FREE initial consultation to discuss your options, 727-499-9900.

Jim Magazine

James (Jim) Magazine is a Florida Board Certified Civil Trial lawyer who has spent his career helping injured victims. Jim is licensed to practice law in the State of Florida since 1990 and is also admitted to practice at the Appellate level and admitted to the United States Supreme Court.

Years of Experience: More than 30 years
Florida Registration Status: Active
Bar Admissions:
Clearwater Bar Association
West Pasco Bar Association