Florida launches statewide awareness campaign to highlight National Pedestrian Safety Month and promote safer roads for all

Tallahassee, Florida – October in Florida is not just about cooler weather and falling leaves — it’s also about saving lives on the road. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), together with the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP), is joining forces with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to recognize National Pedestrian Safety Month. The month-long initiative underscores a simple but powerful message: Safety Starts With You.

Throughout October, the campaign seeks to remind both drivers and pedestrians that everyone shares responsibility for keeping Florida’s streets and sidewalks safe. With more people walking for exercise, commuting, or leisure, pedestrian safety remains a critical concern across the state. According to crash data, pedestrians continue to experience the highest fatality rate among all roadway users in Florida. Interactions between motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians occur daily — at intersections, crosswalks, and parking lots — where a moment of distraction can lead to tragedy.

The state’s transportation and safety agencies are emphasizing that the problem is not one-sided. Faults in pedestrian-related crashes are divided almost evenly between drivers and pedestrians, revealing the need for mutual accountability. Whether on foot or behind the wheel, every Floridian plays a role in preventing accidents.

“Pedestrian safety is a public safety priority, and this campaign reflects our commitment to reducing fatalities through awareness, education, and enforcement,” said Executive Director Dave Kerner. “It’s critical that drivers remain attentive to pedestrians, and that pedestrians take proactive steps to follow proper crossing protocols and ensure they’re visible to motorists. Safety Starts With You, and together, we can prevent tragedies and protect lives.”

A Call for Caution on Florida’s Roads

Florida’s roadways, from busy city intersections to quiet residential streets, can be unpredictable. Troopers across the state have seen firsthand how quickly a simple walk can turn fatal when either party lets their guard down.

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“Our troopers see firsthand the devastating impact of pedestrian involved crashes,” said Colonel Gary Howze. “We’re urging drivers to stay alert, slow down in pedestrian zones, and always yield the right of way. Lives depend on it and every decision behind the wheel matters.”

In 2024, Florida law enforcement and safety partners recorded thousands of pedestrian crashes, many of which could have been prevented with basic caution. Officials point out that distracted driving and inattentive walking remain leading contributors to pedestrian fatalities. Texting, wearing earbuds, or glancing at a phone while crossing the street can be just as dangerous as speeding or running a red light.

“Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility, and we urge all Floridians to always remain alert when walking or driving,” said Florida Department of Transportation Secretary Jared W. Perdue, P.E. “Alongside our partners, we’re continuing to implement pedestrian safety projects and educate motorists and pedestrians on making safe decisions when traveling throughout the state.”

Building Safer Habits for Pedestrians

As part of National Pedestrian Safety Month, FLHSMV is reminding residents to adopt simple, effective habits when walking near traffic. Officials urge pedestrians to walk on sidewalks whenever possible. If no sidewalk exists, it’s safest to walk facing oncoming traffic and stay as far from vehicles as possible.

Distraction is another critical danger. Pedestrians are encouraged to keep their heads up, avoid using phones or headphones while crossing, and stay alert to their surroundings. When crossing streets, it’s always safest to do so at designated crosswalks or intersections where drivers expect to see foot traffic.

Safety officials also advise making eye contact with drivers before crossing in front of a vehicle. This simple step helps ensure visibility — especially in areas with poor lighting. Pedestrians should also wear bright or reflective clothing at night and use a flashlight when possible to improve visibility.

“Never assume a driver sees you,” the campaign warns. “Make eye contact and wait for a clear gap in traffic before crossing. Even when you have the right of way, it’s important to remain alert and prepared for the unexpected.”

Reminders for Drivers: Every Street Is a Crosswalk

Motorists, too, are receiving strong reminders from law enforcement and traffic agencies. Florida law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians crossing legally at intersections and marked crosswalks. The rule applies equally to motorists and bicyclists. Violating it can lead to a fine of at least $164 and three points on a driver’s license — not to mention the risk of causing serious injury or death.

Officials emphasize that every corner of an intersection counts as a crosswalk, even if it isn’t painted with white stripes. The only exception is when a local or state government has officially closed a crossing and posted signage. Drivers must also remember that pedestrians can appear at any moment, whether they’re walking to school, crossing a parking lot, or stepping out from behind a parked car.

To reduce risk, FLHSMV recommends several important steps for motorists:

• Always look out for pedestrians, especially in neighborhoods, school zones, and parking lots.
• Slow down and be prepared to stop when approaching a crosswalk.
• Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk, as there may be pedestrians you cannot see.
• Follow the speed limit and reduce speed in poor weather or low-light conditions.
• Be extra careful when backing up, since pedestrians — especially children — can move into your path unexpectedly.

Florida’s safety campaign also reminds drivers that patience saves lives. Yielding a few seconds for a pedestrian to cross is far better than risking a life-changing tragedy.

A Shared Vision for Safer Streets

The state’s ongoing efforts are about more than citations or slogans — they’re part of a coordinated movement to reshape public awareness. Local law enforcement, traffic engineers, and community organizations continue to collaborate on education programs, safety audits, and infrastructure improvements. These range from adding new crosswalks and pedestrian signals to redesigning intersections where collisions frequently occur.

National Pedestrian Safety Month is an opportunity to reinforce these lessons at every level — from state agencies to everyday citizens. Florida’s initiative is part of a broader national effort led by the NHTSA to curb rising pedestrian fatalities across the United States.

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Every trip, whether by car or on foot, requires attention and care. A single lapse in judgment — a moment of distraction or impatience — can lead to irreversible consequences. As FLHSMV’s campaign emphasizes, safety truly begins with individual responsibility.

By embracing that mindset, Florida hopes to reduce preventable crashes, protect vulnerable road users, and create a transportation environment where pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists coexist safely.

In the words of Executive Director Dave Kerner, “Safety Starts With You.”