ORLANDO, Fla. — New data shows just how dangerous Central Florida roads can be for pedestrians.
The Florida Highway Patrol said pedestrian-involved crashes are preventable. Troopers are looking at driver behavior and pedestrian safety.
People walking along Central Florida roads are facing a deadly threat. FHP said both drivers and pedestrians have a role in preventing the next crash.
“Make drivers aware of pedestrians as well as making pedestrians aware of drivers,” Trooper Migdalisis Garcia with the Florida Highway Patrol said.
The most recent data shows that in our seven major viewing counties, there have been nearly 1,900 pedestrian crashes this year. 86 people have died.
More than 1,000 bike crashes have been reported, with 28 deaths.
FHP said visibility can make all the difference, especially as we head toward shorter days during October, November, and December.
“It is darker during that time,” Trooper Garcia said. “We do have the time change coming up.”
Trooper Garcia said Friday evenings after 6 p.m. are another danger zone.
“Unfortunately, we do tend to see where people are more impatient, getting home from work, traveling at a higher rate of speed,” she said.
FHP said pedestrians should use crosswalks whenever possible and make themselves visible. Drivers, don’t assume a pedestrian sees you.
With dozens of lives lost this year, FHP had just one warning.
“Just focus on the road,” Trooper Garcia said.
Troopers said to slow down, don’t drive distracted, and make sure you can see and be seen when on the roads.
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