Whether you are planning an unforgettable resort vacation in Orlando or you are lucky enough to live here all year, pedestrian safety should be a primary concern for residents and tourists alike. According to the 2019 Dangerous by Design report from Smart Growth America, more pedestrian traffic deaths occur in Orlando than any other United States city.
Review the data about pedestrian accidents to stay safe when traveling by foot.
Looking at the numbers
From 2008 to 2017, the rate of pedestrian fatalities in Orlando increased more than the rate in all but two U.S. cities. Some of the most dangerous metro area locations for walkers include:
- State Road 46 in Sanford
- State Road 50 in Bithlo
- Highway 441 in Kissimmee
- Highway 192 in Kissimmee
- Pine Hills Road in Pine Hills
- Hiawassee Road in Pine Hills
- Colonial Drive in Pine Hills
- Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando
- State Road 436 in east Orlando
Understanding the risks
Because Orlando’s highway system caters to cars, many roads present significant hazards for pedestrians. Data from Smart Growth American indicates that these dangers disproportionately affect individuals in low-income households, people of color and senior citizens. Many of these individuals live in suburbs with arterial roads designed for motorists, not pedestrians, with limited crosswalks and sidewalks. Black Orlando residents had a 72% higher risk of pedestrian fatality over the study period than individuals of other races; the risk was 66% higher for American Indian residents.
Pedestrians can alter their routes to avoid some of the most dangerous areas. These include sidewalks with several driveways and vehicle crossings, sidewalks that abut high-speed roads and highways that have dirt trails instead of sidewalks for pedestrians. Drivers should also be aware of walkers in these inhospitable paths.
If you have to walk on a dangerous route, avoid serious injury by remaining visible to drivers at all times. Walk facing traffic and wear lights or reflective clothing at night.
