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The U.S. Department of Transportation figures for 2011, the most recent available, show that 14% of all traffic-related deaths in 2011 (32,367) were pedestrian deaths.  In 2010 Florida ranked number 2, following only California, in the number of pedestrian traffic deaths.

After decades of decline, the Wall Street Journal reported July 30, 2013, that nationwide, pedestrian-vehicle fatalities have been going up in recent years giving rise to an increased sense of urgency by urban planners and transportation experts to make America safer for pedestrians.

But transportation and urban planning may not be enough to curb vehicle/pedestrian deaths. Many pedestrian deaths happen when pedestrians walk in front of moving vehicles.  Even in areas where crosswalks are clearly marked, there are still accidents.  Many of these accidents occur because of "distracted" walking. We live in a multi-tasking society where communication is available 24/7.  Cell phones, iPods etc. are always in use, even when we should be paying attention.  We are always "plugged in".

In addition, pedestrians should become more visible by wearing bright reflective clothing.  There have been cases where drivers have not seen pedestrians until after collisions.

36% of pedestrians killed in traffic accidents have been drunk.  Drinking and walking do not mix.  Drinking may cause pedestrians to take unnecessary risks and feel they safe in the road when they are not.

Pedestrians should always use crosswalks and sidewalks, were available. If sidewalks are not available, pedestrians should walk on the side of the road facing on-coming traffic.

"Taking initial precautions, as those above, may prevent pedestrians from being injured or killed in southwest Florida," says Pedestrian Accident Attorney, Randall Spivey of Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A.

Randall L. Spivey is a Board Certified Civil Trial Attorney – the highest recognition for competence bestowed by the Florida Bar and a distinction earned by less than 2 percent of Florida attorneys. He has handled over 2,000 personal injury and wrongful death cases throughout Florida. For a free and confidential consultation to discuss your legal rights, contact the Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A., in Lee County at  239. 337.7483 or toll free at 1.888.477.4839, or by email to Randall@SpiveyLaw.com.  Visit SpiveyLaw.com  for more information. You can contact Spivey Law Firm, Personal Injury Attorneys, P.A. in Charlotte County at 941.764.7748 and in Collier County at 239.793.7748.