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Leon County Faces Surge in Pedestrian Fatalities

Increased pedestrian fatalities in Leon County raise concerns

News Summary

Leon County is witnessing a troubling rise in pedestrian fatalities, with a reported 12 deaths in 2023 and 2024, representing a 42% increase since 2018. This alarming trend contrasts with a national decline in pedestrian deaths. Recent tragedies, including the death of a 14-year-old boy, underscore the urgent need for enhanced roadway safety measures. The Capital Regional Transportation Agency is advocating for infrastructure upgrades and safety studies to protect vulnerable road users as the community grapples with these concerning statistics.

Leon County Faces Surge in Pedestrian Fatalities

In a concerning turn of events, Leon County has seen a significant spike in pedestrian fatalities, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. The latest figures shared by the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV) Crash Dashboard present a troubling picture for our community.

Rising Numbers

As of 2023 and 2024, there have been 12 pedestrian fatalities recorded. This marks a staggering 42% increase compared to the 8 fatalities reported in 2018 and the 9 fatalities noted in 2019. It’s worth mentioning that while many areas in the nation have seen a decline in pedestrian deaths, Leon County’s numbers are alarmingly on the rise.

Data also reveals that the number of pedestrian-involved crashes surged 16%, jumping from 380 in 2018 and 2019 to 440 in 2023 and 2024. This increase leaves many residents concerned about the safety of walking in their neighborhoods.

A National Perspective

5.4% drop in pedestrian deaths during 2023 compared to the previous year, despite being 14.1% higher than 2019 figures. The contrast highlights how local issues can differ significantly from national trends, spotlighting the pressing need for improved safety measures in our area.

Recent Tragedies

November 17th, 2023, a tragic incident occurred at the intersection of Capital Circle Southeast and Apalachee Parkway. A heartbreaking situation unfolded when a 14-year-old boy was struck by a vehicle while trying to cross the road. As the driver swerved to avoid him, the young boy later succumbed to his injuries, reminding us of the vulnerability pedestrians face on busy streets.

In total, 10 pedestrian fatalities have been logged this year alone, as confirmed by Leon County Commissioner Brian Welch, a statistic that weighs heavily on families and friends in our community.

Taking Action

enhanced roadway safety. Proposed initiatives include infrastructure upgrades and safety studies along key thoroughfares. W. Tennessee Street and N. Monroe Street in downtown Tallahassee. Community efforts are ramping up as local authorities recognize the urgency of tightening road safety to protect pedestrians and cyclists alike.

Concerns Remain

55 reported bicycle crashes and 164 pedestrian crashes documented this year, the latest FHSMV data underscores ongoing concerns about road safety in Leon County. An alarming portion of fatalities involves vulnerable road users, including cyclists and pedestrians, highlighting a pressing need for more substantial safety measures. Leon County grapples with these rising statistics, community members are encouraged to remain vigilant while walking and biking and to advocate for proactive steps towards improving infrastructure and safety. By working together, we can hope to turn around these unsettling trends and make our streets safer for everyone.