Health First Trauma Surgeon Dr. Scott Zenoni Works to Prevent Injuries Among Drivers and Pedestrians

One Split Second Can Change a Life Behind the Wheel or on Foot

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA — As fall mornings begin to cool across Florida’s Space Coast, runners and cyclists take to the streets in greater numbers — but so do the risks.

Local trauma teams say there’s a clear connection between distracted driving and pedestrian injuries, especially as more people turn to outdoor activities like walking, jogging and biking.

Dr. Scott Zenoni, trauma surgeon and founder of the Be Seen, Be Safe program at Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center, says the dangers are very real — and very preventable.

“Distracted driving is dangerous,” Zenoni emphasized. “Motor vehicle crashes related to distracted driving can be reduced significantly if we make better choices — choosing not to text and drive, not to eat behind the wheel, or even avoid adjusting the radio while moving.

The picture in Brevard County tells a concerning story. In 2023, there were 14,806 total crashes, including 456 that caused serious injuries and 98 that resulted in fatalities.

The year also saw 2,062 crashes linked to distracted driving and 24 pedestrian deaths, according to the 2023 State of the System report and additional data by Space Coast Transportation Planning Organization.

In fact, the Palm Bay–Melbourne–Titusville metropolitan area ranked 11th on Smart Growth America’s list of the 20 most dangerous metro areas for pedestrians in the United States. This ranking highlights the ongoing risk for residents and visitors who walk, bike or run in the region.

At Holmes Regional Medical Center, trauma teams regularly treat injuries resulting from pedestrian and motor vehicle crashes.

The list of injuries is extensive and devastating: femur fractures, rib and sternum breaks, LeFort facial fractures (a serious type of facial injury that affects the middle part of the face — the area between the eyes and the upper jaw), pelvic fractures, internal organ damage like liver lacerations, and, in too many cases, death.

These aren’t just statistics. These are our neighbors, family members, and friends.

The Health First trauma team at Holmes Regional Medical Center isn’t just reacting to the injuries — they’re working hard to prevent them.

Through community outreach programs — including local running events — Health First is working to combat one of the biggest causes of crashes today: distracted driving.

Members of the trauma team attend these events to hand out free clip-on safety lights and talk to the community about the importance of staying visible and alert. These efforts are part of a larger mission to reduce preventable injuries involving pedestrians and vehicles.

“At Health First, we are committed to educating our community with outreach programs on the dangers of distracted driving,” said Zenoni.

That’s why the Be Seen, Be Safe program is gaining momentum across Brevard County.

At first glance, it’s a simple device — a small, clip-on LED light. But according to Jessica Henwood, Trauma Clinical Outreach Coordinator at Health First’s Holmes Regional Medical Center, it can be a lifesaver.

“By the end of 2025, we will have handed out roughly 6,000 clip-on safety lights to runners and walkers at dozens of events,” Henwood said. “These lights increase visibility and give drivers the extra seconds they need to slow down and avoid a tragedy.”

Combined with reflective clothing and safer pedestrian habits, the program encourages a culture of shared responsibility on the roads — one where both drivers and walkers stay alert.

Health First’s injury prevention team shares the following safety recommendations for outdoor exercise enthusiasts:

■ Wear a safety light when running, cycling, or walking, especially at dawn or dusk.
■ Choose bright, reflective clothing. Visibility is key.
■ Always use sidewalks when available. If there’s no sidewalk, walk facing traffic and stay as far from the roadway as possible.
■ Stay alert and look both ways before crossing streets or intersections — even in marked crosswalks.
■ Put the phone down. Just as distracted drivers are a danger, so are distracted pedestrians.

“Being out on the road, whether you’re in a car or on foot, is inherently risky,” Henwood said. “But we can lower that risk with small changes — by being present and prepared.”

Improving pedestrian safety also depends on awareness and responsible behavior from everyone on the road.

“When you get behind the wheel, you’re operating a two-ton machine. That demands your full attention,” Henwood stressed. “And when you’re outside exercising — walking, running, biking — you need to assume drivers may not see you.”

Florida’s climate, walkability, and scenic views make it an ideal place for outdoor activity. That’s why programs like Be Seen, Be Safe are about more than just prevention — they’re about preserving a way of life.

Henwood emphasized that running, biking, and walking are excellent ways to maintain both mental and physical health. The goal is for the community to enjoy these activities while staying safe.

As Brevard continues to grow and attract more residents and visitors, Health First’s trauma team is urging everyone — whether on foot or behind the wheel — to slow down, stay alert, and share the road.

Because a split-second decision can change a life — or save one.

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