Pedestrian accidents are a serious concern in South Carolina, where thousands of individuals are injured or killed every year while walking on or near roadways. As a pedestrian, you have the right to safety, but when drivers fail to exercise caution, the consequences can be catastrophic. Understanding the statistics surrounding pedestrian accidents in South Carolina can help raise awareness and provide insight into the risks and preventative measures.

In this blog post, we will explore the latest pedestrian accident statistics in South Carolina, the factors contributing to these incidents, and how an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer can help if you've been involved in such an accident.

South Carolina Pedestrian Accident Statistics: Key Facts

Pedestrian accidents are a growing concern in South Carolina. The state's traffic safety records show that, unfortunately, South Carolina consistently ranks among the highest in the nation for pedestrian fatalities. According to recent reports and data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), pedestrian accidents are on the rise, with alarming trends seen in both urban and rural areas.

Here are some key South Carolina pedestrian accident statistics:

1. High Pedestrian Fatalities in South Carolina

   • South Carolina regularly ranks in the top 10 states for pedestrian fatalities. In 2022, 173 pedestrian deaths were reported in the state, marking a concerning increase in fatalities over the previous years. This figure accounts for approximately 15% of all traffic-related deaths in South Carolina.

2. Rising Pedestrian Injury Rates

   • Along with the increase in fatalities, the number of pedestrian injuries in South Carolina has also been rising. In 2022, over 1,100 pedestrians were injured in traffic accidents statewide. Injuries can range from minor bruises and scrapes to severe, life-altering conditions such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and fractures.

3. High Risk for Pedestrians in Urban Areas

   • Urban areas, particularly Charleston, Columbia, and Greenville, have the highest rates of pedestrian accidents. These cities are densely populated, with a lot of foot traffic, making pedestrians more vulnerable to collisions. Drivers in busy urban environments may not always pay enough attention to pedestrians, especially at night or in poorly lit areas.

4. Time of Day and Pedestrian Accidents

   • Nighttime is particularly dangerous for pedestrians in South Carolina. Nearly half of all pedestrian fatalities occur after dark, largely due to reduced visibility and impaired driving. Poor lighting, especially on rural roads or in parking lots, makes it difficult for drivers to spot pedestrians in time to avoid a collision.

5. Alcohol Impairment and Pedestrian Accidents

   • Alcohol impairment is a significant factor in both pedestrian and driver behavior. In 2022, alcohol-related crashes involving pedestrians accounted for approximately 43% of all pedestrian deaths in South Carolina. Many pedestrian accidents occur when pedestrians are intoxicated or when drivers are driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

6. Pedestrian Accidents and Distracted Driving

   • Distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of all types of accidents, including those involving pedestrians. With the rise of smartphones and other in-car distractions, drivers may not always be paying full attention to their surroundings. This contributes to an increased risk of pedestrian accidents, especially in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.

Factors Contributing to Pedestrian Accidents in South Carolina

While pedestrian accidents are often caused by drivers' negligence, there are multiple factors that contribute to these incidents. Below are some of the most common causes:

1. Driver Negligence

• Failure to Yield: Drivers often fail to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks, especially at uncontrolled intersections or busy roadways. In South Carolina, drivers are legally required to yield to pedestrians crossing at crosswalks, but this law is frequently ignored.
• Speeding: Excessive speed makes it harder for drivers to react quickly if a pedestrian is crossing the road unexpectedly. Speeding in areas with high pedestrian traffic increases the likelihood of accidents and fatalities.

2. Poor Road Conditions

• Pedestrian accidents can also be caused by poorly maintained roadways, lack of sidewalks, inadequate crosswalk markings, or insufficient lighting. In many areas of South Carolina, especially in rural regions, infrastructure issues create hazardous conditions for pedestrians.

3. Pedestrian Behavior

• While the majority of pedestrian accidents are caused by driver error, pedestrians also contribute to accidents by failing to follow basic safety guidelines. Pedestrians who jaywalk, cross the street without looking both ways, or walk in areas without sidewalks are at a higher risk of being involved in an accident.

4. Impaired Driving

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs remains one of the most significant factors in pedestrian accidents. In South Carolina, alcohol is involved in a large portion of pedestrian fatalities. Impaired drivers have slower reaction times and poor judgment, making it much more difficult for them to avoid pedestrians in time.

5. Distractions

• Both drivers and pedestrians can be distracted while on the road. Drivers texting, talking on the phone, or engaging with in-car technology are more likely to overlook pedestrians. Similarly, pedestrians who are distracted by their phones or listening to music may fail to notice oncoming traffic.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Pedestrian Accidents?

Given the alarming statistics surrounding pedestrian accidents in South Carolina, it's crucial to take proactive steps to reduce risks. Here are some strategies that can help:

1. Better Infrastructure: South Carolina municipalities should continue to invest in pedestrian-friendly infrastructure, such as well-lit crosswalks, pedestrian bridges, and safer intersections. Improved infrastructure can make it easier and safer for pedestrians to navigate busy roads.

2. Stricter Law Enforcement: Law enforcement agencies must actively enforce traffic laws related to pedestrian safety, including cracking down on drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians and those driving under the influence.

3. Public Education: Raising awareness about pedestrian safety can help reduce accidents. Drivers should be educated about the importance of yielding to pedestrians and reducing speeds in high-traffic areas. Pedestrians should be encouraged to use crosswalks, look both ways before crossing, and avoid distractions when walking.

4. Personal Responsibility: Both drivers and pedestrians have a responsibility to remain alert and practice caution on the road. Pedestrians should always cross at designated crosswalks, wear visible clothing at night, and avoid walking under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

What to Do If You're Involved in a Pedestrian Accident

If you or a loved one is involved in a pedestrian accident in South Carolina, it's important to take immediate action to protect your rights:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine initially, some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Always seek medical attention after an accident.

2. Document the Scene: If you are able, take photos of the accident scene, any visible injuries, and damage to vehicles involved. Collect contact information from witnesses.

3. Contact a Pedestrian Accident Lawyer: A skilled South Carolina pedestrian accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, determine liability, and fight for the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

Contact a South Carolina Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Pedestrian accidents can lead to serious injuries and significant financial hardship. If you've been injured as a pedestrian in South Carolina, it's important to consult with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer who can help you understand your legal options and secure fair compensation for your losses.

Contact us today at (843) 314-4202 or through our online form for a free consultation. Our team is here to fight for your rights and help you get the justice and compensation you deserve.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, please consult with a licensed South Carolina personal injury attorney to discuss your specific case.