Increased Pedestrian Deaths in South Carolina
Pedestrian accidents can occur any time of year, but decreased daylight hours and potentially hazardous road conditions of can make them more common during winter months. Pedestrians have little to protect themselves in collisions involving cars and other motor vehicles, and the personal injuries that result from these accidents can be severe and life threatening. A recent number of increased pedestrian deaths throughout South Carolina highlights the need for increased safety, particularly when walking at night or in high traffic situations.
South Carolina Pedestrian Fatalities
The latest statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration indicates that South Carolina has one of the highest pedestrian fatalities in the nation. At 102 recorded fatalities in 2015, we rank 13 out of 50 states. This number include areas with far larger populations, such as California, New York, and Florida. Pedestrian accidents are nearly twice as likely to occur at night than throughout the day, and early nightfall presents special hazards during the winter.
Recent news reports indicate that at least four pedestrian deaths have occurred in the state through the last weeks of December 2016. An NBC News 2 report states that a woman was struck and killed on James Island while crossing the northbound lanes of Maybank Highway to get to her parked vehicle. News reports indicate another woman was killed just days earlier when she was struck during an accident involving two vehicles on Ashley Phosphate Rd. And two additional, similar accidents involving pedestrians struck by cars occurred during the same week in Greenville.
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Pedestrian Safety Tips To Follow
When walking any time, pedestrians should always cross at designated intersections only and make sure drivers come to a complete stop before stepping in the road. During the winter months especially, it is important to take the following precautions:
- Wear light, bright colored clothing and use your cell phone camera or flashlight to increase visibility
- Look right, then left, then right again before crossing the road
- Never walk out from between two parked cars
- Use caution when crossing exits and entrances
- If you have been drinking, take a cab home or have a friend drive you, rather than walking
The S.C. Department of Motor Vehicles also warns drivers to do their part to avoid accidents with pedestrians by using increased caution at night or during adverse weather. Slow down in poor conditions and in areas with lots of people walking, such as near schools or town centers — and remember that pedestrians have the right of way at crosswalks or when crossing lights are flashing.
Get Help From a Personal Injury Attorney
If you or a loved one have been involved in a pedestrian accident, contact Anastopoulo Law Firm right away. Our experienced South Carolina personal injury attorneys understand
the serious and life threatening impacts these accidents can have. We can advise you on how to hold responsible drivers accountable for their actions so that you can get the compensation you deserve. We have offices in Charleston and throughout South Carolina. Call or contact our office online today for a free review of your case.
Call or text 803-222-2222 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
