Pedestrian accident fatalities in South Carolina were the highest per capita of any state in the country last year, continuing a disturbing trend of record-high pedestrian deaths in the state. That's according to a recent study by the Governor's Highway Safety Administration (GHSA).
"Any time we have a high number of fatalities which unfortunately we have been dealing with that for a while now is a concern for us," State Trooper Nick Pye of the South Carolina Highway Patrol said in an interview with News 2 NBC. "Ultimately, our goal is Target Zero and one is too many."
South Carolina pedestrian accident statistics
U.S. pedestrian deaths increased by 17 percent during the first half of last year compared to the first half of 2020.
Those figures were dramatically worse in South Carolina. For example, during the same six-month period last year, 153 pedestrians were killed in accidents in South Carolina, a 100.6 percent increase or 79 more deaths compared to the same period in 2020. Worst of all, 2020 was already the deadliest year for pedestrians in South Carolina in more than a decade.
As a result of last year's significant increase in the number of pedestrian deaths in South Carolina, the state was "projected to have the highest rate of pedestrian deaths per resident population" at 2.95 pedestrian deaths per 100,000 residents, the GHSA reported.
Why pedestrian accidents happen
Several common causes continue to drive the steady increase in pedestrian accident injuries and fatalities nationwide. According to the GHSA and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
- Speeding drivers, in particular, played a significant role in last year's increase, resulting in 8.6 percent more pedestrian fatalities nationwide.
- Drivers under the influence of alcohol account for 46 percent of pedestrian accidents nationwide.
- SUVs, vans, and pickup trucks have been shown to cause more severe injuries or fatalities to pedestrians compared to the average passenger vehicle or sedan. These vehicles are more prevalent now than ever before.
A pedestrian's age matters as well. Nationwide, 20 percent of pedestrian fatalities involve adults over 65. According to the CDC, an additional 17 percent of pedestrian deaths involve children under 15.
Demand justice. Contact a pedestrian accident attorney today.
Pedestrian accident claims can quickly turn into complicated legal cases. That's because there's often a lot of money at stake, especially if you sustained a severe injury. In addition, the at-fault driver's insurance company will often do everything possible to reduce or deny your claim.
We understand the complexity and the seriousness of such legal cases. That's why we want to help. Our experienced South Carolina pedestrian accident attorneys can ensure your case gets handled the right way and produces the results you deserve. We understand how the legal system works. We know the law. Most importantly, we're prepared to do the work needed to do the job right.
Put your trust in a law firm that puts your needs first. Contact us and schedule a free case evaluation with an experienced Lexington pedestrian accident lawyer.
