Bicycle and pedestrian safety is a problem in South Carolina.
Pedestrian fatality statistics in SC
In 2020, South Carolina was second in the nation for walking fatalities per 100,000 population. According to the South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT), there were 187 pedestrian deaths that year. These pedestrian fatalities comprised 18% of the total traffic fatalities statewide. The pedestrian fatality rate in South Carolina is 3.58. That’s slightly better than New Mexico’s worst rate of 3.75. But the national average is only 1.98.
As the 23rd most populated state in the United States, people are beginning to look critically at why our rate of pedestrian deaths is so high compared to other states (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). There are concerns that the ever-growing number of pedestrian deaths in the state is due to the booming population. That fact, along with the millions of tourists who visit every year, could be the root of the problems.
Cyclist fatality statistics in SC
In 2020 alone, there were 14 reported bicyclist fatalities caused by motor vehicle traffic collisions.
Because SC has fairly nice weather all year long, cycling is a popular hobby among our residents and visitors. However, South Carolina is one of the worst rated states when it comes to cyclist and driver relationships. Rated at 5.1/10, the Palmetto state is the third worst state in the country for driver-cyclist relationships according to a survey taken by 3,000 cyclists. In fact, South Carolina scored better than only New Hampshire and Kansas (The State).
Roads with no bike lanes or shoulders for cyclists to ride are common. And with more drivers on the road from all over the state, accidents are all too common. In addition, people usually drive faster on South Carolina’s rural roads which tend to be narrower than urban streets, have blind corners and hills, and plenty of other obstacles that might prevent a driver from seeing a cyclist in time.
Laws Regarding Bicycles
As it stands now, the laws regarding driver conduct towards cyclists are very vague. There is no set distance that a car must keep between it and a cyclist. But drivers are instructed to exercise due care when it comes to interacting with cyclists on the road. However, what that means is not laid out, as well as how harassment against cyclists is defined (SC Code of Laws). This might be why it’s so easy for conflicts to come up between cyclists and drivers.
SC Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plan
As public outcry for better accommodations for cyclists continues, the SCDOT has at least released a new plan to combat the number of pedestrian fatalities in the state. There are several steps that the department wants to put in place. First, adding to existing roads to make them accessible to all modes of transportation. They have also acknowledged that many accidents are caused by an ignorance of existing road laws. So they plan to educate drivers and pedestrians more fully on how to remain safe on the road. Finally, they hope to increase access to public transportation, especially in rural areas (SC Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety Action Plan).
Hopefully, these changes can be implemented quickly, as the population and tourism grows. As accidents between cyclists and drivers, and walkers and drivers become a more discussed topic, there is hope that everyone will be more aware of their surroundings on the road. Be safe out there!
Personal Injury Attorney David L. Hood: Here to Fight for Injury Victims in Georgetown and Horry Counties and Throughout South Carolina
Here at the The Law Offices of David L. Hood, we have years of experience representing injured victims in South Carolina, and we offer a free initial consultation so we can listen to your story and provide candid advice about what your legal options are. If you choose to hire us, we also work on a contingent fee basis, which means you don’t pay fees or expenses unless we achieve a settlement or win your case in court.
If you or a loved one has recently been injured through no fault of your own, contact The Law Offices of David L. Hood at (843) 491-6025 or fill out our online contact form and we’ll get in touch to schedule your free consultation. We know accidents can turn a person’s life upside-down, but we’re here to support you and guide you at every step in your journey toward justice and healing.
