Pedestrians are the most vulnerable travelers on the road. They’re at the mercy of drivers, motorcyclists and even bicyclists. Pedestrians are also dependent on the infrastructure of the area in which they live and work.
Some parts of South Carolina are safer than others for pedestrians. However, overall, our state had the unfortunate distinction of coming in fourth out of the ten states with the most pedestrian fatalities in an insurance study last year. Specifically, there were more than three fatalities for every 100,000 residents, with a total of 160 pedestrian fatalities in a year. That’s almost two-thirds higher than the national average.
Infrastructure failings and pedestrian safety
Researchers in part blamed the poor state of South Carolina roads. Particularly bad roads can even cause drivers to have to swerve to get around potholes, which can in some cases cause them to hit a pedestrian (or another vehicle).
Safety advocates in Charleston say that pedestrian crossings – even those with traffic lights – can contribute to the problem. They recommend, among other things, lights timed so that pedestrians have additional time to cross an intersection before drivers get a green light to proceed through it.
The head of a group called Charleston Moves notes what other safety experts around the country and at all levels of government say – that poor communities and communities of color suffer the most from aging and unkept infrastructure. He says that there’s a “disproportionate impact to black community members and senior community members, so we definitely have an epidemic on our hands.”
Who else is most at risk?
Seniors are often more likely to walk than younger adults because they no longer drive. Further, the fact that they’re often slower and/or rely on mobility aids can make them victims of impatient or angry drivers. Common pedestrian injuries, like fractures and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), can be more serious and more likely to be fatal to seniors.
Of course, pedestrian injuries to children are also more likely to be fatal because of their small stature. TBIs, spine dislocations, musculoskeletal injuries and chest and abdominal injuries are among the injuries most often seen in emergency rooms.
While better infrastructure, especially around intersections and crosswalks, can make a difference, drivers have a responsibility to exercise caution around pedestrians. That’s why if you or a loved one is injured or worse in a pedestrian crash, it’s crucial not to settle for less than the compensation you deserve. Seeking legal guidance can help to ensure a favorable outcome in such scenarios.