Recent findings from Smart Growth America have placed South Carolina among the most hazardous states in the nation for pedestrians. According to the second installment of their “Dangerous by Design 2024” report, the Palmetto State ranked third in the nation for pedestrian fatalities between 2018 and 2022—surpassed only by New Mexico and Florida. As attorneys who have long served the Grand Strand and beyond, we at The Floyd Law Firm, PC are deeply concerned by these findings. Our communities should be places where people feel safe walking to school, work, or along the beach—but the data suggests far too many lives are being lost on our roadways.
The report highlights an important fact: While only 20% of the nation’s roads are state-owned, they account for 54% of all pedestrian deaths. These roads often feature multiple lanes, higher speed limits, and limited pedestrian infrastructure, making them especially dangerous for those on foot.
Heidi Simon, Director of Thriving Communities at Smart Growth America, noted that many southeastern cities—including those in South Carolina—were developed during and after the rise of car-centric planning, resulting in streets designed more for vehicle speed than pedestrian safety.
Locally, the Charleston-North Charleston metro area was ranked ninth most dangerous in the nation for pedestrians. Officials from the City of Charleston report that they are working alongside SCDOT on infrastructure improvements and long-term plans to build safer, more walkable communities.
The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) has stated that it prioritizes pedestrian safety in its planning and currently invests $135 million annually in road safety—$10 million of which is specifically dedicated to vulnerable road users, including pedestrians and bicyclists. Despite these efforts, from 2018 to 2022, 878 pedestrians lost their lives on South Carolina roads.
While planning and infrastructure improvements are essential, safety begins with both drivers and pedestrians.
Pedestrians are urged to:
- Use sidewalks whenever available.
- Walk along the shoulder or far left side of the road when sidewalks are not present.
- Utilize crosswalks and obey traffic signals.
- Stay alert and avoid distractions.
Drivers must:
- Exercise caution in congested or residential areas.
- Be extra vigilant at crosswalks and intersections.
- Drive at appropriate speeds, especially in poor weather or low-light conditions.
- Avoid distractions and remain sober behind the wheel.
- Yield to pedestrians and use turn signals when making turns or lane changes.
- Both drivers and pedestrians have a shared duty to help prevent avoidable tragedies on our roads.
Know Your Rights After a Pedestrian Accident
When accidents do occur, victims and their families often face overwhelming physical, emotional, and financial burdens. In South Carolina, victims have up to three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Potential compensation may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income and future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Attorney fees and other related costs
At The Floyd Law Firm, PC, we understand the lasting impact that pedestrian accidents can have. For over 50 years, our team has provided strong, compassionate legal representation to injured clients in Surfside Beach, Myrtle Beach, and throughout South Carolina. With over 100 years of combined experience, our attorneys are here to guide you every step of the way.
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a pedestrian accident, it’s important to act quickly and know your legal options. Let our experienced team fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Learn More:
Pedestrian Safety in SC: Understanding the Rising Trends and Taking Action
