S.C. Highway Patrol: Pedestrian Fatalities On The Rise

Good Afternoon,

In the past month the low country has had a rise in pedestrian fatalities.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol has seen a spike in fatalities not only down here in the lower part of the state but state wide in general.

We continue to strive to work towards our Target Zero initiative and by doing this we will educate and enforce the pedestrian laws.

Attached is a picture to explain pedestrian visibility and safety:

South Carolina Facts:

• *Pedestrians are at fault about 63 percent of the time;
• *76 percent of pedestrian fatalities in 2006 were male, average age was 40;
• *Primary causes: illegally in the roadway and improper crossing.

Stay Safe:

*Never assume the vehicle driver sees you. Signal to drivers that you intend to cross.

*Get familiar with South Carolina pedestrian laws.

*Wear light and reflective material if you are a pedestrian at night.

*Look both ways: Look left, right, and left again.

*Cross streets at marked locations or safest possible area.

*Look out for turning cars.

–Lance Corporal H.R. Wimberly

Community Relations Officer Troop 6

South Carolina Highway Patrol