The number of South Carolina traffic fatalities is up this year, following three years of decline, and officials are pointing to a spike in pedestrian and motorcyclist deaths as the reason for the upswing, say media outlets.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, as of October 30, there have been 691 traffic-related fatalities, compared with 673 fatalities for the same period in 2010. While the overall number of deaths is likely to be less than 1,000 for the fourth year in a row, an increase in motorcyclist and pedestrian deaths is giving authorities pause.
Last year, 70 pedestrians and 76 motorcyclists died on the state’s roads. This year, 92 pedestrians and the same number of motorcyclists have lost their lives through October 30. Over the past three years, state law enforcement has focused on speeding, seatbelt violations, and driving under the influence. Officials are now turning their attention to putting together a safety program aimed at pedestrians, said a Department of Public Safety spokesperson.
As a Greenville car accident lawyer, roadway safety is something that I am very conscious of. I encourage drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to be mindful of their surroundings. Because of my experience as a Greenville personal injury attorney, I am very aware of the split-second difference between everything seeming fine and a terrible crash. I urge all roadway users to always practice safe travel habits.
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