Hilton Head Pedestrian Accident Attorneys
Suffered an Injury Caused by a Negligent Driver in Hilton Head, SC?
Pedestrian accidents are unfortunately common and can lead to severe injuries or even fatalities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident in Hilton Head, South Carolina, it’s crucial to understand your rights and legal options. At Bauer & Metro, P.C., our experienced team of Hilton Head pedestrian accident lawyers is dedicated to helping victims pursue compensation for their injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
To find out how our Hilton Head pedestrian accident attorneys can help, give us a call at (843) 920-2844 or contact us online today.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrian accidents can occur in various scenarios, often due to the negligence of drivers or other parties. Some of the most common causes of pedestrian accidents include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted are a major risk to pedestrians. Inattention to crosswalks, school zones, and pedestrian-heavy areas can lead to devastating accidents.
- Speeding: Speeding drivers are less likely to stop in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian, especially in residential areas or places where pedestrians are frequently crossing streets.
- Failure to Yield: Pedestrians have the right of way in crosswalks, but drivers may fail to yield, leading to serious accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs have reduced reaction times and impaired judgment, making them more likely to cause pedestrian accidents.
- Poor Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can reduce visibility for drivers, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Left Turns at Intersections: Drivers making left turns may focus on other vehicles and neglect to check for pedestrians, leading to collisions in crosswalks.
South Carolina Pedestrian Laws
Understanding the pedestrian laws in South Carolina is crucial for determining liability in an accident. The state has specific rules designed to protect pedestrians and reduce the risk of accidents:
- Right of Way: South Carolina law gives pedestrians the right of way at crosswalks and intersections. Drivers must stop and allow pedestrians to cross safely.
- Use of Sidewalks: Pedestrians are required to use sidewalks when available. If there are no sidewalks, pedestrians should walk on the left side of the road facing traffic to increase visibility.
- Jaywalking: Crossing the street outside of a designated crosswalk or intersection is considered jaywalking, which can affect liability in an accident.
- Pedestrian Signals: Pedestrians are required to obey traffic signals, including walk and don’t walk signals at intersections. Failing to follow these signals can result in a reduced ability to recover compensation in an accident claim.
Pedestrian laws are designed to protect both pedestrians and drivers, and understanding these regulations is vital in determining who is at fault in a pedestrian accident.
Who is Liable for a Pedestrian Accident?
Determining liability in a pedestrian accident can be complex, as it often involves multiple parties. In most cases, the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian will be held liable. However, there are situations where other parties may also be responsible. These include:
- Negligent Drivers: The most common scenario is that the driver who hits a pedestrian is found liable due to negligent behavior, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failing to yield.
- Pedestrians: In some cases, a pedestrian may be partially responsible for the accident if they were jaywalking, crossing against a signal, or not using a crosswalk. South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if the pedestrian is found to be partially at fault, their compensation may be reduced by their percentage of fault.
- Government Entities: Poorly maintained roads, malfunctioning traffic signals, or dangerous crosswalk designs may contribute to a pedestrian accident. In such cases, the local government or entity responsible for road maintenance could be held liable.
- Vehicle Manufacturers: If a vehicle’s malfunction, such as brake failure or faulty steering, contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the vehicle may be held liable in addition to the driver.
Contact us today at (843) 920-2844 to request a free case review.
