Even at relatively low speeds, collisions between motor vehicles and unprotected pedestrians can have devastating consequences. Therefore, it is crucial for both drivers and walkers to be aware of and consistently follow state law regarding proper and safe conduct around crosswalks, sidewalks, and other places where vehicular and pedestrian traffic may meet.
Anyone who violates traffic laws for Columbia pedestrians and causes an otherwise preventable accident as a result may hold civil liability for ensuing injuries. A talented pedestrian accident attorney from Whetstone Perkins & Fulda could further explain this during an initial consultation, though here is a basic overview of South Carolina regulations around driver and pedestrian behavior on public roadways.
What Does State Law Require Drivers To Do Around Pedestrians?
Pursuant to South Carolina Code of Laws § 56-5-3230, all drivers must demonstrate “due care” to avoid colliding with any pedestrian or bicyclist near them on a public roadway, and they must be especially careful when driving near children or near adults who are visibly confused, intoxicated, or otherwise incapacitated. Furthermore, pursuant to S.C. Code § 56-5-3130, pedestrians in marked crosswalks always have the right-of-way over vehicular traffic, and drivers must stop for pedestrians in crosswalks on the half of the road that the driver is traveling on.
That same traffic law also prohibits Columbia drivers from passing and overtaking other cars that have slowed or stopped at a marked crosswalk to allow a pedestrian to cross. Finally, pursuant to S.C. Code § 56-5-3250, a driver must always yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian on a sidewalk whenever their vehicle is about to cross over a lowered section of that sidewalk. For example, drivers need to yield while exiting an alley or garage and entering a public street.
Legal Rules and Restrictions for Pedestrians
While pedestrians do have the right-of-way over vehicular traffic in both marked crosswalks and on sidewalks, the statutes establishing that right-of-way also state that pedestrians must take care not to step out so suddenly in front of an oncoming car that the driver cannot possibly stop in time to avoid a collision. Likewise, pursuant to S.C. Code § 56-5-3150, pedestrians must yield the right-of-way to motor vehicles already in a public roadway if they are attempting to cross that roadway outside of a marked crosswalk or intersection, and they must utilize pedestrian tunnels wherever they are available.
Additionally, pursuant to S.C. Code § 56-5-3160, pedestrians must always use sidewalks alongside highways when they are available; if there is no sidewalk, pedestrians in Columbia must walk on the left side of the highway, as close as practicable to the outside edge of the road, in compliance with local traffic laws. Finally, pursuant to S.C. Code § 56-5-3170, pedestrians are prohibited from walking on freeways under any circumstances.
Learn More From a Columbia Attorney About Pedestrian Traffic Laws
Unfortunately, even the most careful and law-abiding pedestrians can suffer serious injuries solely because a motor vehicle driver near them acted unlawfully. If you find yourself in this situation, you need to act quickly to understand and enforce your right to seek civil recovery for your injury-related losses.
Support from a knowledgeable lawyer could make a significant difference and dramatically improve your chances of securing a favorable case result. Contact Whetstone Perkins & Fulda today for more information about traffic laws for Columbia pedestrians and about filing suit over pedestrian accidents.
