Charleston’s historic charm, cobblestone streets, and dining options draw millions of visitors every year. However, the same features that make the city a popular destination also create significant risks for pedestrians and drivers. The high volume of foot traffic, combined with narrow streets and heavy vehicle congestion, can often lead to serious intersection and crosswalk accidents.
When you explore the Battery or shop on King Street, you do not expect a life‑altering collision. Yet accidents near Charleston’s tourist hotspots occur with concerning frequency. Understanding where these risks are highest and why they happen can help you stay safe. If an accident does occur, knowing your legal options is important.
Dangerous Intersections in Charleston’s Historic and Tourist Districts
Any intersection can be hazardous, but certain areas of downtown Charleston experience a higher number of accidents due to the density of people and vehicles. In 2025, Consumer Affairs ranked Charleston drivers 10th worst in the country. Also in 2025, a Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Law was passed, taking effect on September 1, 2025.
King Street and Calhoun Street
Located near Marion Square and the center of the retail district, the intersection of King and Calhoun is among the busiest in the city. Pedestrians often cross mid‑block or step into the street while distracted by storefronts. Meanwhile, drivers must handle heavy traffic and search for parking. This combination makes collisions more likely.
Meeting Street and Market Street
The area surrounding the Charleston City Market presents challenges. Pedestrians share the road with tour buses, delivery trucks, and horse‑drawn carriages. The complexity of this traffic mix, especially during peak tourist seasons, increases the likelihood of a failure‑to‑yield or broadside collision.
East Bay Street and Market Street
As a primary artery for those visiting Waterfront Park and nearby restaurants along the harbor, East Bay Street experiences constant vehicle flow. The intersection at Market Street poses particular danger for pedestrians trying to reach the park. Some drivers accelerate to catch lights or overlook people in the crosswalk.
Meeting Street and Calhoun Street
This high‑traffic intersection serves many historic sites and major hotels. Both tourists unfamiliar with the area and local commuters move through this corridor. As a result, this area creates a higher‑risk environment for intersection accidents.
Why Accidents Happen Near Charleston’s Tourist Hotspots
Several factors contribute to the accident rate in these areas:
- Driver distraction: Many drivers in downtown Charleston are visitors. They may follow GPS directions, search for parking, or focus on historic architecture rather than on the road and crosswalks.
- Pedestrian confusion: Visitors may not understand local traffic patterns or the timing of crossing signals. In a walkable city like Charleston, tourists sometimes assume they have the right of way even when a signal indicates otherwise.
- Infrastructure challenges: Charleston’s historic street layout did not anticipate modern traffic volumes. Narrow streets and limited visibility at some corners make it harder for drivers to see pedestrians in time.
- Failure to yield: Because of impatience or lack of awareness, some drivers fail to yield to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, especially when making right turns on red.
Why Hire a Charleston Crosswalk Accident Lawyer After an Incident?
Handling the aftermath of an intersection or crosswalk accident involves more than just medical recovery; it also involves addressing the emotional and psychological impact of the incident. It requires a thorough investigation into traffic signal timing, driver behavior, and local ordinances. A Charleston pedestrian accident lawyer can:
- Investigate the Scene: Our legal team analyzes intersection layouts and gathers surveillance footage from nearby businesses.
- Handle Insurance Adjusters: We manage all communications with insurance companies to prevent you from making statements that could jeopardize your claim.
- Prove Liability: Using evidence like police reports and witness statements, our attorneys establish the driver’s negligence.
Common Injuries in Crosswalk and Intersection Collisions
Pedestrians have no physical protection when a motor vehicle hits them. Even at lower speeds, the impact can cause serious injuries. Common injuries include:
- Fractures and broken bones: Impact with a vehicle or the pavement can result in broken limbs, hips, or ribs.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Head trauma poses a significant risk in pedestrian accidents and can lead to long‑term cognitive issues.
- Soft tissue injuries: Severe bruising, ligament tears, and muscle damage may require extensive physical therapy.
- Spinal cord damage: Collisions can cause permanent paralysis or chronic back and neck pain.
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims
If you were injured due to a driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for emergency room visits, surgeries, and ongoing rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for time missed from work during your recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Future Care: Funding for long-term medical needs or modifications to your home if you suffered a permanent disability.
What to Do After an Accident in a Charleston Tourist Area
If an accident occurs at a Charleston intersection, taking the following steps can help protect your health and any future legal claim:
- Ensure safety and call 911: Move to a safe area if possible and contact the Charleston Police Department. An official police report can serve as important evidence.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms immediately.
- Collect evidence: Use your phone to photograph the intersection, crosswalk signals, vehicle damage, and your injuries.
- Gather witness information: Tourist areas are usually crowded. Collect contact information from anyone who witnessed the accident.
- Avoid admitting fault: Be polite but brief. Do not apologize or make statements that someone could interpret as an admission of liability.
How Crantford Meehan Assists Injured Pedestrians
Handling a personal injury claim in Charleston requires familiarity with local laws and court procedures. At Crantford Meehan, our attorneys handle claims arising from crosswalk and intersection accidents in and around Charleston.
Our partners, William C. Crantford and Jerry A. Meehan Jr., both graduated from the Trial Lawyers College. This training reflects the firm’s focus on representing individuals in disputes with insurers and other opposing parties. The firm holds an AV Preeminent rating from Martindale‑Hubbell, a peer‑review rating for legal ability and ethical standards.
“Our attorneys have obtained significant results for our clients, including a $400,000 settlement for a North Charleston pedestrian who was struck while crossing Dorchester Road. Results depend on the specific facts of each case, and past outcomes do not guarantee future results. Whether your accident occurred on King Street or on a busy suburban road, we work diligently and thoroughly to pursue your claim.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is at fault if I were hit in a crosswalk in Charleston?
South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may recover damages if you are 50% or less at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What if I were partially outside the crosswalk?
Being outside the crosswalk does not automatically bar recovery. Our team can investigate the driver’s speed, attention, and other circumstances to evaluate whether the driver could have avoided the collision.
How long do I have to file a claim in South Carolina?
In many personal injury cases, the South Carolina statute of limitations is three years from the date of the accident (S.C. Code Ann. § 15-3-530). Certain circumstances can affect this deadline, so speak with an attorney promptly about your specific situation.
Can I recover damages if the driver was a tourist in a rental car?
Yes. Claims involving rental cars can be more complex because they may involve multiple insurance policies. Our firm handles claims that involve rental and out‑of‑state drivers and works to identify all potential sources of coverage.
Do I need a lawyer for a minor intersection accident?
Even minor accidents can lead to delayed symptoms or long‑term complications. A legal review can help ensure that an insurance company does not undervalue your claim.
Contact a Charleston Intersection & Crosswalk Accident Lawyer
If a crosswalk or intersection accident near one of Charleston’s tourist areas injured you, you do not have to deal with insurance companies on your own. Crantford Meehan offers 24‑hour availability and a contingency fee structure. Based on our contingency fee policy, you only owe fees if the firm recovers compensation on your behalf. Costs and terms are explained in a written fee agreement that we will review with you.
Contact us at our Charleston office at (843) 832-1120 to schedule a free case review and discuss your situation with a pedestrian accident lawyer.
