Despite a variety of new initiatives, the state of South Carolina has been ranked 49th for bicycling and pedestrian safety, according to new rankings released by a national advocacy group, Alliance for Biking and Walking. Only Florida is more dangerous for pedestrian accidents, according to the study results.

A disproportionate number of walkers and bicyclists are killed each year, the study claims, with more than 11.9 percent of traffic fatalities affecting these groups. This is in spite of the fact that only 2.1 percent of trips to work are by bicycle or foot in South Carolina. Nationwide, bicyclists and pedestrians account for about 12 percent of all trips and 14 percent of traffic fatalities involve these groups.

The report appears to not include those who walk recreationally or for other purposes, which may skew results. The information comes from a grant funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; the effort is designed to recognize areas that do a good job of promoting walking activities and protecting pedestrians.

Areas in the northern United States tend to be more effective at managing pedestrian and bicycle safety, the study states. Alaska, Vermont and New York are among the most responsible areas, spending the most on pedestrian and bicycle projects. Washington, D.C. and Boston are the best individual cities for those using bikes and foot-based transportation.

On the other hand, South Carolina spends 95 cents per capita on bike and pedestrian projects, compared to the national average of $2.17. Despite this, a number of new initiatives have sprung up in an attempt to increase bicycle and pedestrian traffic in the state.

For example, a new multi-use walking trail has been installed in Sumter, and pedestrians can enjoy a new trail along the Arthur J. Ravenel Bridge that connects Charleston and Mt. Pleasant. Hopefully, these efforts and more will make South Carolina a safer place for walkers and bikers.

Sources: The State, "SC ranks poorly for cyclists, pedestrians," Joey Holleman, Jan. 31, 2012; Bike World News, "National Report Ranks Cities and States for Bicycling and Walking," Ron Callahan, Jan. 24, 2012