Carolinas among top 15 states for pedestrian deaths

The Carolinas are among the top 15 states with the most frequent pedestrian deaths, according to a report released Wednesday night.

The Governor's Highway Safety Association reported that pedestrian deaths are increasing faster than driver deaths.

There were almost 6,000 pedestrian deaths last year in the Carolinas, the most in more than 20 years.

South Carolina had the third highest fatality rate of more than 2.5 deaths per 100,000 residents.

North Carolina ranked 13th with almost two deaths per 100,000 residents.

Researchers blamed more drivers and pedestrians being distracted by cellphones and other devices.

Read more top trending stories on wsoctv.com:

• Gastonia man faces murder charge after Mount Holly shooting
• 15-year-old drove minivan during chase, deadly crash, sources say
• Agreement to end 'bathroom bill' but are there enough votes?
• Old ammunition dug up at Frito-Lay factory in southwest Charlotte
• WATCH: Keith Monday's Thursday morning forecast
• VIDEO: Daughter believes attack on father in Washington was hate crime

Cox Media Group