What Are the Deadliest Types of Roads in South Carolina?
Car accidents in South Carolina occur on certain types of roads more often than others, according to a recent nationwide traffic safety study conducted by MoneyGeek. In fact, two types of roads in particular – state highways and US highways – had more fatal car accidents than most states throughout the nation.
In South Carolina, state highways are the most dangerous
MoneyGeek recently conducted a nationwide study examining fatal car accidents on various types of roads and highways between 2019 and 2021. Based on this comprehensive analysis, it was revealed that state highways in South Carolina ranked as the second deadliest among all states in the United States. Only Alaska surpassed South Carolina in the number of fatal car crashes occurring on state highways, which MoneyGeek categorizes as high-speed roads maintained by the state.
During the period from 2019 to 2021, South Carolina reported a total of 1,731 car accident fatalities, specifically on state highways. This alarming statistic accounted for a significant portion, specifically 57.7 percent, of all car accident deaths in the state, earning South Carolina the unfortunate distinction of having the second-highest accident rate for state highways across the nation.
US highway accidents among top 10 nationwide in South Carolina
In addition to its concerning statistics regarding state highways, South Carolina found itself ranked among the top 10 states nationwide for the highest number of car accident fatalities occurring on US highways. These highways, classified as high-speed roads maintained by the federal government, were the focus of MoneyGeek's analysis.
Between 2019 and 2021, South Carolina secured the 8th position in terms of highest car accident fatality rates on US highways. Within this timeframe, a total of 818 deaths were recorded on US highways in South Carolina, contributing to a significant portion, approximately 27.3 percent, of the state's overall car accident fatalities.
Other types of dangerous roads in South Carolina
So, just how dangerous are other types of roads in South Carolina? To provide a comprehensive picture, the MoneyGeek study included fatal car accident data for three additional categories of roads. Examining the period between 2019 and 2021, South Carolina experienced a total of 2,998 car accident fatalities. Here's the breakdown by road type:
- Interstate highways (high-speed roads connecting traffic from one state to another) – Accounting for 11.1 percent of car accident deaths statewide in South Carolina.
- County roads (roads maintained by a state-organized municipality or town) – Comprising 3.7 percent of fatal car accidents throughout the state.
- Local streets (local roads with speed limits ranging from 20 to 45 mph) – Contributing a minimal 0.2 percent to the total fatal car accidents.
What's even more concerning is the escalating nature of the problem. In 2022, South Carolina witnessed a surge in at-fault car accidents, surpassing all other states in the country, as indicated by a recent traffic safety study by Insurify. Specifically, South Carolina ranked highest in traffic fatalities per mile and per capita compared to every other state during 2022.
What to do if you're injured in a South Carolina car accident
You need to take two immediate steps if you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving negligence. First and foremost, seek prompt medical attention to address any injuries and ensure your well-being. A doctor can diagnose and document your injuries, which is important if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim or lawsuit.
Second, contact an experienced car accident lawyer to review your potential legal options. An attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process, gather evidence, assess your case, and advocate for the compensation you deserve under South Carolina law.
At Twenge + Twombley Law Firm, attorneys Karl D. Twenge and J. Ashley Twombley prioritize client service. Our dedicated legal team approaches each case individually and strives for the best possible outcomes. Get the car accident attorneys you can trust when you're hurt.
Contact us today for a free case evaluation. Our office is conveniently located in the heart of historic downtown Beaufort, but we also offer legal representation to clients in Hilton Head, Bluffton, and throughout South Carolina's Lowcountry.