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    speeding

    Speed limits save lives, yet thousands of drivers rush along South Carolina roads traveling at speeds beyond the posted limits every day. The result is simple: the Palmetto State experiences the nation’s highest fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled—1.85 in 2022, according to IIHS-HLDI. Speeding magnifies force, erases reaction time, and turns an unexpected situation at a stop sign or traffic signal into a fatal car accident.

    If another driver pushed past the posted speed limit and caused your wreck, Joye Law Firm Injury Lawyers is ready to help. Our speeding car accident attorneys will investigate the crash, manage your medical treatment, and pursue maximum compensation. Call us at (888) 324-3100 to schedule a consultation and protect your rights.

    How Joye Law Firm Assists Speeding Accident Victims

    1. Prompt case investigation – We secure the crash report, speak with witnesses, and preserve black-box data before it is lost.
    2. Clear fault analysis – Using police findings, traffic signals, phone records, and speed‑limit data, we show how the other driver’s speed broke South Carolina traffic laws.
    3. Full damage assessment – We document emergency services bills, future medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs that may result from your injuries.
    4. Deal‑making strength – Insurers know our trial record. We’ve secured over half a billion dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. That reputation helps victims receive fair compensation without unnecessary delay.
    5. No Fee Guarantee – You pay nothing upfront and nothing at all unless we recover money for you.

    Ready to discuss your case? Call us or complete our online form to schedule a consultation. Our team is available 24/7 to speak with you.

    Real Results: How Joye Law Firm Secured Justice for Injury Victims

    At Joye Law Firm, our attorneys are committed to fighting for clients who face life-altering injuries and unjust treatment by insurers. These three recent case outcomes highlight our dedication to securing full and fair compensation:

    $800,000 Settlement for On-the-Job Car Accident Victim

    A 40-year-old tire technician from the Midlands suffered severe back injuries after being T-boned by a commercial vehicle while working. Despite the at-fault driver admitting fault, the victim’s workers’ compensation claim was denied, and he faced significant financial hardship. Attorney Sydney Lynn pursued both a workers’ comp and third-party personal injury claim, ultimately securing an $800,000 settlement to support the client’s recovery and family.

    Jury Awards $130,000 Each to Driver and Passenger After Rear-End Crash

    Two friends attending a car show in Berkeley County were rear-ended by a distracted driver, leading to nearly a year of medical treatment and $30,000 in medical bills each. When the insurance company offered low settlements, Attorney John Aylor took the case to trial. The jury awarded both clients $130,000—more than triple the insurer’s best offers.

    $450,000 Settlement for Victim of High-Speed Rear-End Crash in Myrtle Beach

    A 60-year-old Myrtle Beach man traveling on Peachtree Road (posted speed of 45 miles per hour) was slowing down to make a turn and struck from behind by another driver traveling at an estimated 65 miles per hour. The crash aggravated his pre-existing back and neck conditions, leading to chronic pain and limited mobility. Attorney Tommy Terrell demonstrated how the collision worsened his condition and impacted his daily life. He successfully secured a $450,000 settlement to help cover his medical costs, lost income, and long-term care needs through the at-fault driver’s insurance and the client’s Underinsured Motorist (UIM) policy.

    Client Testimonials

    Words can hardly express how grateful I am for the outstanding performance of this law firm. Several months ago, I was in a wreck, and my life was turned upside down. The uphill battle was a day-to-day experience, but Ran and Alice gave me hope from day 1 that I had a voice in what happened and that I was going to have light at the end of the tunnel I was in. These people are truly and sincerely motivated to help you. I implore anyone and everyone who has been in an accident to please contact this law firm and get Ran, Alice, or any of their other team members behind you. You will not be disappointed! Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you have done for me! I will continue to spread the good word around.

    Review by: Josiah Myers Reviewing: Car Accident Legal Services Date published: 11/14/2020 Rating: ★★★★★ 5 / 5 stars

    Speeding on South Carolina Roads: A Persistent Threat

    State and National Data

    These numbers place South Carolina near the top for fatal crashes linked to careless driving at higher speeds. Each one is a precious life lost, and a family left shattered. Traffic deaths burden loved ones with funeral bills, wage loss, and intense grief. Survivors face serious injuries that may never fully heal.

    Driving Too Fast for Conditions

    Driving in excess of the posted limit is reckless and can cause a crash. However, sometimes even following the speed limit can be dangerous. In fact, a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) report revealed that only 55 percent of speeding-related crashes occurred when a driver was going over the posted limit. The other 45 percent of crashes attributed to speeding were caused by drivers going faster than it was safe to drive, given the current road conditions.

    If there is bad weather, such as rain, fog, or a rare snow/ice event, drivers are expected to reduce their speed to account for the slippery roads and reduced visibility. Likewise, drivers who exercise reasonable and appropriate care will adjust their speed in heavy-traffic situations or other dangerous conditions where a crash is more likely to occur. This is to a level where they can safely operate their vehicle.

    South Carolina’s Speeding Laws

    According to South Carolina law (Section 56-5-1520), drivers must always maintain a safe and reasonable speed, adjusting for things like traffic, weather, road conditions, and potential hazards. Even if the posted limit says 55 mph, you’re expected to slow down if it’s foggy or traffic is heavy. The main idea? Drive safely, not just legally.

    Maximum Speed Limits at a Glance:

    • 70 mph on interstate highways and other freeways (where posted).
    • 60 mph on multi-lane divided primary roads (where posted).
    • 55 mph on most other paved roads.
    • 40 mph on unpaved roads.
    • If you’re towing a mobile, modular, or manufactured home, your speed must be 10 mph under the posted limit and never over 55 mph.

    In urban areas, the speed limit is typically 30 mph, particularly in areas with closely spaced buildings or businesses. After conducting traffic studies, local governments can lower it even further (except on state highways). Many suburbs adopt a 25 mph limit.

    There are also specific times when slowing down is not just smart — it’s required by law. This includes:

    • Approaching intersections or railroad crossings
    • Curves, hills, or narrow roads
    • Poor weather conditions
    • Areas where pedestrians, cyclists, golf carts, or other hazards are present

    Penalties for Speeding in South Carolina

    Speeding comes with penalties, and the fines increase based on how far over the limit you are:

    • 1–10 mph over: $15–$25 fine
    • 11–14 mph over: $25–$50 fine
    • 15–24 mph over: $50–$75 fine
    • 25+ mph over: $75–$200 fine or up to 30 days in jail

    Also, every speeding ticket must include the speed you were going, and part of the money collected from fines goes toward hiring more highway patrol officers.

    At Joye Law Firm, we’re here to help you after a car accident. As South Carolina car accident lawyers, we work with you to gather the evidence needed to show that the other driver was speeding. Even in situations where the driver wasn’t technically breaking the speed limit but was going too fast for the conditions, we know it’s still possible to prove they were at fault.

    In fact, we can often show the other driver was speeding, even if they claim otherwise. We use evidence collected at the accident scene, witness testimony, and, when needed, bring in accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your case. We’re with you every step of the way to help prove fault in speeding accidents.

    Recovering Fair Compensation After Severe Injuries

    A South Carolina car accident caused by speed often drains family finances. Damages may cover:

    • Past and future medical costs, including therapy and prescriptions
    • Income lost during recovery and reduced earning power
    • Property damage to your car
    • Other costs such as home‑care aides, wheelchairs, and vehicle modifications
    • Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
    • Wrongful death benefits in fatal crashes, such as funeral bills and loss of support
    • Punitive Damages in cases involving extreme negligence, like drunk driving

    Preventing Speeding‑Related Crashes: Public Safety Actions

    To reduce fatalities and serious injuries, public safety actions must address speeding directly and effectively. Here are some ways:

    Strengthening Enforcement of Speed Limits Image of a police car with its sirens and lights on

    One of the most effective ways to prevent speeding-related crashes is through strict speed limit enforcement. Law enforcement agencies across South Carolina conduct regular speed checks using radar and cameras. Increasing patrols in high-risk areas, especially on rural roads where fatal crashes are more common, helps deter reckless driving.

    • Use visible speed traps in areas with a history of crashes.
    • Install more automated speed enforcement cameras where allowed by law.
    • Increase fines and penalties for drivers caught exceeding speed limits.

    Public Awareness Campaigns

    Educating drivers about the dangers of speeding is another way to prevent accidents in South Carolina. Campaigns led by the National Safety Council and the Department of Public Safety often emphasize the link between higher speeds and severe injuries or fatalities.

    Public messages can focus on:

    • The risk of fatal collisions at higher speeds.
    • How speeding reduces reaction time for unexpected situations.
    • The connection between speeding accidents and pedestrian fatalities.

    Improving Road Design and Traffic Signals

    Better road design can naturally slow down traffic and reduce crashes:

    • Use roundabouts to control speed at intersections.
    • Add speed bumps in residential areas.
    • Improve traffic signals to manage flow and prevent dangerous merges.

    Clearer road signs, better lighting, and well-maintained markings also help drivers obey traffic laws, especially at stop signs and busy intersections.

    Community and School Zone Initiativesschool zone traffic sign

    Speeding near schools and in neighborhoods often leads to serious injuries. Public safety programs should:

    • Lower speed limits in school zones during peak hours.
    • Increase the presence of crossing guards and flashing warning lights.
    • Host community meetings to educate families about traffic safety.

    Addressing Impaired and Distracted Driving

    Many speeding-related crashes also involve drunk driving, impaired driving, or distracted driving, such as cell phone use. South Carolina’s public safety campaigns must continue to emphasize the dangers of:

    • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
    • Using a phone while driving.
    • Road rage and careless driving habits.

    Combining speeding with impaired or distracted driving significantly raises the chances that an accident will occur, leading to severe injuries or death.

    Emergency Response and Medical Attention

    Quick emergency services can reduce the severity of injuries from speeding accidents. Improvements include:

    • Faster dispatch of ambulances and fire services.
    • Better training for first responders.
    • Increased access to medical care for injured drivers and passengers.

    The South Carolina Department of Public Safety encourages drivers to always wear seat belts, reducing the risk of fatal injuries in case a crash occurs.

    Contact Our South Carolina Speeding Accident Lawyers Today

    Speeding turns ordinary trips into tragedies. If you or someone dear to you was in a speeding accident, reach out to Joye Law Firm today. Our speeding car accident attorney will review your case, explain your legal options, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

    At Joye Law Firm, we’ve been standing up for South Carolinians since 1968, and we’re ready to stand up for you. Our attorneys have decades of experience handling complex car accident claims, and we know how to hold reckless drivers accountable. We’ve recovered over half a billion dollars for clients across South Carolina.

    Call Joye Law Firm at (888) 324-3100 or fill out our free online case evaluation form.

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