South Carolina traffic fatalities increased to 837 in 2012 from 828 the previous year. The increase troubles the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, which wants to make sure that residents are safer on the state’s roads and highways.
After examining the data, authorities believe that the main issues behind the fatalities include:
- Driving while intoxicated
- Speeding
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Vehicles running off the road
- Pedestrians illegally in the road
Although these are serious issues, it’s important to note that South Carolina is still below the national average for traffic fatalities. Nationally, traffic-related deaths rose 7 percent during the first nine months of 2012. In South Carolina, fatalities fell 6.4 percent from 2009 through 2012.
How the State Plans to Respond to South Carolina Traffic Accidents
South Carolina’s statistics show that most fatal crashes in 2012 happened at night and involved drivers who were not using seatbelts. So state troopers plan to focus on failure to use seatbelts, driving under the influence and speeding in the coming months.
In addition, officers will be keeping an eye on motorcyclists, bicyclists and pedestrians. Unfortunately, fatalities among these groups also increased in 2012.
Need Legal Help?
Our South Carolina car accident lawyers at Joye Law Firm understand the drastic consequences of auto crashes and are ready to fight for your rights if you or a loved one is the victim of a collision. Please contact us for a free consultation at 877-941-2615 or fill out our convenient online form today.