According to the 2016 South Carolina Traffic Collision Fact Book presented by the SC Department of Public Safety, traffic accidents have been on the rise since 2012. The number of traffic fatalities increased by 4.2% from 2015 to 2016 alone. Those numbers go from 979 traffic deaths in 2015 to 1,020 traffic deaths in 2016.
Because of so many highway deaths, the South Carolina Highway Patrol began a Target Zero campaign that aims to reduce traffic deaths to zero a year. Even one death in a family is too many and the organization is working to reduce accidents and fatalities.
In 2016 for instance, there were a total of 61,899 reported traffic injuries. That number was up 5.6% from the year prior.
According to the latest info in the SC Traffic Collision Fact Book, these are the primary contributing factors for all auto accidents in SC:
- 9,366 - Distracted/Inattention
- 41,824 - Driving too fast for conditions
- 27,501 - Failed to yield the right of way
- 5,606 - Driving under the influence
- 1,297 - Aggressive operation of vehicle
It was also noted that male drivers accounted for 69.8% of drivers in fatal crashes.
The amount of accidents, injuries, and deaths on South Carolina highways is unnecessary. Always obey the laws, limit your distractions, and drive defensively.
Have You Been Injured In A Charleston South Carolina Area Car Accident?
If you've been injured in a car accident you should speak with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Contact us online or call our Charleston, South Carolina office directly at 843.488.2359 to schedule your consultation. We are also able to meet clients at our Conway, Myrtle Beach, Murrells Inlet, Mt. Pleasant, North Myrtle Beach or North Charleston office locations.
