Earlier this year there was a survey conducted that rated South Carolina’s drivers as the worst in the nation. The survey analyzed statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to come to the conclusion. The data is shocking and will be discussed further below. The survey certainly raises the question of why there are so many car accidents in South Carolina.
The Survey
The survey was conducted using NHTSA data regarding several different categories. They included:
- The fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles;
- Failure to obey (which is the percentage of fatal crashes that involved traffic signals, failure to wear seatbelts and driving without a valid license);
- Percentage of fatal accidents that involved alcohol;
- Percentage of fatal accidents that involved speeding; and
- Careless driving (number of bicycle and pedestrian fatalities per 100,000 population).
South Carolina, for the above categories, had the worst fatality rate in the US and ranked 8th worst for drunk driving, 5th worst for careless driving and 15th worst in speeding. The only stat that was better than average for South Carolina was failure to obey, at 31st worst.
Accidents In South Carolina
Clearly, accidents are a danger here in Upstate South Carolina. The survey referenced above gives a few clues as to why that might be.
Many of the common causes of accidents are rolled up into the survey. Common causes of accidents are often cited as including:
- Alcohol use;
- Inattention;
- Distracted driving;
- Inappropriate speed;
- Poor weather conditions;
- Poor road conditions; and
- Inappropriate cell phone use.
If you look at this list, it is easy to understand South Carolina’s ranking. We were on the bottom of the list because of the statistics that regarded alcohol use, inattentive drivers, inappropriate speed and distracted driving.
Involved In An Accident?
Obviously, the circumstances surrounding an accident are unique to the particular situation. However, given the statistics, a great deal of the serious accidents in South Carolina may have clear-cut causes. Drunk or inattentive/distracted drivers are responsible for many wrecks in South Carolina. While South Carolina does not have a law specifically prohibiting the use of a cell phone while driving, the behavior still contributes to many accidents. The common thread that ties all of this together, though, is the fact that many accidents are preventable but instead are caused by irresponsible or careless behaviors.
If you have been involved in an accident, the facts surrounding the wreck are very important. Was distracted driving involved? Was the other driver drinking and driving? Was the other driver texting while driving? Unfortunately, most drivers who are at fault aren’t going to take responsibility. In order to get to the bottom of the facts surrounding your accident, you should consider retaining an experienced personal injury attorney. Dan Pruitt has been representing accident victims in Upstate South Carolina for over 20 years. He knows which questions to ask and what avenues of inquiry to pursue. Call the office at (864) 232-4273 to schedule your free consultation today. He will review the facts of your case and create a strategy to help you get the results you deserve.