Number of Deaths from Automobile Accidents in South Carolina Goes Up In 2012
Number of Deaths from Automobile Accidents in South Carolina Goes Up In 2012The number of deaths from automobile accidents in South Carolina rose in 2012, compared to 2011, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
In 2011, 827 deaths were reported on the highway; in 2012, that number rose to 833.
Both of these numbers are still lower than South Carolina’s all-time high, from 2007. That year, 1,052 died because of automobile accidents. The record low is still from 1982, with only 730 deaths from automobile accidents.
The last two years’ numbers are still troubling, however. After 2007, car accident-related deaths fell to its lowest point in 2010, with 806 fatalities. Since then, the number has been rising again.
Officials say that over half of the deaths this past year occurred because drivers and passengers were not wearing seatbelts. “So many of those deaths are preventable. It only takes a second to click a seat belt,” Highway Patrol Lance Cpl. Brent Kelly said. 554 of the 833 deaths – 58% – occurred simply because people inside the vehicle were not wearing seatbelts.
Automobile Accident Trends for 2012
When the overall automobile accident numbers are broken down, more disturbing trends begin to show. Pedestrian deaths in South Carolina seem to be rising – 115 pedestrians were struck by vehicles and killed this past year, compared to 110 in 2011, and 89 in 2010.
Officers are still working on the number of DUI-related automobile accidents. The Highway Patrol says that it will not know those exact numbers for several more months.
Greenville County reported the most deaths from automobile accidents, at 65. Richland County reported 51 deaths, while Spartanburg and Lexington had 48 deaths each. Union, Bamberg, and Marlboro counties reported one death each, making their roads some of the safest in the state.
State troopers say that they will continue education outreach programs in 2013, in an effort to lower automobile accident fatalities.
The Strom Law Firm Can Help with Automobile Accident Injury Cases
Automobile accidents are a common occurrence all over the nation. Even when the accident is just a fender-bender, drivers and passengers can sustain injuries that may not show up immediately after the accident. It is important not only to get the insurance and contact information of the driver who hit your car, but also to immediately see a doctor to learn about any potential neck or spine injuries.
Typical causes of automobile accidents include driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol, automobile defect, failed maintenance, failing to be careful, speeding, running stops signs or stop lights, failing to yield the right of way, not paying attention because of using cell phone or PDA, adjusting radio or DVD player, or eating while driving.
Depending upon the facts of your accident case, our South Carolina accident lawyers may also assert a claim for punitive damages. Punitive damages may be awarded in cases where malicious or reckless conduct may be shown.
If you or a loved one has been injured or even killed in an automobile accident through no fault of their own, you may be entitled to compensation. The attorneys at the Strom Law Firm offer free, confidential consultations to discuss the facts of your case. Do not hesitate to contact us with questions or concerns about your automobile accident. 803.252.4800
