Columbia, S.C.There has been a noticeable decrease in fatal collisions in South Carolina this year; as of August 13, 513 fatalities had been reported, down from 624 at the same time in 2024. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety claims that this results in 111 fewer fatalities.
The number of road deaths this year is also less than the numbers at this stage in 2022 (653 deaths) and 2023 (639 deaths), which is a three-year low.
Enforcement, Awareness, and Better Choices
Trooper William Bennett of the South Carolina Highway Patrol said the decrease in fatalities is positive and might be enhanced by the state’s upcoming hands-free driving law, which is scheduled to go into effect in September.
Bennett expressed hope that the number of collisions will continue to decline and that more drivers will realize how important it is to avoid using a phone while operating a motor vehicle after the hands-free rule goes into effect.
Officials attribute the drop to a number of factors, including public awareness programs, greater interstate enforcement, and drivers making more informed judgments.
How Troopers Are Tackling Roadway Risks
On state highways, interstates, and rural routes, the South Carolina Highway Patrol has increased its high-visibility patrol. Troopers also speak about safe driving, especially minimizing cell phone distractions, at community centers, schools, and driver education programs.
Bennett said, “I believe that the enforcement we’re doing is having an impact, but it’s also our educational initiatives and the messages we post on social media.”
Looking Ahead
Officials are cautiously confident that the new hands-free law, education, and ongoing enforcement will further reduce the number of fatalities by the end of the year.
Although there has been progress, Bennett underlined that in order to avoid collisions, we just need to reduce distractions as much as possible.
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