Car Accident Fatalities in South Carolina Reach 8-Year High

The South Carolina Department of Transportation recently released its Traffic Fatality Report for 2015, detailing the deaths caused by auto accidents in the last year. The results were sobering: according to the data, 2015 was the worst year for automobile fatalities in South Carolina since 2007, with 950 deaths in the past year.

The report contained some detailed information about where and why the deaths occurred, as well as possible means of preventing them. Charleston county saw a 25% increase in traffic fatalities from the previous year, and had the fourth-highest number of deaths in the state. The majority of fatalities involved car passengers who failed to use their seat belts. Over 40% involved a car leaving the road.

The news was also grim for motorcycle accidents. Fatalities rose from 88 to 132, the highest number ever recorded in the state of South Carolina.

These numbers show the value of using recommended safety equipment on your vehicles, and keeping control of your car. But many people who die in car accidents were not to blame, and died due to the carelessness of another driver. If you have a loved one who was killed by a reckless driver, you can sue the driver for damages, including:

• Medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering incurred by your loved one before his or her death.
• Losses incurred by family members and loved ones as a result of the death.
• Emotional pain and suffering incurred by family members and loved ones.
• Punitive damages

To file a wrongful death claim on behalf of a loved one who died in an auto accident, contact the Steinberg Law Firm at 843-720-2800. Our lawyers will fight to ensure you receive just compensation under the law. We serve Charleston, Goose Creek, Summerville, and surrounding communities, and offer a free initial consultation.