South Carolina Records Fewer Summer Traffic Fatalities in 2025’s “100 Deadly Days”

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina officials say this summer’s travel season was safer than last year, with the state recording a significant drop in traffic fatalities during what is often called the “100 Deadly Days of Summer.”

The period between Memorial Day and Labor Day is traditionally the most dangerous stretch of the year for drivers, when heavier travel, distracted driving, and impaired motorists lead to deadly crashes. But new data shows that in 2025, fewer lives were lost compared to the summer of 2024.

Fatalities Drop Statewide

According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the state has recorded 503 fatal crashes so far this year, compared to 609 at this point in 2024. That’s a decrease of 126 fatalities.

Since January, a total of 537 people have died in traffic accidents statewide, compared to 603 deaths during the same time last year. Officials say the biggest reductions came among motorists and cyclists.

Highway Patrol officials credit increased enforcement for the decline.

“We have increased our patrols on the interstate, making sure everybody gets to their destination safe,” said Lance Corporal Brittany Glover of the Highway Patrol.

Contributing Risk Factors

While enforcement helps, Glover emphasized that crashes often stem from a mix of risky behaviors.

“Driving distracted, not wearing their seatbelt, driving above the posted speed limit and impaired driving — it’s not really a specific thing that we’re focused on or that we have seen as far as with traffic fatalities,” she explained.

Driver feedback supports that. Nelson Alicea, a motorist interviewed by WLTX, said unsafe driving remains a problem despite the decline.

“People tend to just not pay attention and pull out in front of you and disregard stop signs,” Alicea said.

Local Hotspots

Officials noted that Spartanburg County continues to lead the state in fatalities, with 59 deaths so far in 2025. Heavy traffic volumes and a mix of rural and urban roadways make the county one of the state’s most dangerous for drivers.

Residents also pointed out that while summer may be ending, roads remain crowded.

“Summer’s ending, people are going back to school, so traffic is starting to pick up,” Alicea added.

Safety Remains a Year-Round Priority

Highway Patrol officials stressed that while fewer deaths were reported this summer, caution is needed year-round.

“Make sure that you pack your patience whenever you’re traveling. Watch out for other motorists on the roadways, always buckle up, try to post the speed limit, never drive distracted,” Glover advised.

As fall and holiday travel seasons approach, law enforcement agencies say they will continue heightened patrols, particularly along interstates and high-traffic corridors.

Do you think South Carolina should expand year-round highway safety campaigns beyond the summer months to keep fatal crashes down? Share your opinion in the comments and join the conversation at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.