South Carolina Road Deaths Drop by 111 in 2025, Marking Significant Safety Milestone
COLUMBIA, S.C. — South Carolina is experiencing a notable decline in deadly crashes this year, with 513 fatalities reported as of August 13, compared to 624 deaths at the same point in 2024. That’s 111 fewer lives lost, according to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety.
This year’s total is also lower than figures recorded at this point in 2023 (639 deaths) and 2022 (653 deaths), marking a three-year low in roadway fatalities.
Enforcement, Awareness, and Better Choices
South Carolina Highway Patrol Trooper William Bennett said the drop in deaths is encouraging and could be further improved with the state’s new hands-free driving law, set to take effect in September.
“Hopefully the number of crashes keeps going down, and with the hands-free law taking effect… even more drivers will learn the importance of staying off the phone behind the wheel,” Bennett said.
While there isn’t a single factor behind the decline, officials point to increased enforcement on interstates, public awareness campaigns, and drivers making smarter decisions as contributing to the trend.
How Troopers Are Tackling Roadway Risks
The South Carolina Highway Patrol has stepped up high-visibility patrols on interstates, state highways, and rural roads. Troopers also visit schools, community centers, and driver education classes to talk about safe driving, particularly about limiting distractions from cell phones.
“I think the enforcement we’re doing is making a difference,” Bennett noted, “but it’s also our educational efforts and the messages we put out on social media.”
Looking Ahead
Officials remain cautiously optimistic, hoping that continued enforcement, education, and the upcoming hands-free law will push fatality numbers even lower by year’s end.
Bennett emphasized that while progress has been made, “We just need to limit distractions as much as possible to prevent collisions from happening.”
Do you think the hands-free law will further reduce road deaths in South Carolina? Share your thoughts at SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
