South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Statistics

A critical public safety issue that continues to persist in South Carolina and across the country is motorcycle accidents. As motorcyclist fatality numbers have increased in recent years, it is crucial for bikers, policymakers, and concerned citizens alike to understand South Carolina motorcycle accident statistics so that adequate steps can be taken to exercise caution and prevent injuries and fatalities from happening.

Nationwide Motorcycle Fatality Trends

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 2021 was the deadliest year yet for motorcycle accidents in the country since they began collecting data in 1975. In 2021 alone, 5,932 motorcyclists died, which accounted for 14% of all fatalities related to traffic. This shows an 8% uptick in deaths from the preceding year, which involved the death of 5,506 motorcyclists.

These alarming figures on the national level call for a state-level analysis.

South Carolina Motorcycle Fatalities: A Closer Look

Unfortunately, the situation in South Carolina is dangerous, as it continues to rank among states with the highest motorcycle fatality rates. Based on the most recent data from 2021, 177 motorcyclists were killed in that year. Of all these fatalities, 64% of riders who passed away in a motorcycle crash were not wearing a helmet, meaning that only 36% were helmeted.

Impairment from alcohol was a significant contributing factor to fatal motorcycle crashes, with 40% of motorcycle riders in this state involving a Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher. Thirty-two percent of involved riders had a BAC of 0.08% or higher, which is the legal limit. Alarmingly, 18% of riders had a BAC of 0.15% or higher, which is the level of intoxication that is a dangerous impairment.

These figures highlight just how crucial it is for motorcycle riders to wear helmets and drive sober to reduce the number of fatal crashes.

Trends in Motorcycle Deaths Over Time

Equally concerning is the broader trend of South Carolina motorcycle deaths. In 2022, the state reported 170 motorcycle-related fatalities, which is a slight decrease from the state’s peak of 186 deaths in 2016. Since the early 2000s, the state has consistently seen upward trends, as annual motorcycle deaths used to be under one hundred. As the past decade has seen elevated death tolls, targeted safety interventions are key.

Comparing South Carolina to National Data

The rate of helmet use in fatality cases in South Carolina is lower when compared with the national average. On a state level, 36% of motorcyclist fatalities in 2021 involved helmeted riders, while 61% – nearly double that – were wearing a helmet in crashes across the country.

It is also important to know that South Carolina riders had a notably greater proportion of alcohol-related fatalities when compared with the national average. Across the nation, 29% of fatally hurt motorcyclists were found to be over the legal alcohol limit, while in South Carolina, it was 32%. This suggests a rate of intoxicated driving that is above average.

Contributing Factors to South Carolina Motorcycle Accidents

There are multiple factors that continue to contribute to South Carolina motorcycle accidents. For one, South Carolina has extremely lax helmet laws, only requiring the use of a helmet for riders under the age of 21. This means that it is not against the law for riders aged 21 and over to ride without a helmet, making South Carolina riders more prone to fatal head injuries due to a lack of protection.

Alcohol is also a significant contributor to motorcycle accidents, which is reflective of the broader DUI rates seen across the state. Furthermore, because of South Carolina’s warmer weather and strong tourism industry, more motorcycles are seen on the roads year-round. Lack of poor infrastructure also contributes to the risk of accidents, including factors like lack of adequate signage and lighting.

FAQs

Q: Do I Have to Wear a Helmet While Riding in South Carolina?

A: No, you do not have to wear a helmet while riding your motorcycle in South Carolina unless you are under the age of twenty-one. Although the state does not require adult riders to wear helmets, wearing one is highly recommended. Notably, 64% of motorcyclist fatalities in 2021 were associated with those who were not wearing helmets.

Q: What Percentage of South Carolina Motorcycle Deaths Involved Alcohol?

A: In 2021, 40% of motorcycle deaths in South Carolina involved drivers who were under the influence of alcohol. This means that 40% of motorcycle rider fatalities involved riders who had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.01% or higher, and 32% were at or above the legal limit of 0.08%. 18% of riders had a BAC above the aggravated offense level of 0.15%.

Q: Are Motorcycle Deaths Increasing in South Carolina?

A: Motorcycle deaths are increasing in South Carolina. While fluctuations are happening from year to year, the overall trends have been going up since the early 2000s. In 2022 alone, South Carolina saw 170 deaths related to motorcycle crashes, alarming both citizens and policymakers alike. These statistics highlight the need for not only safer practices but also ensuring that those who share the road follow local and state traffic laws.

Q: How Does South Carolina Helmet Use Compare to National Helmet Use?

A: South Carolina is behind when it comes to national helmet use. Of motorcyclists who were killed in fatal crashes in 2021, only 36% of them were wearing helmets. On the other hand, the nationwide average is 61%. While individuals harmed in a motorcycle accident who were not wearing helmets are not disqualified from filing a personal injury claim, if they had a head-related injury, this could significantly influence the outcomes.

Q: Can I File a Lawsuit if I’m Injured in a Motorcycle Crash Caused by Another Driver?

A: Yes, you can file a lawsuit if you are injured in a motorcycle crash that was caused by another driver. If their negligent behavior or reckless driving contributed to your motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for damages like pain and suffering, lost income, and medical bills. A knowledgeable and caring personal injury attorney can help you understand more about your legal options.

South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Although driving a motorcycle in South Carolina offers coastal highways and scenic routes, the sheer number of fatalities paints a sobering picture that reflects the high rates of crashes in the state. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a motorcycle accident, it is advised to work with an experienced attorney from Deas Law Firm who can safeguard your rights and help you get the compensation you’re entitled to. Contact us today to get started.