I-95 Dubbed South Carolina’s Deadliest Highway in Recent Analysis

Interstate 95, a critical north-south artery traversing South Carolina, has once again been identified as the most dangerous highway in the state, according to recent analyses by various traffic safety and insurance comparison organizations. These findings consistently point to I-95 as the roadway with the highest average number of traffic fatalities within South Carolina.

Recent research, including a study by Car Insurance Comparison, highlighted I-95 for its alarming average of approximately 30 fatalities per year on its South Carolina stretch. While this figure is lower than some sections of I-95 in other states with heavier traffic, the consistent number of deaths solidifies its reputation within the Palmetto State.

The nearly 200-mile segment of I-95 that runs through South Carolina connects the state to major hubs along the East Coast, handling a constant flow of long-haul freight, tourists, and local commuters. This heavy and diverse traffic, coupled with several other factors, contributes to its hazardous nature:

• High Speeds: The highway’s long, relatively straight stretches often encourage drivers to exceed speed limits, increasing the severity of collisions.
• Heavy Congestion: Despite its length, I-95 experiences significant congestion, particularly around major interchanges and during peak travel periods like holidays and summer vacations.
• Driver Fatigue: As a major corridor for long-distance travel, driver fatigue is a significant concern, leading to single-vehicle accidents and other incidents.
• Construction Zones: Ongoing widening and improvement projects introduce temporary lane shifts, uneven pavement, and reduced visibility, creating additional hazards that are expected to continue through 2030.
• Out-of-State Drivers: A high volume of drivers unfamiliar with local conditions and traffic patterns also contributes to unpredictable situations.
• Aging Infrastructure: While improvements are underway, some sections still grapple with issues like outdated signage or narrow shoulders.

Specific areas along I-95 in South Carolina that frequently see higher accident rates include the interchange with I-26 near St. George, the stretch between Florence and Dillon, and sections near busy rest areas and truck stops.

Authorities consistently urge drivers to exercise extreme caution when traveling on I-95. Recommendations include maintaining a safe following distance, especially around commercial trucks, taking regular breaks to combat fatigue, checking weather conditions, eliminating distractions like mobile phones, and significantly reducing speed in construction zones.

While I-95 remains an indispensable part of South Carolina’s transportation network, its designation as the state’s most dangerous road serves as a reminder of the heightened risks drivers face and the ongoing need for vigilance and safe driving practices.