South Carolina Crash Highlights the Danger of Getting Out of Your Vehicle

After a collision in South Carolina, your first instinct may be to get out of your vehicle. Sometimes, it is worth listening to this instinct – especially if your vehicle is on fire or sinking into a body of water. In other cases, however, exiting your vehicle could prove extremely dangerous. The extent of these hazards was made clear after a recent crash in South Carolina, which injured three people who exited their vehicles.

Two People Injured After Exiting Their Vehicles 

In December of 2024, it was reported that two people had been injured in Cayce after exiting their vehicles on the road. The incident began when the two individuals crashed into each other on Charleston Highway. After the collision, both drivers got out – presumably to inspect the damage or exchange information.

However, a third vehicle approached and struck both of these drivers. Both were injured by the collision, and information regarding the crash was initially scarce. However, The State later published a follow-up report that one of the victims had died. This deceased woman was 91 years old. The second victim was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, while the driver of the third vehicle was uninjured and remained on the scene.

Should You Get Out of Your Vehicle After a Crash in South Carolina? 

Many safety advocates say that it’s often best to remain in your vehicle after a serious collision. Even if your vehicle is wrecked, it will likely still offer significant protection against impacts. If you exit, you will be completely vulnerable to fast-moving traffic. If at all possible, try to pull your vehicle over to the side of the road, as a rear-end collision could still be catastrophic.

If your vehicle is completely immobilized in the middle of the road, consider activating your hazard lights. If you believe that it’s best to exit, choose the door closest to the side of the road. Once you’re out, proceed directly to the side of the road and get as far from moving traffic as possible. If your injuries prevent you from moving quickly, it may be best to remain inside your vehicle until first responders arrive.

Is Exiting My Vehicle a Form of Negligence? 

If you attempt to file a lawsuit after being struck by a moving vehicle, defendants and insurers may attempt to argue that you are responsible for your own injuries. They may claim that you should have never walked into the road, and that this constitutes a form of “negligence.” If you face this argument, contact an experienced personal injury attorney immediately. A legal professional can help you prove that you did nothing wrong.

Can a South Carolina Accident Lawyer Help Me? 

If you were injured after exiting your vehicle, a Charleston car accident attorney may be able to help. Although it may make sense to stay in your vehicle after a collision, other drivers must also exercise caution when approaching crash sites. Even if you feel as though you caused your own injuries by getting out of your vehicle, you may still be able to pursue compensation. To learn more about your legal options, contact Mickelsen & Dalton, LLC today.

Sources: 

wltx.com/article/news/local/multiple-people-cayce-vehicle-accident/101-5300a6e8-0cc5-4b5b-a764-54050f630435

wltx.com/article/news/local/woman-killed-crash-charleston-highway-cayce/101-05e9a870-fc4f-4c80-991c-3ce675c33c29