Highway 170 Car Accidents: What You Need to Know About Risks, Causes, and Legal Options
We are McDougall Law Firm, LLC, based in Beaufort, South Carolina, and proud to serve the Port Royal and Lowcountry communities. For over fifteen years, we’ve been dedicated to helping people who have suffered serious injuries or lost loved ones in tragic accidents. Our experienced team focuses on personal injury cases, including car crashes, wrongful death, trucking accidents, and slip and falls. We offer a stress-free legal experience by guiding our clients through every step of the process with compassion, clarity, and aggressive advocacy.
Highway 170 car accidents are a growing concern for drivers in Beaufort County and Port Royal, where heavy traffic, dangerous intersections, and driver negligence create daily hazards. This busy stretch of road sees frequent collisions, including deadly crashes that leave lasting impacts on victims and their families.
In this blog, we will break down the dangers of Highway 170, common causes of crashes, and what to do if you are involved in one, as well as explain why working with an experienced Port Royal traffic accident lawyer is essential for protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve.
Understanding Highway 170 and Accident Risks
Highway 170 is a major route running through Beaufort County and Port Royal, connecting drivers to neighborhoods, businesses, and other highways. If you travel this stretch, you know it carries heavy city traffic, especially during peak hours. The highway’s west and eastbound lanes see congestion, and intersections like Callawassie Drive are known hot spots for crashes. At these intersections, merging vehicles and sudden stops often lead to collisions. Our firm has seen many serious accidents happen right where traffic patterns shift near businesses and neighborhoods.
Key Routes and Intersections
Highway 170 cuts through the heart of Beaufort County, linking Port Royal to areas west and east of the city. Major intersections, including Callawassie Drive, pose particular risks because of frequent turning vehicles and changing traffic signals. During rush hours, traffic backs up, and impatient drivers sometimes speed or make risky maneuvers. The combination of local and through traffic increases the chance of crashes, especially where visibility is limited or where traffic merges quickly.
Common Causes of Highway 170 Car Accidents
Most highway 170 car accidents stem from a few common behaviors. Speeding and aggressive driving are frequent problems, especially as drivers try to beat the traffic lights or pass slower vehicles. Distracted driving, such as texting or using apps while behind the wheel, is another major cause. We also see many crashes caused by drivers failing to yield at intersections or during lane changes. Hazardous road conditions, like wet pavement or poor lighting, make these risks worse, especially at night or during storms.
Crash Statistics and Local Trends
Recent data from the South Carolina Highway Patrol and local authorities show that Highway 170 is one of the most accident-prone roads in Beaufort County. Deadly crashes often happen near busy intersections or during times of heavy traffic. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has responded to several fatal crashes where victims were pronounced dead at the scene. Patterns show that crashes spike during morning and evening rush hours, and bad weather increases the risk. These accidents affect not just the people involved, but the entire Port Royal community, leading to traffic delays, loss, and long-term emotional impact.
At The McDougall Law Firm, LLC, we understand how a crash on Highway 170 can change lives in an instant. If you or a loved one has been affected, our team is here to help you understand your legal options and guide you through the next steps.
Notable Crash Scenarios and Local Impact
Highway 170 in Beaufort County has seen several deadly crashes that have left a lasting impact on the community
Recent and High-Profile Crashes
One notable incident happened near Callawassie Drive. In that case, three passengers suffered injuries and needed immediate medical care. The South Carolina Highway Patrol responded to the scene, closing the highway to manage traffic and begin their investigation. Sadly, some victims were pronounced dead at the scene by the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office. These events highlight how quickly lives can change on this stretch of highway and why safety and accountability are so important.
Other crash scenarios often involve single-vehicle accidents, where a driver may lose control due to speed, distraction, or weather. Sometimes, passengers are the most severely injured. In multi-vehicle crashes, the situation becomes even more complicated, with several drivers and passengers affected. Each crash brings its own challenges, but the pain and confusion for victims and their families remain the same.
Emergency Response and Investigation
When a serious crash happens on Highway 170, the South Carolina Highway Patrol is usually the first to arrive. Their main job is to secure the scene, direct traffic, and begin the initial investigation. They collect information from drivers, passengers, and witnesses to understand what happened. If the crash is deadly, the Beaufort County Coroner’s Office steps in to confirm when victims are pronounced dead and to notify families.
Local authorities also work to determine the cause of the crash. This can involve checking the vehicles for defects, looking at road conditions, and reviewing any available camera footage or app data. Their goal is to find out exactly how the crash happened and who may be at fault. This information is crucial for both criminal and civil proceedings.
The Investigation Process
After the scene is secure, investigators start a detailed analysis. They inspect each vehicle for damage, collect debris, and take photographs. Witness statements are gathered to piece together the sequence of events. Sometimes, accident reconstruction experts are called in to create a clear picture of how the crash unfolded.
All this investigation content becomes part of the official record. These reports are used by insurance companies and attorneys to help victims and families seek compensation. At The McDougall Law Firm, LLC, we rely on this evidence to support your legal claim, whether you are a driver, passenger, or a family member of someone who died in the crash. Our team works closely with local authorities to ensure that no detail is missed and that your rights are protected throughout the investigation process.
Legal Options for Crash Victims and Families
When a serious crash happens on Highway 170, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. At The McDougall Law Firm, LLC, we understand the confusion and pain that follows a deadly crash or a major accident in Beaufort County. Our goal is to help you understand your legal options and guide you through each step toward recovery.
Immediate Steps After a Crash
If you are involved in a crash, your first priority should be safety. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 right away. Emergency responders, including the South Carolina Highway Patrol, will arrive to secure the scene and provide help. If you are able, document the scene by taking photos of the vehicles, injuries, and the intersection or road where the crash happened. Collect names and contact information from witnesses and all passengers involved. Even if you feel fine, seek medical attention for yourself and any passengers. Some injuries are not obvious right away.
Reporting and Documentation Requirements
South Carolina law requires that you report most car accidents to law enforcement, especially those involving injuries, death, or significant vehicle damage. The South Carolina Highway Patrol or local police will file a crash report. This official report is important for your insurance claim and any future legal action. Keep copies of all documents, including medical records and receipts for expenses related to the crash.
Types of Damages and Compensation Available
Victims of Highway 170 car accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation. This includes payment for medical expenses such as hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing care. If you are unable to work because of your injuries, you can seek compensation for lost wages and any loss of future earning capacity. Pain and suffering damages cover the physical and emotional impact of the crash. If a loved one was pronounced dead at the scene, families may have a wrongful death claim, which can help cover funeral costs and loss of companionship.
Filing Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Claims in South Carolina
To begin a personal injury or wrongful death claim, you must file within the time limits set by South Carolina law. This usually means acting within three years of the crash. You will need evidence from the investigation, including the crash report, witness statements, and medical records. South Carolina uses a comparative negligence system, which means your compensation may be reduced if you were partially at fault for the crash. Special rules may apply if there were three passengers or more vehicles involved, so it is important to have legal guidance.
At The McDougall Law Firm, LLC, we help crash victims and families in Beaufort County understand their rights and pursue the compensation they deserve. If you have questions about your case or need help after a Highway 170 accident, contact us for compassionate, professional support.
Contact an Experienced Port Royal Traffic Accident Attorney Today!
If you or someone you love has been involved in a serious crash on Highway 170, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. The aftermath of an accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Our team at The McDougall Law Firm is here to stand by your side, offering compassionate support and experienced legal representation every step of the way.
Contact us at 843-438-4386 for a free case consultation today!
