![Highway filled with cars](https://www.joyelawfirm.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Columbia-SC-highway-e1577713092258.jpg)
Eric’s life changed in an instant while traveling on I-26. An 18-wheeler slammed into the back of his truck, leaving him with severe back and neck injuries. After months filled with pain, surgery and recovery, Eric faced the harsh reality that his injuries would prevent him from ever returning to his career.
Fearful for his family’s future, Eric turned to Joye Law Firm for help. Fortunately, Attorney Robert Howell took on his case. From there, Atty Howell advocated fiercely for Eric’s right to full compensation, eventually securing $1 million dollars for Eric to use to build a better future. Dive deeper into Eric’s remarkable story here.
Everyone in South Carolina knows that Interstate 26 (I-26) is one of the most dangerous stretches of highway in the state. I-26 has gained a grim reputation for its high rate of accidents that have left countless lives shattered.
If you’ve suffered an injury or lost a loved one in a car accident on I-26, the emotional and physical pain can leave you and your family struggling to cope. On top of the challenge of recovering from injuries, you’re dealing with medical expenses and a loss of income when you need it most.
During this difficult time, you are not alone. You deserve compassion, support, and fair compensation for your hardships.
The car accident lawyers at Joye Law Firm understand the perilous conditions of I-26 and the factors contributing to its alarming accident statistics. We can inform you of the steps you can take to protect your rights and seek the compensation you deserve if you or someone dear to you were in an accident on this notorious highway.
For specific advice and guidance regarding your case, contact one of our South Carolina car accident attorneys near you for a free consultation.
I-26 Accident Statistics
In the latest edition of the Traffic Collision Fact Book, the South Carolina Department of Public Safety reported the following accident statistics for I-26 in SC for 2021:
- 1,699 total collisions
- 342 total injury collisions
- 37 fatal collisions
In those accidents, 1,473 people suffered some type of injury, with 78 sustaining a serious injury. Additionally, 46 people died in traffic collisions along I-26 that year.
Contributing Factors to I-26 Accidents
Several factors contribute to the high number of accidents on I-26. One of the primary issues is the high traffic volume. The highway serves as a major artery for commuters, tourists, and commercial vehicles alike.
The heavy congestion, particularly during peak hours, increases the likelihood of collisions and makes it more challenging for drivers to navigate the road safely.
In addition to the traffic volume, poor road design and outdated infrastructure of I-26 around metropolitan areas have been cited as contributing factors to the high accident rate.
The highway features several sharp curves, which can be difficult for drivers to negotiate, especially at high speeds. Inadequate lighting and poor road maintenance, such as potholes and uneven pavement, further increase the risks faced by drivers on I-26.
Speeding, reckless driving, and distracted driving are also significant concerns on I-26. Drivers who fail to adhere to posted speed limits or engage in aggressive maneuvers, such as weaving between lanes or tailgating, greatly increase the chances of causing an accident.
Inclement weather conditions, such as heavy rain, fog, and occasional ice or snow, can make driving on I-26 even more hazardous. These conditions can reduce visibility, increase stopping distances, and make it more difficult for drivers to maintain control of their vehicles.