South Carolina recorded 1,094 fatal accidents in 2022, 45% of them multi-vehicle crashes, and in 40% of fatal accidents, alcohol was a factor. Charleston County is in the top 5 counties in SC for accidents, with 20% of people living there having had at least one accident.
Driving in Charleston comes with its own unique set of challenges. As a historic city with narrow, winding streets originally built for horses and carriages, navigating a car through the streets of Charleston requires extra caution and defensive driving skills.
Follow these 5 tips to help avoid a car accident while driving in Charleston:
Pay Attention to Traffic Laws and Signals
Some roads in Charleston are more dangerous than others. Highway 17/Savannah Highway, Rivers Avenue, and Dorchester Road are all well-known accident blackspots. The intersection at Dorchester Road and Ashley Phosphate Road is a particular concern for drivers.
With tourists and locals mingling on the streets, it’s important to obey all traffic signals and signs in Charleston. Come to complete stops at stop signs and red lights before proceeding – 750 people die each year because of red-light running. Be alert for pedestrian walk signals at crosswalks and yield to pedestrians in crosswalks. Charleston has lower speed limits than highways—usually 25-35 mph on city streets. Stick to the speed limit, as speeding increases the risk of accidents. Also, keep an eye out for bicyclists who share the roads and have the same rights as motor vehicles in most cases. Follow all traffic laws to avoid confusion and collisions.
Talk to a car accident attorney if a speeding driver caused an accident and left you with injuries.
Scan for Hazards and Distractions
Charleston’s dense streets are filled with potential hazards for motorists. Scan ahead for vehicles stopping suddenly, doors opening from parked cars, jaywalking pedestrians, debris in the road, and uneven pavement. Distracted driving is also a major hazard, as pedestrians and cyclists can dart into the road unexpectedly. Avoid distractions in your own vehicle by putting phones away, programming navigation before driving, and refraining from eating while behind the wheel. Stay alert to reduce your reaction time to potential hazards.
Watch for Blind Spots and Intersections
The narrow streets and tucked-away intersections in Charleston have ample blind spots. Be vigilant when making turns or changing lanes by visually clearing blind spots and using turn signals. Approach intersections cautiously, scanning for crossing pedestrians or bicycles you may not see right away due to buildings or vegetation. Familiarize yourself with tricky intersections ahead of time if possible. Drive defensively around blind corners or intersections by slowing down and covering your brake pedal in case you need to stop suddenly.
Leave Extra Space Between Vehicles
Allow extra following distance between your vehicle and others when driving in Charleston. With vehicles stopping short for pedestrians, parallel parking maneuvers, and delivery trucks blocking lanes, you’ll want added space for braking. Avoid tailgating, which increases the chain-reaction effect of rear-end collisions. Leaving ample space around your vehicle gives you time to react and brake gradually rather than slamming on the brakes if traffic stops suddenly.
Practice Defensive Driving
Make defensive driving your priority through Charleston’s congested streets. With heightened attention and defensive driving habits, you can enjoy exploring Charleston by car while minimizing accident risks.