Local law enforcement agencies discuss distracted driving in the Lowcountry

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)–Distracted driving has become a leading cause of crashes in the country. According to the United States Automobile Association (USAA), it’s worse in South Carolina than in other states.

South Carolina has one of the country’s fastest-growing populations, which means more people on the roadways, many of whom are often distracted.

“With the significant influx of people that we’ve had moved to the area in the last five years, our infrastructure was not ready for the increase in people seeing many more collisions. People are driving too closely to one another. They are moving a little too fast, and they shouldn’t be,” said Deputy Kristen Davis with the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office.

In 2023, the USAA reported the distraction rate for drivers in the Palmetto State is 16.5%, which surpasses the national average of 12.1%

According to the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office, over 500 crashes have happened in their jurisdiction from distracted drivers, and the Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office says their numbers have tripled since last year. 

“We are outnumbered by the people who are driving poorly on these roadways but will get them eventually, and it’s not until everybody starts doing the right thing that changes will happen,” said Davis.

Law enforcement agencies remind you to stay alert while driving, always be aware of your surroundings, and, most importantly, keep your eyes on the road and off the phone.

“The distraction occurs while the vehicle is in motion. It’s common for people to be texting while they’re at a stop light; that’s one thing, but the distraction occurs. Dangers occur when the vehicle is in motion,” said Deputy Colt Arrington with the Charleston County Sheriff’s Office.