South Carolina has been named one of the worst states for road safety in a GJEL Accident Attorney report. According to news reports, South Carolina ranks third in the top five worst states for road safety.
According to the report, South Carolina ranks high because:
“First-time DUI offenders are not required to install ignition interlock devices. Permits are issued age fifteen; one year later, teens are eligible for unrestricted licenses. Motorcyclists under age twenty must wear helmets, but bicyclists may ride bare-headed at any age. Forty-four percent of auto accident deaths are related to DUI.”
South Dakota topped the listed for its repeat DUI offenders and driver permits for 14-year-olds. Montana ranked second and Pennsylvania and Idaho ranked fourth and fifth.
“All five worst road safety states permit cell phone use and text messaging while operating a motor vehicle, although a “distraction in/on vehicle” in Idaho lists some common driver distractions. Four of the five states listed do not suspend driver’s licenses after the driver’s first DUI conviction. Idaho suspends first-time offenders’ driving privileges for 90 days.”
GJEL ranked the states in recognition of April 2011 Distracted Driving Awareness Month, according to news reports. They hope by calling out states with too lenient safety laws will bring awareness to the issue.
As a Charleston personal injury lawyer , I’m saddened to hear about South Carolina ranking high for the worst road safety. I hope the state can make some improvements to increase safety.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, contact a car accident lawyer in Charleston.