FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

August 19, 2002

CONTACT: SID GAULDEN, 803-896-8755

 

FATALITY REPORT: DPS REPORTS 12 KILLED 

ON SOUTH CAROLINA HIGHWAYS AUGUST 16 - 18

 

COLUMBIA -- The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announces a preliminary number of 12 people killed on South Carolina highways from Friday, August 16, at 6 p.m. until Sunday, August 18, at midnight.

 

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating a probable hit and run death in Horry County. An unknown vehicle struck a Little River man as he crossed US 17. A 16-year-old Ridgeville youth, who was not wearing a seat belt, died as a result of a one-vehicle collision early Sunday in Dorchester County. The driver of the vehicle has been charged with Felony Driving Under the Influence and Driving Under Suspension. And a 23-month-old child died when the motor-less go-cart she was riding in ran into the roadway in Pickens County.

 

As of August 18, 645 people had died on South Carolina highways, compared to 665 last year at this time. Of the 517 motor vehicle occupants who have died so far this year, 373 were not wearing seat belts.

 

Interstates

1

US routes, SC routes and secondary roads

11

Seat belt used

3

Seat belt not used

5

Seat belt usage not applicable

4 (1 motorcyclist; 1 pedestrian; 1 go-cart rider; 1 person riding in rear of a pick-up truck)

The South Carolina Department of Public Safety includes the Criminal Justice Academy, Division of Motor Vehicles, Highway Patrol, Office of Highway Safety, State Transport Police, Bureau of Protective Services and Office of Justice Programs. DPS has more than 2,600 employees in offices statewide. Our mission is to ensure public safety by protecting and serving the people of South Carolina and its visitors.

 

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SG/106/2002

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