The Impact of Port of Charleston Traffic on Truck Accidents

As one of the busiest ports on the East Coast, the Port of Charleston plays a vital role in South Carolina’s economy. Every day, thousands of cargo trucks navigate Charleston’s highways, transporting goods to and from the port. However, this high volume of truck traffic also increases the risk of serious accidents, especially on major roadways like I-26, I-526, and U.S. Highway 17.

Why Choose Taylor Anderson Law Firm for Your Truck Accident Case?

If you have been injured in a truck accident, having a skilled and knowledgeable attorney on your side is crucial. Attorney Taylor Anderson has extensive experience representing injury victims in South Carolina and Georgia. His credentials include:

• Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of South Carolina School of Law
  
• Bar Admissions in South Carolina and Georgia
  
• Recognized by Super Lawyers as a Rising Star in Personal Injury Law
  
• Member of the American Association for Justice and South Carolina Association for Justice
  
• Proven track record of securing substantial settlements and verdicts for truck accident victims
  
• Experience handling complex truck accident cases, including those involving multiple liable parties and federal trucking regulations

With South Carolina ranking among the top states for fatal large truck crashes, having an experienced attorney like Taylor Anderson can help ensure you understand your legal options and fight for fair compensation.

Heavy Cargo Transport and Increased Accident Risks

The sheer number of trucks traveling to and from the Port of Charleston significantly raises the likelihood of accidents. Some of the main risk factors include:

• Congested Roadways – Charleston’s infrastructure struggles to keep up with the growing volume of port-related traffic, particularly during peak shipping hours.
• Overloaded Trucks – Cargo trucks often carry heavy and sometimes improperly secured loads, which can lead to rollover accidents or shifting cargo that causes loss of control.
• Fatigued Drivers – Truck drivers face long hours behind the wheel, and driver fatigue remains a leading cause of truck-related crashes.
• Tight Delivery Schedules – Pressure to meet shipping deadlines can result in reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding and unsafe lane changes.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), South Carolina saw over 5,000 large truck crashes in 2022, with Charleston County among the most affected regions. Additionally, a Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) study found that driver fatigue contributes to nearly 13% of all large truck crashes.

High-Risk Roads for Truck Accidents in Charleston

Several major roadways near the Port of Charleston see frequent truck accidents, including:

• Interstate 26 (I-26) – A key route for port-related trucking, I-26 experiences high traffic volume, frequent congestion, and accident-prone areas, particularly near the I-526 interchange.
• Interstate 526 (I-526) – This bypass highway connects the port to major distribution centers, but narrow lanes and merging traffic create dangerous conditions for trucks and smaller vehicles.
• U.S. Highway 17 – Known for heavy truck traffic and a mix of commercial and passenger vehicles, U.S. 17 has seen numerous fatal truck accidents over the years.

Common Types of Truck Accidents Near the Port

Due to the unique challenges of Charleston’s port-related truck traffic, the following types of truck accidents frequently occur:

• Jackknife Accidents – Sudden braking or slick road conditions can cause a truck’s trailer to swing out, blocking multiple lanes of traffic.
• Underride Collisions – Smaller vehicles can become trapped underneath large trucks, leading to catastrophic injuries.
• Rollover Accidents – Overloaded or improperly balanced cargo can cause trucks to overturn, especially on curved highway ramps and exits.
• Rear-End Collisions – Heavy traffic and sudden stops increase the risk of trucks colliding with slower-moving vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What should I do after a truck accident in Charleston?

• Seek medical attention immediately.
• Report the accident to law enforcement.
• Gather evidence, such as photos and witness statements.
• Contact an experienced truck accident attorney before speaking with insurance companies.

Q: How long do I have to file a truck accident claim in South Carolina?

A: In South Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years from the date of the accident.

Q: Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

A: Yes, South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can recover damages as long as you are less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Q: What types of compensation can I seek after a truck accident?

• Medical expenses (including future medical costs)
• Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering

Contact Taylor Anderson Law Firm Today

Navigating a truck accident claim can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with serious injuries and complex legal matters. Taylor Anderson Law Firm is committed to helping Charleston truck accident victims understand their legal rights and seek fair compensation. Call now for a consultation!

Posted on behalf of Taylor Anderson Law Firm