Dangerous road conditions lingered across parts of the Upstate following a winter ice storm, leading to a frightening incident on Interstate 85 in Greenville, South Carolina, a type of roadway hazard that a car accident lawyer may later examine when falling debris causes sudden danger to unsuspecting drivers. A woman driving with her family experienced a terrifying moment when a large piece of ice flew off a truck and slammed into her windshield.The incident occurred Tuesday as Lana Love was traveling southbound on I-85 shortly after entering from Pelham Road. Love was accompanied by her mother and her seven-year-old daughter when the ice struck the vehicle without warning.
Family Outing Turns Frightening on I-85
According to Love, the family had left their home to pick up medication from a nearby Publix store. Shortly after merging onto I-85 southbound, she noticed ice lifting from the roof of a truck traveling several vehicles ahead of her.Despite the truck being approximately five cars in front of her, the ice became airborne and flew directly toward Love’s vehicle. With little time to react, she was unable to avoid the impact.
Brick of Ice Shatters Windshield
The ice struck the passenger side of the windshield, causing it to shatter. Inside the vehicle, panic followed immediately.Love said her mother screamed as the windshield shattered, while her seven-year-old daughter hid under blankets and began crying. The sudden impact and broken glass created a chaotic and frightening situation inside the car.Love stated that she saw the ice flying toward her and knew there was no way to escape it in time.
Driver Warns Others of Icy Road Conditions
Following the incident, Love shared her experience on social media to warn other drivers of the dangers still present on Upstate roads.
“Please be careful,” she wrote. “It’s still icy in some parts, and people are flying.”
Her message highlighted the continued risks posed by winter weather debris, even after storms have passed and roads appear mostly clear.
Ice on Vehicles Creates Serious Road Hazards
Large chunks of ice or snow that remain on the roofs of vehicles can become deadly projectiles once a vehicle reaches highway speeds. When dislodged, these ice blocks can strike other vehicles with significant force, leading to serious damage or injury.High-speed roadways like I-85 increase the danger, as ice can travel farther and with greater impact before hitting another vehicle.
South Carolina Law Addresses Ice and Snow Hazards
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, it is illegal to drive with snow or ice on a vehicle if it obstructs the driver’s view or poses a hazard to others on the road.Drivers are expected to clear snow and ice from their vehicles before traveling, particularly from roofs, hoods, and windshields. Failure to do so can place other motorists at serious risk.
Safety Glass Requirements for Motor Vehicles
South Carolina law also requires motor vehicles to be equipped with approved safety glass in doors, windows, and windshields. These requirements apply to all passenger-type motor vehicles, including passenger buses and school buses.For trucks, including truck tractors, safety glass requirements apply to all glass used in doors, windows, and windshields within the driver’s compartment. These regulations are intended to reduce injury when glass is broken during a collision or impact.
DMV Authority Over Vehicle Safety Compliance
Under state law, the Department of Motor Vehicles is not permitted to register any motor vehicle that does not meet safety glass requirements. Additionally, the department has the authority to suspend registration if a vehicle is later found to be noncompliant.These laws are designed to protect both vehicle occupants and others on the road from unnecessary harm caused by unsafe vehicle conditions.
Winter Storm Aftermath Continues to Affect Drivers
Although the winter ice storm occurred days earlier, the incident shows how lingering conditions can remain hazardous. Ice may refreeze overnight, loosen during warmer daytime temperatures, and later detach when vehicles reach highway speeds.Authorities often urge drivers to remain cautious even after storms have passed, as hazards may not always be visible at first glance.
Emotional Impact on Families Involved
Beyond physical damage, incidents like this can leave lasting emotional effects, especially when children are involved. Sudden crashes, shattered glass, and loud impacts can be traumatic experiences for passengers of all ages.Love’s account highlights how quickly an ordinary errand can turn into a frightening ordeal due to unsafe road conditions and unsecured vehicle debris.
Ongoing Reminder for Driver Responsibility
Officials consistently remind drivers of their responsibility to ensure their vehicles are safe before entering roadways. Clearing snow and ice is not only a matter of personal safety but also a legal and ethical obligation to others sharing the road.Incidents involving falling ice underscore the importance of caution during winter weather and its aftermath.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, stands with individuals and families affected by unexpected roadway incidents across South Carolina and beyond. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. The firm believes in accountability, clear communication, and protecting the rights of those harmed by dangerous driving conditions. Contact us today for a free consultation.
