A tragic multi-vehicle crash on Nexton Parkway in Berkeley County claimed one life and left another person seriously injured early Friday morning, an incident that a car accident lawyer may later examine given the involvement of a police pursuit, multiple vehicles, and severe injuries. The collision occurred following a police pursuit and has raised serious concerns about roadway safety, high-speed chases, and the devastating impact such incidents can have on innocent drivers.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the crash happened at approximately 5:20 a.m. near the intersection of Nexton Parkway and Grand Boulevard. The early morning collision involved three vehicles and resulted in fatal injuries for one driver and life-threatening injuries for another.
Details of the Beaufort County Sledding Incident
According to investigators, the crash happened at approximately 8 p.m. near Broad River Drive, close to Shell Point Road. A 2022 Ram pickup truck traveling east struck two pedestrians who were in the roadway at the time of the collision.
Authorities later identified the pedestrians as two women who had been sledding earlier that evening. A witness described them as a mother and daughter who were being pulled on a makeshift sled using a plastic container lid. After the vehicle towing them turned around, the women were left in the roadway moments before the pickup truck approached.
The driver did not remain at the scene following the impact.
Witness Account Describes Moments After the Crash
A nearby resident reported hearing the collision and immediately going outside to help. She described finding the two women injured and exposed to freezing conditions.
According to the witness, both women had lost their shoes during the impact and were lying on ice-covered ground. The witness attempted to keep them warm by wrapping their hands and feet while waiting for emergency medical services to arrive.
She also stated that the driver briefly stopped after the crash but then reversed the vehicle and left the area instead of providing assistance or contacting authorities.
Injuries and Emergency Response
Emergency crews transported both women to a local hospital for treatment. Officials have not released details about the severity of their injuries or their current medical condition.
When a pedestrian collision involves significant injuries, it often results in long-term physical, emotional, and financial consequences. Hospitalization, follow-up care, and rehabilitation can extend for months or longer, depending on the nature of the injuries involved.
Driver Located and Criminal Charges Filed
Law enforcement later located both the pickup truck and the driver near the crash site. The driver was identified as Richard Quinn Davidson, a 46-year-old Beaufort resident.
Troopers arrested Davidson early Sunday morning. He now faces the following charges:
- Two counts of felony driving under the influence resulting in great bodily injury
- Two counts of hit and run involving great bodily injury
Davidson was booked into the Beaufort County Detention Center around 1:55 a.m. Sunday and released later that afternoon, according to jail records.
Ongoing Investigation by Highway Patrol
The crash remains under investigation by the South Carolina Highway Patrol. Investigators will likely examine several factors, including:
- Whether alcohol impairment contributed to the collision
- Vehicle speed and braking activity
- Lighting and visibility conditions at the time of the crash
- Statements from witnesses and first responders
- Physical evidence from the roadway and vehicle
In hit and run cases, investigators often rely heavily on witness testimony, surveillance footage, and forensic evidence to reconstruct the sequence of events.
Legal Implications of DUI and Hit and Run Crashes
Crashes involving impaired driving and leaving the scene carry severe legal consequences in South Carolina, particularly when serious injuries are involved.
Felony DUI charges may apply when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence and causes great bodily injury to another person. Penalties can include lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, and long-term license suspension.
Hit and run charges further compound the seriousness of the case. Drivers involved in crashes that result in injury are legally required to stop, provide assistance, and notify law enforcement. Failing to do so can lead to additional felony charges, even if the initial collision was unintentional.
Pedestrian Safety Concerns in Residential Areas
This incident highlights the dangers pedestrians face in residential neighborhoods, especially during unusual conditions such as winter weather. Reduced visibility, icy roads, and unexpected pedestrian activity can increase the risk of serious crashes.
Drivers are expected to operate vehicles with heightened caution in residential areas, particularly at night. Impaired driving significantly reduces reaction time and judgment, making it far more difficult to avoid pedestrians in the roadway.
Pedestrians are also vulnerable to severe injuries due to the lack of physical protection when struck by a vehicle, even at relatively low speeds.
Community Impact of Serious Traffic Collisions
Crashes like this often have a ripple effect beyond those directly involved. Witnesses, family members, and neighbors may experience emotional distress after seeing or learning about such incidents.
Community members frequently raise concerns about roadway safety, impaired driving enforcement, and the need for increased awareness following serious crashes. Investigations and court proceedings can take months to resolve, prolonging uncertainty for everyone affected.
What Happens Next in the Case
As the investigation continues, additional details may emerge regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash. Prosecutors will review evidence gathered by law enforcement to determine how the case proceeds through the criminal justice system.
Court appearances, bond conditions, and potential plea negotiations may follow. The outcome will depend on the findings of investigators and the legal process ahead.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, represents individuals and families affected by serious accidents across South Carolina. The firm focuses on accountability, clear communication, and guiding clients through difficult legal situations with care and professionalism. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. When unexpected accidents cause life-altering injuries, having the right legal guidance can make a meaningful difference in understanding options and protecting rights. Contact us today for a free consultation.
