In a deeply concerning event, a patrol car was struck by a suspected drunk driver during a Berkeley County DUI traffic stop. This incident, involving the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, brings renewed attention to the ongoing dangers of Impaired driving on South Carolina roads. The crash occurred in Moncks Corner, near Wildwood Lane. It happened during what appeared to be a routine traffic stop by Berkeley County deputies.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the patrol vehicle was legally parked behind a pulled-over car. Another vehicle, operated by Lauren Michelle Skinner, allegedly under the influence, plowed into it. The South Carolina Highway Patrol also responded to the crash. This raises serious questions about Driving Under the Influence, Driving Under Suspension, and how frequently such incidents occur in Berkeley County.
What Happened on Wildwood Lane?
The crash took place on Wildwood Lane in Moncks Corner, a quiet stretch of road that suddenly became the center of a high-risk DUI collision. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the patrol vehicle had its emergency lights activated. The suspect, Lauren Michelle Skinner, reportedly failed to slow down. She crashed directly into the rear of the patrol car.
She now faces charges including Driving Under the Influence, Driving Under Suspension, and possibly reckless driving. Law enforcement officials said the equipment in the patrol vehicle, including an equipment cart, was damaged in the impact. Thankfully, the Berkeley County deputies were outside the vehicle. They were not seriously injured.
Danger to Law Enforcement During Traffic Stops
This isn’t the first time a law enforcement officer has faced danger during a traffic stop. The Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office has repeatedly highlighted the risks their officers face while parked on road shoulders. When a patrol car is hit during a stop, it often results in serious injury or worse.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol and local officials continue to stress that Impaired driving not only endangers civilians but also those tasked with protecting them. The officers involved in this incident were lucky to escape with minor injuries.
A Recurring Problem in Berkeley County
The reality is that Berkeley County continues to face challenges with Impaired driving, especially in areas like Moncks Corner. This is particularly concerning near school zones, such as an elementary gym within the vicinity. The crash location was not far from the Broken Seal bar, a known nightlife spot in the area.
Increased patrols and DUI checkpoints have been announced by the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office, especially after similar incidents along Charleston County roads. Local advocacy groups like the Emanuel 9 Memorial Foundation have called for stronger education and enforcement of DUI laws.
Legal Implications of DUI Crashes
When someone is injured or property is damaged in a DUI crash involving a patrol vehicle, the legal consequences can be serious. In South Carolina:
- A Driving Under the Influence charge can lead to license suspension, jail time, and fines.
- Driving Under Suspension adds another layer of criminal liability.
- Injuring a public official or damaging a patrol car can lead to felony charges.
Victims of such crashes may also have grounds for civil lawsuits, especially if a governmental entity like the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office is involved.
Impact on Public and Officer Safety
The effect of this crash extends beyond damaged vehicles. It affects public trust in safety enforcement and highlights deficiencies in public education around Impaired driving.
Officers in Berkeley County, Charleston County, and beyond face an uphill battle enforcing DUI laws. Drivers continue to ignore warnings. Incidents like this one reinforce the urgent need for public campaigns, updated patrol equipment like equipment carts, and more visibility for parked cruisers.
Who is Lauren Michelle Skinner?
While full details about Lauren Michelle Skinner have not been made public, she now becomes another name in the growing list of individuals charged with Driving Under the Influence in South Carolina. Police reports suggest she may also have prior offenses, including Driving Under Suspension.
Whether intoxicated from alcohol or other substances, her alleged actions placed the lives of Berkeley County deputies, other drivers, and herself at extreme risk.
Civil Action for DUI Victims
Whether you are a law enforcement officer or a civilian, if you were injured in a DUI crash in Berkeley County or Charleston County, you may be entitled to compensation. Claims can be made for:;
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Vehicle repair or replacement
- Emotional trauma
- Pain and suffering
In this incident, the Sheriff’s Office may also file separate claims for damage to county property, such as the patrol vehicle and the equipment cart inside.
What to Do After a Crash Involving Impaired Driving
If you are involved in a DUI crash during a traffic stop, or as a bystander, follow these steps:
- Report the crash to 911 immediately.
- Request medical attention,even for minor injuries.
- Capture images of the crash site, including the patrol car, other vehicles, and surroundings like Wildwood Lane or Broken Seal.
- Gather witness statements, if possible.
- Contact a personal injury attorney with experience in Berkeley County DUI traffic stop cases.
Community Reactions and Safety Initiatives
Community members from Moncks Corner, Charleston County, and surrounding regions have expressed outrage over the incident. Memorials from local groups, such as the Emanuel 9 Memorial Foundation, stress the need for legislative and behavioral change. These efforts aim to prevent further tragedies.
Additionally, schools in the area, like those with attached elementary gyms, have increased student safety training. The crash has become a teachable moment about road safety, especially when law enforcement is involved.
The Bigger Picture: Why These Crashes Keep Happening
- Lack of alternate transportation in areas like Berkeley County
- Easy access to alcohol near locations such as Broken Seal
- Drivers with prior offenses like Driving Under Suspension continuing to drive
- Weak community-based deterrents
As the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office and South Carolina Highway Patrol continue to issue warnings, the community must also do its part. Encouraging responsible behavior behind the wheel is critical.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, we help victims of DUI crashes like the one in Berkeley County. We proudly serve injury victims in Aiken, Anderson, Columbia, Greenville, North Augusta and Orangeburg. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s actions, our experienced attorneys can help. We are here to assist you in seeking justice and recovering the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation. We understand that after a traumatic event, especially one involving Impaired driving, you need legal support, clarity, and real results. That’s why we fight for your rights, while you focus on recovery.
Attorney Ted Sink, founder of The Ted Law Firm, is a Yale, Stanford Business School, and Charleston School of Law graduate and former marketing executive who built a 7-figure law practice, earning millions for his clients. With experience in both law and advertising, Ted has been recognized in Forbes, Entrepreneur, and the ABA Journal. He speaks at industry conferences on marketing and law firm management, sharing insights from his unique background to help other firms grow. When not working, Ted enjoys traveling, diving, and dog-sitting golden retrievers.
