What Happened on the Ashley River Bridge
The Ashley River Bridge serves as a major connection between West Ashley and downtown Charleston along Highway 17. On the night of the collision, traffic was flowing toward downtown when the bicyclist was struck. The driver involved did not stop to provide aid or report the crash, leaving the victim behind.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the bicyclist succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Law enforcement closed the inbound lanes of the bridge for approximately three hours to allow investigators to document evidence, analyze the crash site, and begin reconstructing the incident. The roadway reopened around 10 p.m.
At the time of reporting, the identity of the bicyclist had not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin by the Charleston County Coroner’s Office.
Ongoing Investigation by Charleston Police
The Charleston Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team is leading the investigation into the fatal hit-and-run. This unit handles the most serious traffic collisions, including those involving fatalities and serious injuries.
Investigators are examining physical evidence, reviewing potential surveillance footage, and seeking witness statements from anyone who may have been traveling on the bridge around the time of the crash. Authorities have emphasized that even small details could help identify the vehicle or driver involved.
This incident marks the first fatal traffic-related collision investigated by Charleston police in 2026, setting a sobering tone for roadway safety concerns in the new year.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the Charleston Police Department’s Traffic Unit at (843) 965-4084. Tips may also be submitted anonymously through official online reporting channels.
Legal Consequences of Hit-and-Run in South Carolina
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious criminal offense in South Carolina, particularly when the collision results in injury or death. State law requires drivers involved in a crash to stop immediately, provide identifying information, and render reasonable assistance to anyone who may be injured.
When a hit-and-run leads to a fatality, the legal consequences are severe. The responsible party may face felony charges, which can carry significant prison time and substantial fines. Depending on the circumstances, penalties can include imprisonment ranging from one year to up to 35 years, along with fines between $10,000 and $25,000.
In addition to criminal penalties, a conviction can result in the suspension or permanent revocation of driving privileges. Courts may also consider aggravating factors such as impaired driving, excessive speed, or prior traffic offenses when determining sentencing.
Beyond criminal charges, hit-and-run cases often lead to civil claims filed by surviving family members seeking financial accountability for their loss.
Rights of Victims and Their Families
When a fatal hit-and-run occurs, surviving family members are left dealing with emotional trauma, financial uncertainty, and unanswered questions. Under South Carolina law, families may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver once identified.
These claims may seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, loss of companionship, and other damages tied to the sudden loss of a loved one. Even if the driver is not immediately located, families may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues.
Understanding these rights is an important step for families as they navigate the aftermath of a tragic and unexpected loss.
Bicycle Safety Concerns on the Ashley River Bridge
Safety concerns on the Ashley River Bridge are not new. The bridge consists of two separate spans for inbound and outbound traffic. While the outbound bridge includes a narrow sidewalk, the inbound bridge, where this fatal collision occurred, does not currently have a designated pedestrian or bicycle pathway.
Over the past decade, at least thirteen individuals have been injured or killed while walking or biking across the Ashley River Bridge. These incidents have fueled long-standing concerns among residents, safety advocates, and local officials regarding the lack of infrastructure for non-motorized road users.
Bridges present unique dangers due to limited space, higher vehicle speeds, and restricted visibility. For bicyclists, these factors significantly increase the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a collision.
Progress Toward Improved Infrastructure
In response to ongoing safety concerns, plans have been moving forward to improve pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure across the Ashley River. Federal funding has been allocated for the construction of a separate bridge dedicated entirely to bicycle and pedestrian traffic.
The Ashley River Bicycle and Pedestrian Bridge project officially broke ground in January 2025 and is expected to open in mid-2027. Recent updates indicate steady progress, including marsh work, boardwalk installation, pile driving, and concrete pouring.
City officials are currently awaiting final designs for the peninsula landing and are continuing work on connections on both sides of the river. The over-river portion and movable span are expected to be completed during the final stages of construction.
Once finished, the new bridge aims to provide a safer alternative for cyclists and pedestrians, reducing the need to share space with high-speed vehicle traffic.
Traffic Accident Trends in Charleston
Charleston County consistently reports a high number of traffic collisions each year. In 2021 alone, the county recorded more than 16,000 total crashes, including dozens of fatal collisions and hundreds involving serious injuries.
A significant portion of all traffic accidents in South Carolina occur within Charleston County, reflecting both population density and heavy traffic flow through major corridors such as Highway 17.
Statewide data further highlights the seriousness of the issue. South Carolina ranks among the highest states for traffic fatalities, both in total numbers and per capita rates. Common contributing factors include speeding, alcohol impairment, and failure to follow basic traffic safety rules.
These statistics underscore the importance of responsible driving behavior, particularly in areas where vulnerable road users such as bicyclists and pedestrians are present.
The Importance of Accountability After a Crash
Hit-and-run incidents cause harm far beyond the immediate physical injuries. Fleeing the scene delays emergency care, obstructs investigations, and denies families the answers they deserve. Accountability is a critical part of justice, not only for the victim but also for the broader community.
Law enforcement relies heavily on public cooperation in hit-and-run cases. Witnesses, dash cameras, and surveillance footage often play a vital role in identifying responsible drivers and ensuring they are held accountable under the law.
Every driver shares a responsibility to remain at the scene of a crash and follow legal obligations, regardless of fear, panic, or potential consequences.
About Ted Law Firm
At Ted Law Firm, is committed to standing with individuals and families affected by serious accidents across South Carolina. We serve families across Aiken, Anderson, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta and Orangeburg. The firm understands the emotional and legal challenges that follow tragic events like fatal hit-and-run collisions and works to guide clients through difficult moments with clarity and care. Contact us today for a free consultation.
