Pedestrian crashes create some of the most devastating outcomes on South Carolina roads. The recent tragic incident involving a 74-year-old Mount Pleasant resident has renewed community concerns about roadway safety, the vulnerability of pedestrians, and the legal challenges families face after a sudden loss. Challenges that an experienced personal injury lawyer can help families navigate after a fatal pedestrian collision.
According to information released by Charleston County officials, Robert Leventhal, a 74-year-old resident of Mount Pleasant, died on December 6 at the Medical University of South Carolina. His death resulted from injuries sustained in a pedestrian and vehicle collision that occurred the evening before, on December 5, at approximately 7:06 p.m. The crash took place along the 700 block of Maybank Highway, an area known for regular traffic flow and limited pedestrian accommodation during nighttime hours.
The Charleston County Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into how the incident occurred and whether additional contributing factors may exist. A stretch of Maybank Highway was closed for more than two hours as authorities documented the scene, redirected traffic, and began examining the circumstances surrounding the crash.
This incident, while tragic on its own, also highlights an increasing concern across the Lowcountry: the growing number of pedestrian injuries and fatalities. For families left behind, the path forward can feel overwhelming. The process includes medical bills, unanswered questions, insurance complexities, and uncertainty about legal rights.
Understanding Pedestrian Risks on South Carolina Roads
Pedestrian safety continues to be a major concern across South Carolina. Several factors contribute to the growing number of collisions involving people walking along or crossing busy streets. Although the investigation in this case is ongoing and no official cause has been confirmed, incidents like this often share common risk patterns.
1. Limited visibility at night
Even in well-traveled areas like Maybank Highway, nighttime visibility remains a key contributor to pedestrian collisions. Reduced lighting, driver glare, shadows cast by buildings or trees, and weather conditions can all reduce reaction times.
2. Speed and road design
Multi-lane roads, higher speed limits, and long stretches without crosswalks increase danger for pedestrians. These conditions can make it more difficult for drivers to react and more challenging for pedestrians to cross safely.
3. Distracted behavior
Both driver and pedestrian distractions continue to rise nationwide. A momentary lapse due to a device, GPS screen, or other distraction can lead to life-changing consequences.
4. Lack of pedestrian infrastructure
Many high-traffic areas in the Charleston region have limited sidewalks, crosswalks, or pedestrian islands, reducing safe walking routes.
5. Increased traffic volume
Charleston County continues to experience significant growth, bringing more vehicles to roads that were not built to handle today’s traffic levels.
While none of these elements indicate fault in the Mount Pleasant crash, they offer context for why tragedies like this occur and why legal, medical, and investigative processes become so important.
How Pedestrian Crash Investigations Work
When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, a detailed multi-agency investigation typically follows. This may involve the sheriff’s office, crash reconstruction specialists, local police, medical professionals, and insurance carriers. The purpose of the investigation is to understand how the event happened and what factors contributed to the outcome.
Investigations often include:
1. Scene examination
Officials review skid marks, vehicle position, roadway layout, lighting conditions, debris patterns, and visibility.
2. Witness interviews
Any bystanders or drivers who observed the crash may be questioned to help clarify the sequence of events.
3. Driver assessment
Law enforcement may evaluate the driver for impairment, distraction, fatigue, or other behavioral factors.
4. Vehicle inspection
A vehicle examination may include checking lighting, brakes, tire condition, and other elements that may influence crash performance.
5. Review of surveillance or dashcam footage
Nearby businesses, residences, or private vehicles may provide video footage.
6. Medical analysis
The coroner’s report and hospital records assist in understanding the severity and nature of the injuries.
The findings inform any potential civil claims, insurance decisions, or future safety recommendations.
Understanding the Legal Challenges Families Face
Families impacted by fatal pedestrian crashes often encounter a complex mix of grief, uncertainty, and practical concerns. Even when the cause of the crash is under investigation, several immediate issues arise.
Medical expenses
Treatment at emergency facilities or trauma centers, such as MUSC, often results in significant medical costs before an individual passes away. Families may not be prepared for unexpected hospital bills.
Funeral and end-of-life expenses
Loved ones must handle burial or memorial arrangements, which can place an unexpected financial burden on families.
Insurance interactions
Insurance companies begin their own investigations early. Families are often contacted for statements, documentation, or details related to the crash. Without guidance, it can be difficult to know what to release or how responses may affect a claim.
Liability determination
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, liability may involve the driver, the pedestrian, or potentially other contributing factors such as property design or visibility issues. Determining liability requires thorough evaluation of reports, footage, roadway conditions, and witness accounts.
Time sensitivity
South Carolina law places time limits on claims involving wrongful death and personal injury. Families may not realize how quickly deadlines approach, particularly when still processing a loss.
These issues make it important for families to understand their rights early, so they can make informed decisions going forward.
Why These Incidents Are Increasing
Communities across the state have expressed concern about the rising number of pedestrian deaths, particularly among older adults who may face challenges crossing busy roadways. Factors contributing to the increase include:
- growing suburban expansion
- increased nighttime traffic
- limited crosswalks and safe walking routes
- aging populations
- greater driver distraction
- more high-speed corridors connecting expanding communities
Public safety leaders continue to call for improvements in lighting, signage, pedestrian pathways, and community awareness.
What Victims and Families Can Do After a Pedestrian Crash
Although nothing can fully prevent the shock and emotional weight of a sudden loss, certain steps can help families protect their rights and manage the aftermath.
1. Obtain official records
Accident reports, coroner statements, and medical documentation are essential for understanding what happened and what options exist.
2. Preserve evidence
Photos, clothing, personal items, and witness information may play a role in determining liability. Even small details matter.
3. Avoid accepting quick settlements
Insurance companies sometimes attempt early offers before families understand the full situation. These offers may not reflect long-term costs or legal rights.
4. Keep communication documented
Any contact with insurance or involved parties should be stored in writing when possible.
5. Seek legal guidance early
Understanding rights from the beginning helps families manage the process with clarity and confidence. Legal representation can help gather evidence, communicate with insurance companies, and ensure deadlines are met.
The Human Impact Behind the Headlines
Behind every incident is a person with a story, a family, and a life rooted in their community. Reports like this one highlight more than just statistics. They underscore the importance of safer roads, public awareness, and strong support systems for families who are suddenly faced with unexpected tragedy.
While investigations will eventually reveal the full circumstances behind the crash that took the life of Robert Leventhal, the emotional and practical challenges now faced by his family are significant and deserve compassion and support.
Community Awareness and Road Safety
Pedestrian safety is a shared responsibility, involving drivers, pedestrians, city planners, and enforcement agencies. Communities across Charleston County continue working to reduce roadway dangers through improved infrastructure and increased education. Incidents like this remind local residents to remain vigilant on heavily traveled roads, especially during evening hours.
Roadway improvements such as enhanced lighting, visible crosswalks, pedestrian islands, and reduced speed zones can make these areas safer. Additionally, greater public awareness campaigns can help reinforce safe driving behaviors and highlight common risks.
