On a quiet Thursday evening in Spartanburg County, South Carolina, tragedy struck when a pedestrian was killed in a fatal crash on Interstate 26. The incident, reported by the South Carolina Highway Patrol (SCHP), occurred around 5:20 p.m. at mile marker 26, in the eastbound lanes of I-26.
According to authorities, a 2005 Ford SUV travelling eastbound veered off the right side of the roadway and struck a pedestrian who was standing on the shoulder. Sadly, the pedestrian, later identified as 41-year-old Mary Lynn Carter of Clinton, South Carolina, died at the scene. The Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office confirmed that she was pronounced dead at around 6:20 p.m. A forensic exam was scheduled for the following day.
This heart-wrenching incident has left the local community grieving and serves as a stark reminder of the serious risks pedestrians face, even when they are not on the active lanes of the highway. It also brings into focus the legal implications and options available to families after such unexpected losses.
The Dangers Pedestrians Face on South Carolina Roads
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Unlike motorists, they do not have the protection of steel frames, airbags, or seat belts. When a vehicle veers off the road, intentionally or accidentally, the outcome is often devastating.
In South Carolina, pedestrian accidents have been a persistent concern, especially on high-speed roads such as Interstate 26. These routes are not typically designed with pedestrian activity in mind, and when individuals do end up on or near highways, whether due to a vehicle breakdown, emergency, or any other reason, their risk of injury or death significantly increases.
Unfortunately, this isn’t the first tragic incident of its kind on I-26 or other major South Carolina interstates. Each year, multiple fatalities are reported involving pedestrians who were on the shoulder or attempting to cross interstates where foot traffic is generally unexpected.
What Happens Legally After a Pedestrian Is Killed?
In the aftermath of a fatal pedestrian crash, several legal actions and investigations are triggered. Authorities, including the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the local coroner’s office, play key roles in determining the cause of the accident.
Legal questions also emerge quickly:
- Was the driver distracted or impaired?
- Was the pedestrian visible?
- Were road conditions a factor?
- Was there a vehicle malfunction?
These questions are critical not only for justice, but also for helping families receive the compensation and closure they need. A thorough investigation, including forensic analysis, witness interviews, and vehicle inspections, is conducted to determine liability.
Even though the pedestrian was standing on the shoulder, that doesn’t automatically place blame on them. Motorists have a duty to stay within their lanes and drive attentively. When that duty is breached, and someone is hurt or killed as a result, the driver may be held accountable in civil court, even if criminal charges are not filed.
Wrongful Death Claims in South Carolina
When someone loses a loved one in a preventable accident, South Carolina law allows their surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim. This type of civil lawsuit can be brought against a party whose negligence or reckless actions led to a fatality.
In the case of Mary Lynn Carter, if investigators determine that the driver of the SUV was at fault, whether due to distraction, speeding, fatigue, or any other negligent behaviour, her family may be entitled to compensation through a wrongful death claim.
Damages in a wrongful death case may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills if the victim received care before passing
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
A wrongful death claim not only helps provide financial stability for grieving families but can also serve to hold the responsible party accountable.
What Role Does a Law Firm Play After Such Tragedies?
Legal support is essential after a fatal crash, particularly one involving complex circumstances like a pedestrian being hit on the interstate. At this time, families are not just grieving, they’re often confused, overwhelmed, and unsure of what to do next.
A skilled legal team helps by:
- Launching an independent investigation
- Gathering evidence (including police reports, vehicle data, and surveillance footage)
- Working with accident reconstruction experts if necessary
- Handling communication with insurance companies
- Pursuing maximum compensation through settlement or trial
Navigating these legal channels requires diligence, clarity, and a strong grasp of local laws. That’s why having an experienced law firm matters.
I-26 and the History of Accidents in Spartanburg County
Interstate 26 runs through a significant portion of South Carolina, including Spartanburg County. Over the years, I-26 has seen its share of traffic collisions, many of them fatal.
High-speed traffic, merging lanes, construction zones, and high congestion contribute to the dangerous conditions. Moreover, unexpected roadside activity, such as pedestrians on the shoulder, can quickly turn tragic if drivers are not alert.
This recent incident adds to a growing number of crashes reported in this region, raising concerns about road safety, driver behaviour, and the need for public awareness.
How to Stay Safe as a Pedestrian on South Carolina Roads
While highways are not designed for pedestrian use, there are times when individuals find themselves on the side of the road due to emergencies or vehicle trouble. In those moments, safety becomes paramount.
Here are a few tips that may help reduce the risk:
- Always stay as far away from the travel lanes as possible
- Use reflective clothing or a torch if visibility is low
- Avoid standing directly behind or in front of your vehicle
- Call for roadside assistance immediately
- Stay in your vehicle if it’s safe and visible to oncoming traffic
Drivers also play a key role in prevention by reducing speed, avoiding distractions, and maintaining a safe distance from the shoulder of the road.
How Ted Law Firm Can Help After a Pedestrian Fatality
At Ted Law Firm, we understand the unimaginable pain families go through when a loved one is taken suddenly in a traffic accident. If someone you love was a pedestrian who was struck and killed on a South Carolina roadway, we are here to help you get the justice you deserve.
We handle wrongful death and serious injury cases with compassion and focus, making sure your voice is heard and your family’s future is protected. Our firm will conduct a detailed investigation, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for every dollar you are owed.
Don’t wait for answers to come to you, take the first step toward justice.
About Ted Law Firm
Ted Law Firm represents individuals and families across South Carolina who have been affected by serious accidents, injuries, and wrongful deaths. With a deep understanding of state law and a client-entered approach, we are committed to helping our clients achieve justice and fair compensation. Serving Aiken, Anderson, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta, Orangeburg, Charleston, Columbia, Greenville, and Summerville. Contact Ted Law Firm today for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get the justice you deserve.
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.
