I-95 Named South Carolina’s Most Dangerous Road

Why This Highway Is a Top Concern for South Carolina Motorists

If you spend time on South Carolina highways, you have driven along Interstate 95. This major route runs through the eastern part of the state and is a key connection point for local drivers, long-haul truckers, and vacationers. Recent research from Car Insurance Comparison identified I-95 as the most dangerous highway in South Carolina, based on its average of 30 traffic fatalities per year.

Although that number is lower than in states like Florida, where fatality counts on the same interstate regularly exceed 100, the risk to South Carolina drivers remains serious. High speeds, heavy congestion, unpredictable traffic patterns, and new construction zones make I-95 one of the most hazardous roads in the state for car accidents.

What Makes I-95 So Dangerous?

Interstate 95 is one of the most heavily traveled routes in South Carolina. It connects the state to major hubs along the East Coast, carrying a steady mix of long-haul freight, tourists, and local drivers. While it remains a vital part of the region’s transportation network, the highway also has a troubling safety record.

According to data compiled by Alot.com, I-95 in South Carolina was the site of 244 crashes and 301 fatalities between 2008 and 2018. These figures suggest that many collisions involved more than one victim, pointing to multi-passenger vehicles or commercial trucks. Unlike more isolated rural roads, crashes on I-95 often affect families or multiple occupants traveling together.

In recent years, outdated infrastructure, growing congestion, and long-term construction efforts have only made conditions more dangerous. State and local officials have committed to major upgrades throughout the corridor.

I-95 Widening and Improvements Project

The South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) recently awarded the I-95 Widening and Improvements Project in partnership with the Georgia Department of Transportation. The project spans a 10-mile stretch from one mile north of the Georgia state line to approximately mile marker 9, just beyond US 278.

The region is experiencing rapid growth in both population and industry. According to SCDOT’s 2021 I-95 Feasibility Report, the corridor ranks among the worst rural interstates for freight mobility. Traffic congestion is expected to intensify significantly by 2050, particularly at key access points, such as exits 5 and 8. The new infrastructure will support projected residential, industrial, and commercial development, including distribution hubs near Purrysburg Road.

The project covers fourteen bridges and two existing interchanges at exits 5 and 8. It includes accommodations for a new interchange at exit 3, which is being developed separately by the Town of Hardeeville. It also includes the construction of a new bridge over the Savannah River. This project is expected to continue through 2030.

Risks Posed by the Construction Zone

As the I-95 corridor through South Carolina undergoes significant upgrades, the construction zone itself introduces several hazards for drivers. These risks can affect short-distance travelers and long-haul drivers, particularly in areas near active work zones and developing interchanges.

Shifting and Reduced Lanes. Construction often requires traffic to move through narrowed or rerouted lanes. These shifting configurations can create confusion, especially for out-of-state drivers unfamiliar with the area. Reduced lanes leave little room for error when large trucks or passenger vehicles attempt to merge, pass, or maintain safe distances.

Uneven Surfaces and Pavement Transitions. Temporary pavement grades, gravel patches, and bumpy road surfaces are common in active construction areas. These changes can reduce traction and impact braking distance and cause vehicles, especially motorcycles and smaller cars, to lose control. Drivers must also adjust quickly to transitions between finished and unfinished sections of the roadway.

Sudden Stops and Detours. Stop-and-go traffic is common along construction corridors, particularly during mid-morning and early evening hours when freight and commuter traffic is at its highest. Sudden slowdowns and unexpected detours may lead to rear-end collisions, especially when drivers fail to anticipate changes in speed or lane closures.

Bridge and Interchange Work. Ongoing work on fourteen bridges and three interchanges within the 10-mile project area presents additional challenges. Near the Savannah River and exits 5 and 8, drivers may encounter heavy equipment, temporary supports, and shifting traffic patterns. Introducing a new interchange at exit 3, combined with detours and partial closures, can further complicate travel in these areas.

Poor Visibility and Signage Confusion. Construction areas often lack consistent lighting or clear signage, particularly at night or during adverse weather conditions. Missing or obstructed signs, faded lane markings, or unclear detour arrows can mislead drivers or cause them to make last-minute maneuvers. These conditions are especially risky for older drivers or those unfamiliar with the corridor.

If you were injured while traveling through a highway construction zone, an attorney can help you investigate whether poor signage, unsafe lane conditions, or faulty construction management contributed to your accident. 

Popular Stops Along I-95 That May See Increased Traffic

Several well-known attractions sit just off Interstate 95 in South Carolina. These destinations attract both local visitors and long-distance travelers, and may experience a rise in traffic volume during and after construction. As congestion and delays increase along the main corridor, more drivers may exit these areas to rest, refuel, or explore. While these stops provide a welcome break, they may also see heavier traffic patterns that can impact safety and accessibility.

South of the Border (Exit 1)

Just one mile south of the North Carolina border, South of the Border is one of the most iconic roadside attractions on the East Coast. It features restaurants, amusement rides, souvenir shops, fireworks stands, and lodging options. With construction and slowdowns near the Georgia and North Carolina lines, more travelers may choose to take a break here, increasing congestion around the entrance and surrounding roadways.

South Carolina Artisans Center (Exit 57)

Three miles off the highway near Walterboro, the South Carolina Artisans Center showcases the work of more than 300 juried artists. Visitors will find a variety of handcrafted goods, ranging from textiles and pottery to the state’s signature sweetgrass baskets. As I-95 sees more development in this region, especially near Exits 57 and 60, the added detour traffic could lead to higher demand at this location.

Woods Bay State Park (Exit 141)

This state park provides visitors access to a rare Carolina Bay ecosystem, featuring a walking trail, boardwalk, and wildlife viewing areas. As delays and construction zones increase stress and fatigue among drivers, parks like Woods Bay may serve as vital recovery points. However, heavier exit traffic could strain parking availability and local roads leading to the park.

Pee Dee State Farmers Market (Exit 164)

Located just 1.5 miles off I-95, this 55-acre market features fresh produce, flowers, handmade goods, and wine from South Carolina vendors. The market is open year-round and hosts seasonal events, drawing tourists and locals alike. As detours and temporary closures shift traffic toward Florence, the surrounding area could experience higher-than-normal exit rates and increased commercial activity.

Atomic Bomb Crater Site (Exit 170)

This unique historical site marks where a U.S. Air Force bomb mistakenly fell in 1958, destroying a home and leaving a large crater. While the crater is on private land, the nearby historical marker and kiosk draw visitors interested in military and Cold War history. With roadwork and congestion along this stretch of I-95, there is potential for this lesser-known stop to see a surge in curious travelers seeking meaningful breaks off the main highway.

If you were involved in a crash near one of these exits and believe distracted driving, speeding, or some other factor played a role, speak with a car accident attorney who can assess the contributing factors and explain what your legal options are.

Common Causes of I-95 Accidents

Certain behaviors appear again and again in I-95 crash reports. While every crash has unique details, the following causes are prevalent:

• Speeding. Drivers often exceed the speed limit on long, straight stretches of I-95. At high speeds, one mistake can lead to a serious or fatal crash. In 2024, one crash involved a tractor-trailer driver who was speeding and struck several vehicles, leaving five people dead. 
• Driver fatigue. Drowsy driving is a significant issue, particularly for truck drivers and vacationers who cover long distances without adequate rest. Even for locals, who work odd-hour jobs, have graveyard shifts, or work multiple jobs, driving tired is just as dangerous as driving under the influence. According to the National Sleep Foundation, if an individual only gets 3-5 hours of sleep, they are not in the best position to drive at all.
• Distracted driving. Eating, texting, reaching for something in your passenger or back seat, answering a phone call, navigating your Google or Apple Maps App on your phone or car navigation system, or syncing and adjusting a Bluetooth device to listen to your favorite songs on Apple Music, Spotify, or SiriusXM can all distract a driver during a critical moment.
• Impaired driving. Alcohol and drug use continue to cause fatal collisions, especially late at night or early in the morning. According to South Carolina’s Department of Public Safety, over 28,000 DUI-related crashes occurred throughout the state from 2018 to 2022. If a driver has a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher, they are considered to be driving under the influence and can face fines or imprisonment for a first offense. 
• Aggressive lane changes. Sudden lane merges or weaving in and out of high-traffic areas can often lead to car pileups.

Even responsible drivers are at risk when others ‘ decisions on the road affect them. If someone else’s behavior caused you to crash on I-95, you may have the right to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.

When Do Most I-95 Crashes Happen?

The risk of a crash on I-95 tends to increase during high travel periods. Holiday weekends, summer vacations, and spring break weeks often lead to more cars on the road and more distracted drivers behind the wheel. Low visibility conditions in some stretches of the highway also contribute to collisions, especially when drivers do not adjust their speed.

Nighttime driving also adds another layer of risk. Reduced visibility and driver fatigue make responding to sudden stops or merging traffic harder. In some areas, poor lighting and narrow shoulders give drivers little room to correct a mistake or avoid another vehicle.

Whether you are commuting to work, returning from a family trip, or passing through South Carolina on a long-distance drive, you face greater risks on I-95 than on many other highways in the state.

Know Your Rights After an I-95 Collision

A crash on Interstate 95 can leave you with medical bills, missed work time, and a vehicle that is no longer safe to drive. In some cases, the driver may deny responsibility, or the insurance company may pressure you to accept a low settlement. When that happens, you need someone on your side who understands South Carolina law and knows how to fight for fair compensation.

At the Steinberg Law Firm, we help people who have been seriously injured in car crashes, including those on I-95 and other high-risk highways. Our attorneys know how to investigate the cause of a collision, gather evidence, and hold the right parties accountable. Call us at 843-720-2800 or use our online contact form to schedule your free consultation.