The Dangers of US Route 17 and US Route 17 Alternate in South Carolina

Driving along the South Carolina coast is a beautiful, scenic drive. However, tens of thousands of people visit South Carolina beaches each summer, which can make traveling on the various coastal roads more dangerous than most people realize. Two of the most dangerous coastal roads in South Carolina are the similarly named US Route 17 and US Route 17 Alternate. Those considering a trip to South Carolina should make sure that they understand that US Route 17 is longer in length, while US Route 17 Alternate is shorter in length yet scenic. Regardless of which route is taken, each route poses its own unique challenges. 

US Route 17

US Route 17, which is also known as the Coastal Highway, starts in Punta Gorda, Florida, and travels north through Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina before ending in Winchester, Virginia. US Route 17, which closely hugs the Atlantic Coast, has been named one of the five deadliest roads in the United States. 

What Makes US Route 17 Dangerous?

Route 17 is known to present several dangers to motorists, including frequent wildlife crossings, sharp turns, sudden curves, and narrow lanes. Because US Route 17 is one of the main roads people use when traveling between Myrtle Beach and Charleston, it also experiences a high level of traffic, especially in the summer months. 

US Route 17 Alternate

US Route 17 Alternate is a 123-mile stretch of road between Pocotaligo and Georgetown. Unlike US Route 17, Route 17 Alternate is entirely contained within South Carolina. The road was created to help alleviate the traffic on Route 17. US Route 17 Alternate runs further inland than Route 17, making it more convenient for those who need to travel north or south but are not concerned about driving along the coast. 

What Makes US Route 17 Alternate Dangerous?

US Route 17 Alternate is also known as a dangerous road, although it does not experience as many car accidents as US Route 17. One of the most dangerous aspects of US Route 17 Alternate is the fact that much of the road is an unlit two-lane highway. While US 17 Alternate doesn’t have a tremendous number of sharp corners, motorists who are frequently on the highway report other drivers drifting out of their lanes. US Route 17 also passes through a number of smaller towns, meaning there isn’t a consistent speed limit. Thus, some drivers who are distracted or not paying close attention to their surroundings may be caught off-guard by a suddenly reduced speed limit. There are also a significant number of crossroads that cut through US 17 Alternate, making it imperative to be especially alert. 

Were You Injured in a South Carolina Car Accident on US Route 17 or US Route 17 Alternate?

US Route 17 is one of the most dangerous highways in the United States. If you or a loved one were recently injured in a motor vehicle collision that occurred on US Route 17 or US Route 17 Alternate, you are not alone. However, you may be able to obtain financial compensation for your injuries and accident-related expenses through a personal injury lawsuit. At the Steinberg Law Firm, our dedicated Charleston car accident attorneys have over 95 years of experience aggressively advocating on behalf of accident victims and their families. In fact, over the past ten years, we’ve recovered more than $500 million on behalf of our clients. To learn more, and to schedule a free consultation today, call the Steinberg Law Firm at 843-720-2800. You can also connect with us through our secure online contact form.