Charleston, October 8, 2025
News Summary
A recent report by ConsumerAffairs has ranked Charleston drivers as the 10th most dangerous in the U.S., a major drop from 133rd place in 2024. The city has experienced 23 traffic deaths in 2025, with significant concerns surrounding driving under the influence and speeding. These statistics highlight an urgent need for improved roadway safety measures, especially with the introduction of the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act. Traffic conditions necessitate public and legislative action to address these alarming trends and increase safety for all road users in Charleston.
Charleston drivers have been ranked the 10th most dangerous in the U.S. according to a new report by ConsumerAffairs. This alarming statistic signifies a drastic drop from the city’s previous ranking of 133rd in 2024, reflecting a significant jump of over 120 places and raising serious concerns about roadway safety in the area.
As of 2025, Charleston has recorded 23 traffic deaths, translating to a rate of 15.13 fatalities per 100,000 residents, which is notably higher than the national average of 12.31. Among these fatalities, driving under the influence has been particularly problematic, with a high rate of incidents involving positive blood alcohol content (BAC) readings. In Charleston, there are approximately 3.29 deaths per 100,000 residents attributed to driving under the influence, more than the national average of 1.95. In total, driving under the influence has been linked to five fatalities in Charleston in 2025.
Speeding has also emerged as a critical factor in the city’s dangerous driving statistics. Charleston ranks 11th in the rate of deaths involving speeding, with a shocking figure of 8.55 fatalities per 100,000 residents—more than double the national average of 3.54. Thus far in 2025, there have been 13 confirmed fatalities related to crashes involving speeding.
Experts contend that improving road safety in Charleston requires a change in driving behaviors, not merely enforcement and infrastructure upgrades. A ConsumerAffairs survey indicates that one in four drivers admits to texting while driving, and over 80% confess to speeding occasionally. Distracted or inattentive driving is a significant issue, resulting in over 20,000 crashes per year in South Carolina alone.
In response to these dangerous driving trends, legislative action is underway with the introduction of the Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act, which is set to come into effect on September 1. The urgency for such measures has been amplified due to the alarming rates of fatalities and public safety concerns in Charleston and surrounding areas.
Beyond traffic behavior, the infrastructure in South Carolina has faced scrutiny for not adequately protecting vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists. In light of this, the South Carolina Department of Transportation is actively working on various projects aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety along major roads in Charleston. Improvements are planned for crosswalks and medians in heavily trafficked areas like Morrison Drive, where two college students tragically lost their lives in 2024.
While overall traffic deaths in South Carolina saw a decline in 2024, reaching the lowest level in four years, fatalities among bikers increased by approximately 50%. Recognizing the urgent need for better infrastructure, the South Carolina Department of Transportation is prioritizing the protection of pedestrians and cyclists, especially in high-risk areas.
This year’s traffic conditions have notably raised concerns regarding public safety, highlighting the imperative for both the public and officials to address these serious issues collaboratively. With Charleston’s significantly dangerous driving ranking and the ongoing fatalities, the spotlight on road safety in the city is more critical than ever.
Frequently Asked Questions
What rank do Charleston drivers hold for dangerous driving in the U.S.?
Charleston drivers have been ranked the 10th most dangerous in the U.S. according to a new report by ConsumerAffairs.
How did Charleston’s ranking change from last year?
This ranking shows a significant drop from 133rd in 2024, reflecting a jump of over 120 places.
What are the main contributing factors to Charleston’s dangerous driving ranking?
Contributing factors to the ranking include high rates of fatalities from driving under the influence and speeding.
What are the current traffic death statistics in Charleston for 2025?
As of 2025, Charleston has recorded 23 traffic deaths, translating to a rate of 15.13 fatalities per 100,000 residents—higher than the national average of 12.31.
How does Charleston’s rate of deaths involving alcohol compare to the national average?
Charleston has a high rate of fatalities involving positive blood alcohol content (BAC) readings, with approximately 3.29 deaths per 100,000 residents, compared to the national average of 1.95.
What legislative actions are being taken to address distracted driving in South Carolina?
The Hands-Free and Distracted Driving Act is being introduced, effective September 1.
Key Features of Charleston’s Dangerous Driving Statistics
| Statistic | Charleston | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| Rank | 10th Most Dangerous | N/A |
| Traffic Death Rate | 15.13 per 100,000 | 12.31 per 100,000 |
| Driving Under Influence Deaths Rate | 3.29 per 100,000 | 1.95 per 100,000 |
| Speeding Deaths Rate | 8.55 per 100,000 | 3.54 per 100,000 |
| Confirmed Fatalities Involving Speeding | 13 | N/A |
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Additional Resources
- ABC News 4
- Wikipedia: Traffic Safety
- Live 5 News
- Google Search: Distracted Driving Statistics
- Charleston City Paper
- Google Scholar: Road Safety Initiatives
- Post and Courier
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Traffic Safety
- Island Packet
- Google News: Charleston Traffic Accidents
Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON
The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
