South Carolina’s injury trends are strongly influenced by forces that reach across the state rather than isolated events. Surges in tourism, rapid development, an aging population, and industry-specific hazards each shape the types of accidents that occur and the risks residents face. Matthew Breen, a Charleston personal injury attorney, is well-versed in these trends. He knows how these structural factors help victims, families, and attorneys determine liability and strengthen their claims, allowing him to remain one step ahead of the game.
Current Injury Trends From a Charleston Personal Injury Attorney
As we dive into the main drivers shaping injury patterns, we’ll also discuss how Attorney Breen evaluates each situation for the cause of the injury and who may be responsible.
Seasonal Tourism Spikes in Coastal Regions
Tourism rises sharply during the summer in Charleston, Hilton Head, and Myrtle Beach. Coastal data shows that more than half of annual vacation-rental revenue is generated between June and August, which reflects the concentrated influx of visitors. With heavier traffic, more rental vehicles, crowded pedestrian areas, and inconsistent upkeep in short-term rentals, both roadway collisions and slip-and-fall incidents become more likely.
These conditions create clear seasonal patterns, linked to overcrowded intersections, unfamiliar drivers, and properties that may not meet safety standards. When evaluating a summertime injury, Matthew Breen considers whether peak-season congestion or unsafe premises contributed to the event. These tourism pressures combine with another major force reforming the state: population growth.
Rapid Population Growth and Construction-Related Hazards
South Carolina’s rapid growth has led to constant construction along highways, in residential developments, and in commercial corridors. These zones introduce shifting lanes, detours, and increased heavy-equipment traffic. Crashes in work zones are especially dangerous due to reduced visibility and confusing traffic patterns.
New construction also increases slip-and-trip risks. Uneven sidewalks, temporary surfaces, and poorly marked hazards are common during large-scale development. For a qualified personal injury lawyer, these cases require close review of contractor oversight, municipal responsibility, and adherence to safety standards. As development accelerates, a demographic shift further affects statewide injury trends.
Aging Population and Increased Fall-Related Injuries
Older adults represent a growing share of South Carolina’s population, and falls remain their most common cause of injury. The state reports tens of thousands of E.R. visits among adults 65 and older each year due to unintentional falls.
Many of these incidents stem from preventable hazards such as:
- Poor lighting
- Uneven pavement
- Slippery floors
- Inadequate maintenance in homes or care facilities.
Because fall-related injuries in older adults often involve longer recovery times and higher medical costs, precise documentation of hazardous conditions becomes essential. A knowledgeable attorney looks for failures by property owners or facilities to correct known risks. As demographic pressures mount, workplace trends also play a major role in shaping injuries across the state.
Agricultural and Industrial Exposure
Agriculture, manufacturing, and industrial operations contribute significantly to South Carolina’s economy, but they also introduce unique hazards. Heavy equipment, hazardous chemicals, confined-space work, and transportation-related tasks account for a substantial portion of the state’s serious and fatal workplace injuries. Labor data confirms that transportation incidents and harmful-environment exposure represent major categories of fatal cases each year.
These claims often involve multiple responsible parties, such as:
- Employers
- Equipment manufacturers
- Third-party contractors
In these cases, Attorney Breen must assess whether safety procedures were followed, whether equipment was properly maintained, and whether workers were adequately trained. These cases typically require technical investigation to determine exactly what went wrong.
Speak to a Personal Injury Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured, contact Lowcountry Law, LLC, today to schedule a free consultation. We help victims pursue fair compensation and hold negligent parties accountable.
