South Carolina is one of the worst states for drunk driving in the U.S., study finds

South Carolina – A new study by Forbes Advisor finds that South Carolina is the eighth worst state in the US for drunk driving. This concerning study shows how big of a problem drunk driving is not only in South Carolina but all over the country. Drunk driving is still an ongoing issue in the United States, which kills 37 people every day. This happens despite severe penalties and public awareness initiatives. According to the data, someone dies every 39 minutes due to drunk driving.

Drunk driving in South Carolina

There were six key metrics that were used to compare all 50 states and find the ones with the highest rates of driving while drunk. Based on the data, South Carolina has an alarming ranking (74.72 out of 100). The state has the third-highest number of drunk driving deaths, with 6.02 deaths per 100,000 people.

Also, South Carolina has the fifth most fatal crashes involving drunk drivers, 7.57 per 100,000 licensed drivers resulting in death. This number is especially alarming because it shows not only how common drunk driving is, but also the deadly outcomes that often result.

Read also: Justin Powell receives senate approval to lead South Carolina Department of Transportation

The rate of drunk drivers under 21 involved in fatal crashes in South Carolina is 0.61 per 100,000 licensed drivers, the sixth-highest rate in the country. This highlights a significant challenge in preventing underage drinking and driving, an issue that poses severe risks to young drivers and everyone else on the road.

Drivers should be aware that while the safety and well-being of South Carolina’s residents are in the first place, drivers caught driving while drunk also face harsh legal and financial consequences. A person who is found guilty can lose their license, get a criminal record, and have trouble getting cheap car insurance, among other things that happen over time.

Read also: South Carolina Department of Corrections challenges ACLU lawsuit over inmate communications

Top 10 states for drunk driving

1. Montana – Montana’s score:100 out of 100
2. South Dakota – South Dakota’s score:78 out of 100
3. Texas – Texas’ score:66 out of 100
4. Wyoming – Wyoming’s score:82 out of 100
5. North Dakota – North Dakota’s score:65 out of 100
6. Oregon – Oregon’s score:53 out of 100
7. New Mexico – New Mexico’s score:64 out of 100
8. South Carolina – South Carolina’s score:72 out of 100
9. Missouri – Missouri’s score:74 out of 100
10. Oklahoma – Oklahoma’s score:49 out of 100