Fewer Traffic Fatalities in the Tri-County Upstate

The tri-county area of Upstate South Carolina has experienced fewer traffic fatalities this year than last. According to the latest figures from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, only one death has occurred this year in Oconee County compared to three last year at this same time. Anderson County lists five roadway deaths in 2017 compared to seven in 2016 at this same time. Pickens County reports one death each of the past two years at this time. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announces as of Feb. 12, 2017, 100 people have died on state highways, compared to 103 highway deaths during the same time period in 2016. Of the 83 motor vehicle occupants who have died statewide in 2017, 40 were not wearing safety belts. Through midnight Feb. 12, nine pedestrians have died compared to 15 in 2016; four motorcyclists have died compared to 11 in 2016; and two bicyclists have died compared to four in 2016 on state roadways.