OC experiencing increase in Highway Fatalities

Oconee County is experiencing an increase in the number of people killed on state roadways. As of Sept. 21 at midnight, the Golden Corner reports 11 traffic deaths in 2014 compared to just two in 2013. Neighboring Anderson County has also seen an increase. In 2014, Anderson County reports 27 fatalities compared to 21 in 2013. Fortunately, Pickens County is experiencing a decline with seven in 2014 and 12 in 2013. The South Carolina Department of Public Safety announces that as of Sept. 21, 526 people have died on state highways, compared to 550 highway deaths during the same period in 2013. Of the 367 motor vehicle occupants who have died in 2014, 181 were not wearing seat belts. Through midnight Sept. 21, 64 pedestrians have died compared to 65 in 2013; 62 motorcyclists have died compared to 96 in 2013; and 9 bicyclists have died compared to 11 in 2013 on state roads and highways.