Colleton County, South Carolina (September 12, 2025) — In the early morning hours of September 12, 2025, a Dodge Ram pickup truck and a Freightliner tractor-trailer collided at the intersection of Low Country Highway and Catkin Lane.
Incident Details: The South Carolina Highway Patrol reported that the crash occurred around 4:16 a.m. The Dodge Ram sustained catastrophic damage, and the driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Emergency personnel attempted life-saving measures but were unsuccessful. The driver of the tractor-trailer was transported to a nearby hospital with injuries. Authorities have not yet disclosed the condition of the truck driver or the name of the deceased pending family notification.
The crash forced the temporary closure of Low Country Highway as troopers conducted an initial assessment and crews worked to remove the vehicles from the roadway. Morning commuters in the area experienced delays as traffic was rerouted.
Investigation: Authorities confirmed that the South Carolina Highway Patrol’s Multi-disciplinary Accident Investigation Team (MAIT) is handling the case. Investigators will review skid marks, debris, and the positions of the vehicles to determine how the collision occurred. They are also expected to evaluate whether factors such as speed, driver fatigue, or impairment contributed.
The size and weight of tractor-trailers often magnify the severity of collisions, and crash reconstruction can take days or weeks to complete. Investigators may examine the truck’s electronic logging device to review speed and braking data in the moments before impact. Witness accounts and nearby surveillance footage, if available, could also provide valuable insight.
Legal Considerations: Fatal crashes involving commercial trucks often raise complex liability questions. Multiple parties, including the truck driver, the trucking company, or even third-party maintenance providers, may come under scrutiny. Families of victims may be entitled to pursue wrongful death claims that can provide compensation for funeral costs, loss of income, and the profound emotional impact of losing a loved one.
In addition, the trucking industry is subject to strict federal and state safety regulations. Violations related to hours of service, cargo securement, or vehicle maintenance may influence the outcome of both the investigation and any potential legal proceedings.
Tragic incidents like this underscore the dangers of rural highways, where limited lighting, narrow lanes, and heavy commercial traffic increase the risk of devastating collisions. Drivers are reminded to remain alert and exercise caution, especially during early morning hours when visibility is reduced.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the victim and our thoughts to those injured in this tragic accident.
Source: WCSC