In the pre-dawn hours of Sunday, July 6, 2025, a tragic collision occurred on West Shockley Ferry Road, just south of Harris Street near Anderson, South Carolina. South Carolina Highway Patrol reports indicate a bicyclist was traveling northbound but in the southbound lane, when he abruptly turned right. That’s when an approaching SUV, also heading north, struck him. The cyclist was taken to a hospital, where he later died from traumatic injuries at 6:15 a.m. The victim has been identified as 52-year-old James Patrick Thompson of Anderson. The SUV driver was unharmed and the crash is still under investigation.
Although this crash was a motor vehicle accident, a fatality like this also raises civil legal questions in South Carolina:
Negligence and Fault:
The vehicle driver may argue the cyclist was at fault. Still, liability often comes down to factors such as proper lane usage, lighting conditions, and visibility.
Comparative Fault Rule:
South Carolina law applies a “modified comparative negligence” standard: a victim or their family can recover damages as long as they are not more than 50% at fault.
Possible Defendants:
Claims may involve the SUV driver, municipality (if road design or maintenance contributed), or even manufacturers if equipment failure played a role.
Families may consider a wrongful death claim, allowing them to seek justice and compensation for medical costs, funeral expenses, and emotional loss.
Obtain Official Documents:
Request the full crash report and medical records to establish timeline and causation.
Preserve Evidence:
This includes vehicle damage photos, scene documentation, and witness statements.
Act Promptly:
The statute of limitations for wrongful death in South Carolina is three years from the date of death.
Seek Legal Assistance:
A qualified personal injury attorney can evaluate liability, guide evidence collection, and advise on insurance claims.
Cyclists and drivers should both be vigilant to avoid accidents:
Cyclists: Ride with reflective gear, use lights at night, and stay in the correct traffic lane.
Drivers: Be alert for nighttime cyclists and maintain safe following distances.
Local Authorities: Install better road signage, lighting, and bicycle lanes where possible.
Losing a loved one in a collision is devastating and legal matters can add to that burden. Our South Carolina personal injury and wrongful death attorneys can:
Investigate fault and gather evidence
Negotiate with insurers and any defendants
Help secure compensation for families, including funeral costs, lost income, and emotional damages
Contact us now for a free, compassionate consultation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects public reports as of July 6, 2025. We do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the information provided. It is not intended as legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our qualified attorneys.
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