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Pedestrian Killed When Trailer Separates After Crash in Beaufort County

What Happened?

On Sunday morning, August 3, 2025, at about 10:45 a.m., a fatal auto‑pedestrian collision occurred on Bluffton Parkway, approximately 1.5 miles east of Bluffton in Beaufort County, South Carolina. The South Carolina Highway Patrol reports that a Jeep Compass towing a trailer became disabled in the eastbound lane. A Toyota RAV4 then struck the trailer, which in turn hit two pedestrians standing nearby.

Both the driver of the RAV4 and one pedestrian were transported to a local hospital. The other pedestrian was pronounced dead at the scene. The Beaufort County Coroner’s Office has not released the identity of the deceased as of this writing. The Highway Patrol continues its investigation

Legal Considerations

Under South Carolina law, this tragic incident could support a wrongful death claim if one pedestrian died due to another party’s negligence. Such a claim can help recover damages for funeral expenses, medical costs, and loss of companionship.

South Carolina applies the modified comparative negligence rule. If the deceased pedestrian is found partially at fault, any compensation awarded may be reduced proportionally. If fault exceeds 50 percent, the surviving family may be ineligible for recovery.

The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in South Carolina is generally three years from the date of death. Consulting a qualified South Carolina attorney early on can help families understand whether legal options are available and begin any necessary investigation promptly.

Safety Tips / Public Awareness

This incident highlights critical safety concerns for drivers and pedestrians alike:

  • Drivers should ensure trailers are properly secured and not left disabled in travel lanes.

  • Pedestrians should maintain a safe distance from disabled vehicles or road hazards.

  • Communities benefit from enhanced infrastructure and public awareness about trailer-related roadside risks.

Schedule A Free Call with South Carolina Personal Injury Attorney

If your family has lost a loved one involved in a pedestrian crash, you may have legal rights even if fault seems unclear. Investigating liability in these situations requires careful work and must comply with South Carolina’s time limits.

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Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects public reports as of Aug 4, 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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