On Monday evening, June 16, 2025, a fatal crash occurred on Rainbow Lake Road near Lowe Lane in Spartanburg County, South Carolina. According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Spartanburg County Coroner’s Office, a vehicle traveling westbound left the road, struck a utility pole, then collided with a tree.
The driver, identified as 69-year-old Jerry Eugene Radford of Boiling Springs, was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene at 8:53 p.m. Emergency crews responded quickly, and both SCHP and the coroner’s office are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.
No other vehicles were involved, and weather conditions at the time have not yet been cited as a factor.
While single-vehicle crashes may appear straightforward, there are often many factors that can contribute to the outcome, some of which may not be the fault of the driver. These can include:
Medical emergencies (such as heart attack or stroke while driving)
Road hazards, such as poor lighting, faded markings, or debris
Vehicle malfunctions, such as brake or steering failure
Environmental conditions, including slick pavement or low visibility
In many cases, families of victims may not realize that they could be entitled to benefits through insurance or even have grounds to investigate third-party liability such as city infrastructure issues or faulty auto parts.
After a tragic loss like this, families are often left with difficult questions. South Carolina law allows next of kin to pursue a wrongful death claim or survivorship claim if there’s reason to believe another party’s negligence contributed to the accident even in single-vehicle crashes.
Here’s what family members can do:
Request the full incident report and follow up with investigators for any updates
Preserve the vehicle if possible for mechanical inspection
Speak with an attorney early to evaluate insurance coverage, road conditions, and possible third-party responsibility
This tragic incident is a reminder of how quickly a quiet drive can turn deadly. Whether you’re driving rural routes or suburban streets:
Always drive at safe speeds and adjust for road visibility and curves
Don’t ignore warning signs from your car such as odd noises, handling issues, or sensor lights
If you ever feel dizzy, disoriented, or unwell behind the wheel, pull over immediately
On less-traveled roads, use headlights early and stay vigilant for deer, fallen branches, or road dips
If someone you love was involved in a similar crash and you have unanswered questions, we can help. Our South Carolina personal injury and wrongful death attorneys can provide clarity during a difficult time, reviewing the details, advising on next steps, and helping your family get the answers and support you deserve.
Contact us at 864-777-1000 today for a free and confidential consultation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and reflects public reports as of June 16, 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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