The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) is urging motorists to prioritize road safety as the state enters the year’s busiest travel season. To combat the risks associated with increased holiday traffic, the South Carolina Highway Patrol and State Transport Police will maintain an expanded presence throughout the Christmas and New Year’s enforcement windows.
Motorists can expect heavy law enforcement activity during the following periods:
| Holiday Period | Start Time | End Time |
| Christmas | 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 24 | Midnight, Sunday, Dec. 28 |
| New Year’s | 6:00 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 31 | Midnight, Sunday, Jan. 4 |
The push for vigilance follows a somber New Year’s period last year, which saw 871 collisions and nine fatalities on South Carolina roadways. Nearly half of those deaths were linked to alcohol or drug impairment, highlighting the critical need for sober driving.
SCDPS officials emphasize that while the holidays are for celebration, safety remains a shared responsibility. Drivers are encouraged to follow these core guidelines to ensure everyone reaches their destination:
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Secure a Safe Ride: Use public transportation, taxis, or ride-share applications like Uber and Lyft.
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Designate a Driver: Always confirm a sober driver is available before festivities begin.
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Eliminate Distractions: Keep phones out of reach and ensure all passengers, especially children, are properly buckled.
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Work Zones: Exercise extreme caution, reduce speed, and remain alert for highway workers.
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Aggressive Driving: If you encounter a reckless driver, slow down and allow them to pass rather than engaging with them.
State safety officials remind residents that avoiding highway tragedies starts with individual choices, from wearing seatbelts to obeying posted speed limits.
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