Saint George, SC (February 20, 2025) – A South Carolina Department of Transportation (SCDOT) worker was tragically killed Tuesday morning after being struck by a loose truck tire on US 15, approximately 12 miles north of Saint George.
The fatal accident occurred around 9 a.m. when 24-year-old Jared Devin Rose was standing on the highway shoulder. According to Dorchester County Coroner Paul Brouthers, a tire became disengaged from a passing 18-wheeler and struck Rose, fatally injuring him. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Rose had recently begun his career with SCDOT in 2024 as a surveyor in Dorchester County. Transportation officials expressed deep sorrow over the loss, emphasizing the dangers road workers face while maintaining and improving infrastructure across the state.
“Today’s tragedy is yet another reminder of the danger our front-line workers face as they work to improve the lives of South Carolinians. Jerad’s memory and his sacrifice in service to our state will not be forgotten. This is a tremendous loss, and I would ask all of you to join us in lifting up his family, friends, and colleagues in your prayers tonight,” said Secretary of Transportation Justin Powell.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol and the Dorchester County Coroner’s Office are conducting an investigation into the incident.
Roadway Worker Safety and Highway Dangers in South Carolina
Highway workers face significant risks every day while working near high-speed traffic. Accidents involving loose truck parts, reckless driving, and failure to obey work zone safety laws have led to numerous fatalities across the country.
Federal and state regulations require commercial truck operators to ensure their vehicles are properly maintained, including routine checks of tires and other critical components. When mechanical failures occur, such as a tire detaching from an 18-wheeler, the results can be catastrophic, especially for workers and pedestrians in the vicinity.
South Carolina has laws in place to protect road workers, including the “Move Over” law, which requires drivers to reduce speed and shift lanes when approaching work zones. However, work-related accidents continue to occur due to mechanical failures and driver negligence.
The loss of a worker in the line of duty is a sobering reminder of the dangers faced by those maintaining the state’s infrastructure. Families affected by such tragedies often experience significant emotional and financial hardship, making it important to understand their rights when seeking justice and compensation.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a work zone accident, professional legal and financial assistance can help navigate the challenges ahead.
For more information or to receive help after an accident, contact Local Accident Reports.