Charleston Police Department works to curb road rage incidents

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)– December is one of the busiest months for drivers, and local law enforcement agencies are reminding you to practice patience as you hit the road amid an uptick in reports of road rage incidents.

The holiday season can bring out the worst in some Lowcountry drivers. Officers said busy areas like West Ashley, Savannah Highway, and downtown Charleston are often the hot spots for road rage incidents. 

News 2 spoke to shoppers in downtown Charleston. One person suggested avoiding driving altogether to eliminate some of the pressure.

“Any suggestions that I would give are to get here early. Remember that most of these parking garages are filled because everyone is trying to find that perfect spot and enjoy the holidays. Instead, use public transportation or rid shade at your service,” said Robert Reid, a downtown shopper.

While none of the four recent incidents have been fatal, that’s not always true. 

On October 3, the Charleston Police Department responded to a deadly shooting on Savannah Highway near the Parker’s Kitchen. Detectives said it all stemmed from a road rage incident. The agency has proactively stepped up patrols, hoping to prevent such events from escalating.

“Just some understanding of what we’re doing out there, you know, anytime we stop somebody for speeding, falling too closely, or changing lanes aggressively. All of those things are potentially preventing road rage down the line, so we’re just what we’re trying to do as police officers stop aggressive driving, and it’s also what most of these roadways stem from,” said Sgt Chris Stinson, PIO for the Charleston Police Department.

Officials from the Charleston PD said they just kicked off their ‘Sober or Slammer’ campaign, and they will have a heavy presence all holiday season long.