A devastating drunk driving accident on Highway 14 in Greer, South Carolina has claimed four innocent lives, serving as a tragic reminder of the deadly consequences of driving under the influence. The head-on collision occurred on September 11, 2020, when Richard Shane Plowden allegedly crossed the center line and struck an oncoming SUV.
The Tragic Details
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, Plowden was driving under the influence when his SUV veered into oncoming traffic, causing a fatal head-on collision. All four occupants of the struck vehicle were killed on impact. A judge has denied bond to Plowden, who now faces serious criminal charges.
Criminal Charges and Penalties
Plowden has been charged with:
- Four counts of Felony DUI (one for each victim)
- Driving without insurance
In South Carolina, Felony DUI carries severe penalties:
- Prison sentences ranging from 1 to 25 years per count
- Substantial fines and court costs
- Permanent criminal record
- License suspension or revocation
With four Felony DUI counts, Plowden could face up to 100 years in prison if convicted on all charges.
South Carolina's Drunk Driving Crisis
This tragedy reflects a broader public safety crisis in South Carolina:
- Approximately 1,000 people are killed annually on South Carolina roadways
- A significant percentage of these traffic fatalities involve alcohol or drugs
- Innocent families continue to pay the ultimate price for preventable accidents
Civil Liability Beyond Criminal Charges
While criminal prosecution addresses society's interest in justice, families of drunk driving victims also have important civil rights:
Wrongful Death Claims
Families can pursue compensation for:
- Medical expenses and funeral costs
- Lost income and future earnings
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of companionship and guidance
Dram Shop Liability
South Carolina law holds bars and restaurants accountable when they:
- Serve alcohol to clearly intoxicated patrons
- Provide alcohol to minors
- Continue serving someone who is visibly impaired
Important Legal Development: In 2017, South Carolina required most bars and restaurants to carry $1 million in insurance specifically for dram shop liability cases.
Legal Options for Victims' Families
If you've lost a loved one to a drunk driver, you have legal rights:
Immediate Steps:
- Preserve evidence from the crash scene
- Document injuries and financial losses
- Consult with an experienced wrongful death attorney
- Investigate potential dram shop claims
Potential Defendants:
- The drunk driver
- Bars or restaurants that overserved alcohol
- Other potentially liable parties
Why Professional Legal Representation Matters
Drunk driving cases involve complex legal issues:
- Multiple areas of law (criminal, personal injury, dram shop)
- Insurance complications and coverage disputes
- Time-sensitive evidence that must be preserved
- Emotional trauma while navigating legal proceedings
At Pracht Injury Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact drunk driving accidents have on families. Our experienced team handles:
- Wrongful death cases involving intoxicated drivers
- Personal injury claims for drunk driving survivors
- Dram shop cases against establishments that overserve alcohol
Moving Forward with Justice and Healing
No legal outcome can bring back these four precious lives lost in Greer. However, holding all responsible parties accountable can:
- Provide financial security for surviving family members
- Send a strong message about the consequences of drunk driving
- Help prevent future tragedies through deterrence
At Pracht Injury Lawyers, we prosecute Wrongful Death cases involving drunk drivers. Our office has also assisted folks that have suffered an injury because of the reckless behavior of drunk drivers. Additionally, our office handles cases called “Dram Shop” cases. Dram Shop cases are brought against the seller of liquor and beer. In South Carolina, if you sell alcohol to a minor or to a clearly intoxicated adult, then you are liable for the injuries they cause to innocent people. In 2017, the South Carolina General Assembly passed a law requiring almost all bars and restaurants to carry insurance in the amount of $1,000,000 to cover Dram Shop liability.
Please keep the families of the victims in your thoughts and prayers. Click here for a link to the WYFF news story.
