Horry County, SC (February 15, 2026) – A crash involving a vehicle that went down an embankment into a wooded area blocked lanes of Socastee-bound traffic on Hwy 544 near Blake Rd Friday afternoon. Horry County Fire Rescue responded to the scene after receiving the call.
Key Details
- Location: Hwy 544 near Blake Rd
- Type: Single-vehicle crash with injuries
- Reported: February 13 at 1:17 p.m.
- Injuries: One person transported to hospital; one signed medical transport waiver
- Investigation: South Carolina Highway Patrol investigating
What We Know So Far
- The vehicle reportedly left the roadway and traveled down an embankment into the woods.
- Emergency crews removed one person from the vehicle and transported them to a hospital for treatment.
- Another individual at the scene declined transport after signing a medical waiver.
- Socastee-bound lanes on Hwy 544 were blocked while responders worked.
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The condition of the injured person following hospital evaluation
- What caused the vehicle to leave the roadway
- How long traffic disruptions lasted in the area
Local Context
Routes handling regional traffic near Hwy 544 and Blake Rd can experience delays after accidents, especially along stretches bordered by wooded areas and embankments. Crews in Horry County prioritize clearing hazards and stabilizing vehicles when crashes involve departures from the roadway that complicate access for rescue teams.
What to Do Next
- Stay clear of traffic lanes when it is unsafe to move.
- Follow instructions from emergency personnel at the scene.
- Take photos of vehicle damage and surroundings if safe.
- Check traffic updates before resuming travel.
FAQ
Q: Why can injuries appear later after an accident?
A: Some injuries, including soft tissue damage or internal trauma, may not show symptoms immediately. It is important to monitor for pain or unusual symptoms in the hours after a crash.
Q: Why are freeway crashes especially dangerous?
A: Crashes on major highways often involve higher speeds and limited shoulder space, increasing the risk of serious injury and complicating emergency response efforts.
Q: Why might lanes stay closed after a crash?
A: Lanes may remain blocked while responders remove damaged vehicles, investigate the scene, and ensure the roadway is safe for other drivers.
