Berkeley County, SC – A Berkeley County Sheriff’s deputy was hospitalized Monday after being struck by a vehicle while working a traffic detail along Interstate 26, according to the sheriff’s office.
The crash occurred earlier in the day near a Banks Construction work zone on I-26. Officials said the deputy was hit while managing traffic and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The deputy’s injuries are not believed to be life-threatening, and recovery is expected.
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the driver, identified as Jose Maria Zuniga, was arrested and faces multiple charges. Authorities emphasized that the incident was entirely preventable under South Carolina’s “Move Over Law,” which requires drivers to shift lanes or slow down significantly when approaching emergency or construction vehicles stopped on the roadside with flashing lights.
“This incident is a sobering reminder: pay attention, move over, and slow down,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement. “A few seconds of caution could save someone’s life.”
Officials stressed that the law is designed to protect not only law enforcement, but also road crews, tow truck operators, and other emergency responders.
The sheriff’s office said this crash highlights the need for drivers to follow roadway safety laws to prevent future tragedies.
