Columbia, South Carolina – The period between Dec. 26 and Jan. 2 consistently ranks as one of the most dangerous travel windows of winter in South Carolina, particularly across the Columbia metro area and major highway corridors, according to transportation safety trends and seasonal driving patterns.
State transportation officials say crash risk often increases after Christmas even when traffic volumes appear lighter. The days following Dec. 25 combine return travel, driver fatigue, rapidly changing winter conditions, and uneven traffic patterns, creating hazards that can catch drivers off guard.
While South Carolina sees less snow and ice than states farther north, overnight refreeze remains a major concern. Mild daytime temperatures followed by sharp nighttime cooling can turn leftover moisture into black ice, especially on bridges, overpasses, and elevated roadways. This risk is highest along Interstates 20, 26, 77, and U.S. Route 378 in and around Columbia.
Post-holiday fatigue also plays a significant role. Drivers returning from family gatherings or long-distance holiday trips often resume normal routines with less sleep. Reduced alertness can slow reaction times and impair judgment, particularly during early morning and evening travel.
Traffic patterns during the post-Christmas period can be unpredictable. While some residents remain on holiday break, others return to work, leading to sudden congestion and inconsistent speeds across urban roads and rural highways. The mix of commuter traffic and through-travel moving across the Southeast further increases crash risk.
Emergency responders report that many post-Christmas crashes in South Carolina involve single vehicles, often due to speed, distraction, or loss of control on slick pavement rather than heavy traffic.
Officials urge drivers to treat the Dec. 26–Jan. 2 stretch with the same caution as major holiday travel days. Slowing down, allowing extra time, and staying alert on familiar routes can significantly reduce risk as South Carolina heads into the new year.
