Bryan M. Rodger Killed in Bonneau Motorcycle Accident
The 60-year-old rider died after a collision with a pickup truck near Church of God Road
Bryan M. Rodger, 60, of Bonneau, was killed in a motorcycle crash on Highway 17 Alternate near Church of God Road in Bonneau on Tuesday, according to the South Carolina State Patrol.
Paramedics and firefighters responded to the scene shortly before 7 a.m. after a southbound Ford pickup truck struck the 1985 Kawasaki as its rider attempted to make a turn. The driver of the pickup was not injured.
The motorcyclist, Rodger, was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries suffered in the collision.
Troopers and the Berkeley County Coroner’s Office are investigating the sequence of events that led to the fatal impact.
No charges have been announced.
Why did the pickup strike the turning motorcycle on Highway 17 Alternate?
Investigators will examine right-of-way rules, vehicle speeds, and sightlines along the southbound lanes to determine why the truck was unable to avoid the turning bike.
In motorcycle accidents such as this, crash reconstructionists often look at intersection dynamics and driver perception.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Motorcycle riders face inherent vulnerability because limited physical protection during vehicle impacts results in catastrophic injuries. Visibility failures and distracted driving commonly cause devastating roadway collisions."
"Following serious motorcycle crashes, legal counsel immediately coordinates with accident reconstruction specialists and preserves critical evidence including traffic cameras, witness statements, and vehicle data to establish liability and protect affected families seeking recovery," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
Data from the South Carolina Department of Public Safety shows that motorcycles accounted for more than 16% of all fatal crashes in the state between 2019 and 2023, highlighting the vulnerability of riders.
What legal options exist for Rodger's family?
The sudden loss of a family member leaves relatives facing unexpected funeral costs and emotional devastation. While police determine fault, legal practitioners who study motorcycle collisions note that families often have civil avenues available.
South Carolina wrongful death statute
Under S.C. Code § 15-51-10, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. South Carolina applies modified comparative fault (51% bar). The statute of limitations is 3 years.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and mental shock and suffering.
"Motorcycle riders lack the protective frame and structural protection of enclosed vehicles, making crashes universally catastrophic," said Stefano, of counsel at Bond Legal.
"Legal counsel immediately secures detailed inspection reports, scene photographs, and biomechanical analysis while negotiating insurance coverage for surviving family medical expenses and funeral costs," noted Formica, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.