Joshua Edward Gowan Injured in Spartanburg County Accident
The incident occurred around 5:13 a.m. on Highway 9 while Gowan was standing in the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Joshua Edward Gowan, 41, of Cowpens, died Thursday morning after an SUV hit him on Highway 9 in Spartanburg County, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol. The crash happened around 5:13 a.m. while Gowan was standing in the road.
A Nissan Rogue, traveling north, struck Gowan, troopers said.
Paramedics pronounced Gowan dead at the scene. The Spartanburg County Coroner's Office identified him.
The SCHP is investigating the crash. Authorities have not released details about what caused the crash.
Highway 9 is a major road in Spartanburg County. Early morning hours can present visibility challenges for drivers and pedestrians.
Investigators will examine the SUV, interview witnesses, and document the crash scene.
No charges have been filed. The SCHP will release more information as the investigation continues.
When pedestrian accidents occur on rural highways, crash reconstruction analysts emphasize the critical role visibility plays. Road conditions, lighting, and vehicle conspicuity are all factors that investigators review.
Stefano Formica, Of Counsel at Bond Legal, observed that "Having the proper resources is extremely important to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence. Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that must be fully considered. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has been injured by a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve."
An investigation will look into all details of the accident, including driver behavior, vehicle maintenance, and environmental elements. The South Carolina Highway Patrol will reconstruct the accident scene, considering factors such as speed, driver distraction, and adherence to traffic laws. This will help determine the exact sequence of events that led to Gowan being struck.
Pedestrians, though vulnerable, often have the right of way. Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal, noted that "A pedestrian accident can be a life-altering event, and it's crucial for investigators to leave no stone unturned in determining liability. The findings from the police investigation will heavily influence any potential personal injury claims."
For victims' families, the aftermath of being struck can be a long and challenging journey. Beyond medical treatment, the investigation's findings will be important for understanding accountability and legal options. The involvement of an attorney can ensure that all evidence is properly collected and preserved to protect the family's rights.
This incident highlights the need for continued vigilance by both drivers and pedestrians, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be limited. The community will be awaiting the outcome of the official investigation.
South Carolina follows a modified comparative fault (51% bar) system. The statute of limitations is 3 years.
Damages include economic and non-economic losses. When a pedestrian is killed, establishing fault often involves a thorough examination of police reports, witness statements, and traffic laws specific to the intersection or roadway, according to Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal.