Kathryn Bhirdo Dies in North Myrtle Beach DUI Accident

Q: How do investigators reconstruct multi-vehicle DUI crashes?

When investigating a multi-vehicle DUI crash, authorities examine several key elements. Investigators will review police reports, toxicology results, and witness statements. They will also analyze damage to the vehicles involved and the crash scene itself to determine the sequence of events and the precise point of impact. Such an investigation is designed to uncover all cause, including road conditions, vehicle defects, and driver behavior.

Q: What are the legal implications for John Lawson Maness?

John Lawson Maness faces felony charges for driving under the use with a death, carrying significant legal consequences. The criminal case proceeds independently of any civil actions the Bhirdo family may pursue. However, a conviction in criminal court could strengthen a civil claim for wrongful death.

Kathryn Bhirdo killed in multi-vehicle accident on Highway 22, North Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

The crash on Highway 22 involved a Jeep Wrangler that hit stopped traffic, according to warrants.

Kathryn Bhirdo, 65, of North Myrtle Beach, was killed in a four-vehicle crash on Highway 22 near mile-marker 35 in Horry County, South Carolina, on Feb. 17, according to an arrest warrant.

John Lawson Maness, 69, of Myrtle Beach, was charged with felony driving under the influence in connection with the fatal collision. The 2018 Jeep Wrangler Maness was driving struck a 2002 Suzuki Vitara, which then hit a 2019 Nissan Versa. The Versa then collided with a 2016 Chevrolet Silverado.

The crash caused the Wrangler to overturn. Officers later found a bottle of liquor with a broken seal near Maness's vehicle, which Maness admitted was his. Maness also told police he had consumed alcohol earlier in the day. Maness was receiving treatment for his injuries at an area hospital. An arrest warrant showed his blood alcohol content was 0.082.

He is being held in the J. Reuben Long Detention Center on a $50,000 bond.

The multi-vehicle collision that killed Bhirdo on Highway 22 highlights the severe risks associated with impaired driving. Even with vehicles stopped in traffic, the actions of one impaired driver can trigger a chain reaction with tragic consequences. Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal, noted, "In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the victim’s family must ensure that evidence is reviewed efficiently."

How do investigators reconstruct multi-vehicle DUI crashes?

What are the legal implications for John Lawson Maness?

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.