Doris Benjamin killed in two-vehicle crash on North Kershaw Street

Alleged impaired Buick driver crossed center line and hit Benjamin’s Dodge in Florence County

November 23, 2025 | Florence, SC

A tragic two-vehicle collision claimed the life of 57-year-old Doris Benjamin in Florence County on Nov. 23, when a suspected impaired driver veered into oncoming traffic.

Doris Benjamin, 57, died when a Buick driven by a suspected impaired driver veered into her lane on North Kershaw Street in Florence County and struck her Dodge.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded around 8 p.m. on North Kershaw Street, where a northbound 2010 Buick sedan crossed the center line and struck a southbound 2020 Dodge sedan head-on.

• Location: North Kershaw Street, Florence, South Carolina
• Date and Time: Nov. 23, 2025, approximately 8 p.m.
• Vehicles Involved: 2010 Buick sedan, northbound, and 2020 Dodge sedan, southbound
• Victim: Doris Benjamin, 57, driver of the Dodge, who succumbed to injuries at a local hospital
• Suspect: 21-year-old male from Dillon County, driver of the Buick, hospitalized, then booked on felony DUI causing death and drug possession charges

The South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Drunk driving remains a leading cause of fatal collisions, often preventable through responsible choices. Factors like impairment from alcohol or drugs can severely impair judgment and reaction times.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving fatalities occur every 39 minutes in the U.S., contributing to thousands of deaths annually.

An independent probe will examine elements such as the driver's blood-alcohol level to uncover additional contributing factors.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on navigating the aftermath of such incidents.

“In cases such as this, serving as an advocate can compassionately guide families through this difficult time, protecting their legal rights while ensuring impaired drivers face accountability for reckless behavior,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.

• Families may pursue wrongful death claims for losses like companionship, pain, and emotional distress.
• Civil actions often arise from unsafe driving practices, including DUI, speeding, or distraction.
• Consulting professionals early helps secure evidence and build strong cases.

“The overwhelming stress and grief following the loss of a loved one in a crash underscores the need for thorough investigations and support,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.

“When accidents stem from impaired, aggressive, or distracted driving, victims' families typically have grounds to seek civil remedies.”

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