Vehicle struck Salters in the roadway near Asheville Highway
March 22, 2026 | Spartanburg, SC
A tragic auto-pedestrian incident claimed the life of 55-year-old Hardy Lee Salters on Howard Street near Asheville Highway, according to the South Carolina Highway Patrol.
Hardy Salters, 55, died after being struck by a Hyundai Santa Fe on Howard Street near Asheville Highway in Spartanburg County.
What Happened in the Crash?
An investigation revealed that a Hyundai Santa Fe was heading westbound around 9:47 p.m. on March 22 when it struck Salters, who was in the roadway. He was pronounced dead at the scene by the Coroner’s Office. His residence details remain undisclosed at this time.
Key details include:
- Victim: Hardy Lee Salters, 55
- Location: Howard Street near Asheville Highway, Spartanburg County
- Vehicle Involved: Hyundai Santa Fe
- Time: Approximately 9:47 p.m.
- Agency: South Carolina Highway Patrol is leading the investigation
The Highway Patrol continues to examine the circumstances surrounding the collision.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities represent a growing concern across U.S. roadways, often linked to driver negligence, poor lighting, and insufficient crosswalks. Data from the Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) shows an 80% rise in such deaths from 2009 to 2023, far outpacing other traffic fatalities, which increased by just 13%.
Factor |
Description |
Impact on Pedestrian Safety (GHSA Data, 2009-2023) |
|---|
Reckless Driving |
Speeding or distraction behind the wheel |
Contributed to 40% of incidents |
Infrastructure Issues |
Lack of sidewalks or lighting |
Linked to 25% increase in urban areas |
Road Design |
Prioritizing vehicles over walkers |
Overall pedestrian deaths up 80% |
Nighttime Conditions |
Reduced visibility after dark |
75% of fatal crashes occur at night |
This table highlights critical contributors, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures.
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in pedestrian collisions to support affected families.
“In most instances, pedestrians possess the right of way when crossing an intersection or a street regardless of if they are in a marked crosswalk,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal.
Bond stressed that road conditions, signage, and lighting must be scrutinized to ensure justice.
Key takeaways:
- Independent legal reviews protect family rights in tragic cases.
- Factors like visibility and infrastructure play key roles in outcomes.
- Prompt action helps secure fair compensation for losses.
“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. The family of Hardy Lee Salters may be entitled to a wrongful death claim.
Formica explained that families can pursue damages for lost income, companionship, emotional distress, and funeral costs. He cautioned against hasty settlements pushed by insurers, advocating for strong representation.
Ongoing Investigation and Prevention
Authorities urge drivers to stay vigilant, especially in low-visibility areas. Newsline, the premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., maintains an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence.
Our rigorous standards ensure accurate reporting, with a Corrections Policy guaranteeing 24-hour reviews for any concerns.
For more on our process, visit our Editorial Policy.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
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Candice Bond, national legal analyst for Newsline, has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one needs help, she offers free consultations.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).