location-pinSouth Carolina

Lauren Taylor Police Pursuit Attorney

Do You Have a Case?

Free Consultation. No Obligation. Completely Confidential

shield

We guarantee 100% privacy. Your information will NOT be shared.

High-speed chase attorney in Greenville, SC

If you've seen any action movies from the 80's or 90's, chances are you've seen fictionalized police chases. On the big screen, they often involve big, fiery explosions and speeding cars, which inevitably screech through intersections and cause havoc before the bad guy is caught and the damage is forgotten. And while these fake high-speed pursuits are fun to watch from the comfort of a movie theater, in real life, police chases can be devastating. That's true not only for the people involved in the chase but for the innocent bystanders whose lives change as a result. Often, these innocent bystanders are doing nothing more than minding their business. And then, in the blink of an eye, their life in the Palmetto State is changed forever.

Unfortunately, South Carolina is one of the leading states in terms of police crash fatalities, with 59 drivers killed in vehicle crashes during police pursuits between 2014 and 2018. This alarming statistic highlights the serious risk that being involved in a police chase poses to drivers. While police chases can sometimes be necessary, they should always be handled with extreme caution.

It is essential that law enforcement officers operate their vehicles with due regard for the safety of all persons, particularly when in pursuit and traveling at excessive speeds, as required by South Carolina law. If an uninvolved driver or pedestrian is injured as a result of a police chase, they have the right to seek just compensation for their losses through an insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit. It's important to remember that police chases are a threat to road users, even if they are sometimes necessary. If you or a loved one has been injured in a police pursuit, it's time to contact a high-speed chase attorney Near Me Greenville, SC, from Lauren Taylor Law.

The First Steps Toward Compensation Begins at Lauren Taylor Law

It's a well-known fact that high-speed police pursuits and chases can pose a significant threat to bystanders, as evidenced by numerous documented incidents across the country. Shockingly, over one-third of chase-related fatalities involve innocent individuals who happen to be near the scene. They're not even involved in the chase.

To hold someone accountable for such tragedies, restrictions on police pursuits have been put in place by nearly every state, city, and local jurisdiction, including South Carolina. Nonetheless, high-speed chases continue to occur, and innocent bystanders continue to suffer injuries and fatalities as a result. If you find yourself in such a situation, a skilled police pursuit attorney Near Me Greenville, SC, can help investigate the circumstances of your crash and determine who is responsible for your financial recovery.

Parties that may be responsible for your compensation may include the following

  • Law Enforcement Officers
  • Fleeing Suspects
  • A Government Entity Involved in the High-Speed Chase
  • County or City Officials in South Carolina
  • A Different Third-Party

Why Choose Lauren Taylor Law?

Unlike many law firms in South Carolina, at Lauren Taylor Law, our seasoned high-speed police chase lawyers focus on our clients first, and work tirelessly to fight for your or your loved one's rights and compensation. If you have been injured or you have lost a relative due to injuries sustained in a police pursuit, we're here to help with every aspect of your lawsuit, including:

  • Liability Determination
  • Interviewing Doctors and Documenting Injuries
  • Filling Out & Filing Paperwork
  • Determining Damage Amounts
  • Collecting Evidence from the Police Chase
  • Litigation & Courtroom Appearances
  • Fearless Negotiation

The simple truth is that obtaining compensation for your injuries and preparing for litigation is a complex process. Your high-speed chase lawyer from Lauren Taylor Law will help explain the next steps in your case and walk you through how to proceed next. That way, you can move forward with your life as soon as possible. When it's time to fight for the compensation you rightly deserve, our team is here to help lead the charge.

Police Pursuit Attorney Greenville, SC

The Effects of South Carolina Police Chase Accidents

Based on data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 2.5 million emergency room visits in the United States were caused by car accidents in 2012. Many of these accidents were due to speeding. When you combine speeding with a driver who is attempting to evade police and officers who are in pursuit, the likelihood of an accident increases significantly.

Accidents can occur in high-speed police chases for many reasons. Some of the most common include the following

Abbeville Lawyer Greenville, SC

Worn-Out Car Parts

When evading the police, vehicles are subjected to tremendous stress, which can lead to the wear and tear of different components. For instance, tires often fail due to overheating and the intense pressure they are subjected to during a chase. When a tire blows on the highway while driving at high speeds, crashes are likely.

Legal Representation Greenville, SC

Poor Reaction Times

At high speeds, drivers have less time to react, which can leave them unable to respond to other drivers on the road and keep everyone safe. Unfortunately, accidents are likely to occur when one of the drivers in a police pursuit makes a mistake.

Pursuit Case Greenville, SC

Driving Aggressively

Drivers who exhibit aggressive behavior on the road, such as abruptly cutting off other vehicles or weaving between lanes excessively, are at an increased risk of causing an accident. This can occur due to a loss of control during maneuvers or misjudging the distance between cars, resulting in a collision. Unfortunately, some drivers intentionally cause these accidents as a means of eluding or obstructing law enforcement.

Police officers and departments often restrict pursuits to unpopulated areas or terminate them prematurely to safeguard pedestrians, bystanders, and other drivers. The risk of causing an accident is simply too high to pursue most fleeing drivers effectively.

Police Misconduct Greenville, SC

Short-Term Effects of High-Speed Chase Accidents

Accidents caused by police chases can result in severe injuries and significant expenses in the short term. Emergency medical care and ongoing treatment might be necessary to address your injuries, and the amount of assistance you receive from your insurance will depend on your coverage. It is crucial to prioritize your health by seeking proper care to avoid developing more serious or life-threatening conditions.

Additionally, dealing with car repairs can be a challenge, and your insurance company may only offer the depreciated value of your vehicle, which might not be enough to pay off the car and purchase a new one. Dealing with these issues can be life-changing, which is just one reason why police pursuit accident victims seek compensation.

Long-Term Effects of High-Speed Chase Accidents

Car accidents caused by police chases can have serious and long-lasting effects. From financial debt to physical pain and emotional trauma, the impacts can be devastating. Severe injuries can also result in extended time away from work, causing further financial strain. In some cases, injuries can even lead to permanent disability, making it difficult to return to work at all. However, seeking compensation through a lawsuit can help alleviate the financial burden and provide a sense of closure. That's why having a trustworthy high-speed chase attorney Near Me Greenville, SC, to oversee your case is so important.

Legal Defense Greenville, SC

Who is Liable in South Carolina Police Chases?

The answer to this question is not always black and white and often involves a great deal of investigation and research. Generally speaking, law enforcement agencies, such as police departments, sheriff's offices, and highway patrols, have specific policies and procedures in place to govern the initiation and termination of vehicle pursuits.

Abbeville Law Firm Greenville, SC
  • Pursuits may only be undertaken if the need to apprehend a suspect is immediate and outweighs the potential danger posed to the public by the pursuit. Notably, many agencies limit police chases to instances where the fleeing driver has been involved in a violent felony. Furthermore, all pursuits must be monitored by a supervisor who is responsible for terminating the pursuit if it becomes unsafe.
  • Unfortunately, inadequate police pursuit training can result in injuries or fatalities of uninvolved motorists. If you or someone you know has been injured during a police chase, it's time to hire a trusted police pursuit attorney Near Me Greenville, SC. A seasoned high-speed chase accident attorney can review your case and, if appropriate, file a wrongful death claim on your behalf.
Civil Rights Greenville, SC

Differences Between First and Third-Party Police Pursuits

When seeking a high-speed chase lawsuit, it's important to determine whether the injured party was a "First Party" participant actively fleeing the police or a completely innocent "Third Party" bystander or motorist. While some lawyers may not take on first-party cases, there may be rare exceptions when the conduct of law enforcement is shockingly egregious.

Typically, third-party cases have strong grounds for lawsuits, but general negligence principles will still play a role in South Carolina police pursuit cases. Furthermore, third-party cases may include passengers in the suspect's vehicle, especially if they are minors and were not involved in any illegal activity that prompted the police pursuit.

Legal Justice Greenville, SC

Understanding South Carolina's Tort Claims Act

When pursuing a police pursuit lawsuit in South Carolina, it is crucial to understand the state's Tort Claims Act. This law enables the government and its subdivisions to be held accountable for their actions, just like any other private person, but with certain exceptions. To navigate this complex legal terrain, it is advisable to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney.

The Tort Claims Act governs the circumstances under which the police agency may be held liable and sets limits on potential recovery, with a cap of $300,000 per claim against a governmental entity. It is important to note that additional claims under federal law and constitutional rights violations may also be pursued.

Answer These Questions if You're Thinking About a Police Chase Lawsuit

While determining liability in a high-speed chase case is a nuanced task, you shouldn't be burdened with such tasks, especially if you're an innocent victim. At Lauren Taylor Law, we believe it's our job to analyze the situation and understand the law, not yours. However, when you reach out to our office for representation, it's imperative we find out what happened and gather details to see if your case is valid.

To do so, we'll ask some common questions, which may include one or more of the following

Involvement

What Level of Involvement Did You Have?

One of the key pieces of information our police pursuit attorneys require is whether you were directly involved in the chase as the first party or if you were an innocent bystander or passenger as a third party. If you were the person fleeing from the police and sustained injuries in a crash, it's unlikely that you would have a valid claim against the officer. However, if you were an innocent bystander or motorist who was hit during the chase, you may have grounds for a viable case. This is especially true for innocent passengers, particularly children, who were in the vehicle being pursued and may have a claim against the officer involved.

Police

Do Any Police Officers Involved Have Immunity?

When it comes to lawsuits involving gross negligence and recklessness, governmental entities in South Carolina do not have absolute immunity under the Tort Claims Act. While this means an officer can be sued for damages in certain situations, there are exceptions to the waiver of immunity, and lawsuits against government entities can be subjected to a monetary cap. To ensure the best possible outcome in your case, it's crucial to work with a knowledgeable high-speed chase attorney Near Me Greenville, SC, who knows how to navigate relevant laws.

Laws

Did You Break Any Local Traffic Laws?

When a police car is in pursuit with its lights and sirens on, it's crucial to pull over to the side of the road or stop at the intersection. Failure to do so could result in a crash, and in such a case, you may be held responsible for the accident and wouldn't have a case against the officer driving.

Chase

Who Started the High-Speed Chase?

Determining whether the officer violated their department's policies during a high-speed pursuit is a crucial factor in these cases. Pursuits following routine traffic stops, non-violent property offenses, and unconfirmed suspicions are often prohibited in many municipalities. However, if the officer who hit you was pursuing a violent criminal and adhering to departmental policies, it may be challenging to build a case against them.

Pursuit

In What Part of Town Did the Police Pursuit Happen?

Many law enforcement agencies in South Carolina have strict regulations in place when it comes to the location and speed of police chases. Typically, speeding through busy urban areas is prohibited, but pursuing a suspect at high speeds on a highway or in a remote region may be deemed appropriate.

The Compensation Your Police Pursuit Attorney in Greenville, SC, May Recover

Are you curious about what type of compensation you may qualify for if you're the victim of a high-speed chase in South Carolina?? As you probably guessed, financial compensation varies from case to case, as each injury victim and the circumstances of their situation are unique.

Depending on the details of your police pursuit case, you may qualify for one or more of the following types of compensation

  • Current Wages Lost
  • Diminished Earning Capacity in the Future
  • Pain and Suffering
  • Current and Future Medical Expenses and Bills
  • Cost of Living with Disfigurement or Disability
  • Cost of Therapy or Rehab Relating to Your Injuries
  • Cost of Prescription Medications
  • Out-of-Pocket Purchases Like Medical Devices
  • Short and Long-Term Disability
  • Permanent or Temporary Disability
Pursuit Attorney Greenville, SC

Remember - to determine the full extent of the compensation you deserve, it's crucial that you reach out to a trusted police chase attorney, like those you'll find at Lauren Taylor Law. Working with a pro is the best route to take if you're looking to receive the maximum amount of money you deserve.

What Clients Say About Us

Police Pursuit Attorney Greenville, SC

Fighting for Your Right to High-Speed Chase Compensation in South Carolina

In the end, a police pursuit case will ultimately be decided by a Jury unless a settlement is reached. Jurors will be expected to apply negligence principles and carefully review the policies and procedures of any police force accused of wrongdoing. Additionally, jurors may scrutinize the training and resources provided to on-duty officers, as a lack of proper training can contribute to officers wrongly initiating high-speed chases.

Thankfully, if you or a loved one has been injured as a result of a police chase in South Carolina, a high-speed chase attorney Near Me Greenville, SC, can help. Our team of police pursuit lawyers at Lauren Taylor Law has the expertise and resources necessary to investigate your case, no matter how complex. Don't hesitate to contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step towards justice.

Latest News Near Me Greenville, SC

What channel is Clemson football vs South Carolina on today? Time, TV schedule to watch Week 14 game

Clemson football can end a trying 2025 season on a positive note in the annual rivalry game against South Carolina on Nov. 29 in Columbia.The Tigers (6-5, 4-4 ACC) is bowl eligible after last week's win against Furman and can guarantee a record above .500 with a victory over the Gamecocks.South Carolina (4-7, 1-7 SEC) is playing only for the pride of winning in this rivalry for the second straight year and for the first time in Williams-Brice Stadium since 2013.Here's how to watch the Clemson football vs. South Carolina ...

Clemson football can end a trying 2025 season on a positive note in the annual rivalry game against South Carolina on Nov. 29 in Columbia.

The Tigers (6-5, 4-4 ACC) is bowl eligible after last week's win against Furman and can guarantee a record above .500 with a victory over the Gamecocks.

South Carolina (4-7, 1-7 SEC) is playing only for the pride of winning in this rivalry for the second straight year and for the first time in Williams-Brice Stadium since 2013.

Here's how to watch the Clemson football vs. South Carolina game today, including time, TV schedule and streaming information:

Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!

What channel is Clemson football vs. South Carolina on today?

Clemson vs. South Carolina will broadcast nationally on the SEC Network in Week 14 of the 2025 college football season. Taylor Zarzour and Matt Stinchcomb will call the game from the booth at Williams-Brice Stadium, with Alyssa Lang reporting from the field. Streaming options for the game include FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.

Why Clemson's Tom Allen has been game planning for LaNorris Sellers since he was hired

Clemson football vs. South Carolina time today

The Clemson football vs. South Carolina game starts at 12 p.m. ET on Nov. 29 from Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.

Clemson football vs. South Carolina predictions, picks, odds

Greenville News Clemson reporter Derrian Carter's prediction: Clemson 20, South Carolina 17

The last two games between these two programs have been low scoring, and this year's game will be the same. Both defenses will dominate throughout the game, but a game-winning drive by Klubnik will propel the Tigers to their fourth straight win.

South Carolina's strength of schedule prepare them well for high-stake matchups and even though Clemson is on a win-streak, the Gamecocks play a complete game to get win No. 5, feeding off the energy Mike Furrey brings to the offense.

Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday, Nov. 28

Clemson football schedule 2025

Record: 6-5, 4-4 ACC

South Carolina football schedule 2025

Record: 4-7, 1-7 SEC

Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.

A different kind of data center: DartPoints expanding in Greenville, Columbia to meet AI needs

Data center operator DartPoints plans to up the capacity of its Greenville center by 400%.But unlike the super centers popping up around the Palmetto State, each gobbling upwards of 100 megawatts of power, DartPoints’ growth is on a much smaller scale — 12.5 megawatts, up from a 2.5-megawatt starting point.The company pledged this month to invest $125 million in the expansion of its Greenville location, adding 88,000 square feet to the facility.At the heart of the company’s expansion: artificial intelli...

Data center operator DartPoints plans to up the capacity of its Greenville center by 400%.

But unlike the super centers popping up around the Palmetto State, each gobbling upwards of 100 megawatts of power, DartPoints’ growth is on a much smaller scale — 12.5 megawatts, up from a 2.5-megawatt starting point.

The company pledged this month to invest $125 million in the expansion of its Greenville location, adding 88,000 square feet to the facility.

At the heart of the company’s expansion: artificial intelligence.

DartPoints’ customers are now demanding three times the capacity and computing power compared to just a year or so ago, CEO Scott Willis told the SC Daily Gazette.

“AI potentially has the opportunity to change their business in a very dramatic way. We’ve got to come along with that,” he said.

Companies are turning to AI bots to run customer care chats. Robots in manufacturing are becoming more autonomous. And from a health care perspective, hospital systems are offering more computer-heavy remote services, with wearable devices that track vitals like heart rate and blood sugar, Willis said.

So expanding is essential, he said, if DartPoints wants its centers to remain relevant over the next five years.

“It is no longer a ‘nice to have.’ It’s a requirement, on our part, to understand that change, anticipate that change,” Willis said.

More than a decade in SC

DartPoints has operated data centers in South Carolina for more than a decade. With locations in Columbia, Spartanburg and Charleston, as well as Greenville, the state is the Dallas-headquartered company’s largest market.

To finance its expansion in South Carolina, as well as in Ohio and Indiana, DartPoints secured a $250 million investment from a pair of partners earlier this year.

“South Carolina is a great business environment,” Willis said. “It’s a great state, positioned within the Southeast. It’s growing massively in terms of attracting businesses, and we want to participate in that.”

But consumer groups and politicians have pushed back against the proliferation of data centers over the past couple years. Most of that ire is aimed at so-called hyperscale centers, owned and operated by tech giants such as Google and Meta.

These windowless centers, which house rows of servers, are among the largest drivers of growing power needs in the state, generating vast demand for electricity on top of the needs of an ever-growing manufacturing and population base.

Willis is quick to point out not all data centers are the same.

For starters, he said, utilities already have the kind of capacity on their system that DartPoints requires.

“We are a non-invasive partner inside the state,” Willis said. “We don’t disrupt the demand of the grid. We’re not asking Duke (Energy) or other utilities to invest a significant amount of money that could result in price increases for the overall citizens of the state of South Carolina.”

A different kind of customer

DartPoints also tends to serve customers that require a bit more privacy and control over their IT systems.

The company specializes in private, dedicated servers that its customers can access remotely, with guarantees that the computing power will always be available for that customer’s use. Turning to Google or Microsoft or Amazon Web Services, businesses share space on those companies’ servers, using what’s known as a public cloud system, Willis said.

If a DartPoints customer wants even more control, they can choose to have their own servers caged within a DartPoints facility that only that company’s employees have access to. DartPoints simply supplies the space and power it takes to operate and cool the equipment.

Before DartPoints moved into the state, Willis said, companies had to turn to major providers in big cities, such as Atlanta, Charlotte or Nashville or major computing hubs in northern Virginia, for these serices.

Now, companies have a local option that often comes at a lower cost because they don’t have to lay down lines of fiber to get connected to a distant center. The computing speeds are also faster because companies don’t have to wait for their data to travel longer distances over the network, a major bonus as more are turning to artificial intelligence.

In all, DartPoints has about 300 customers that use its four South Carolina data centers, Willis told legislators last September. Those companies collectively generate $60 billion in revenue within the state and employ about 140,000 people.

DartPoints’ customer base mirrors the state’s major economic sectors — manufacturing, health care, some financial institutions and state and local government, as well as higher education.

“DartPoints’ growth in Greenville shows how innovation and infrastructure investment go hand in hand,” Gov. Henry McMaster said in a statement. “This project reinforces South Carolina’s position as a destination for technology-driven business and demonstrates how our state can support advanced digital operations with the power, talent and collaboration they require to thrive.”

Construction is underway and the additional space is expected to be operational in July 2027.

The company does not publicize how many people it employs in South Carolina but pledged 10 new jobs as part of the expansion.

After Greenville, Willis said, DartPoints will turn its attention to growing its Columbia center, located within the South Carolina Research Authority Innovation Center. Details on that expansion are forthcoming, he said.

What channel is South Carolina football vs Coastal Carolina on today? Time, TV schedule to watch Week 13 game

South Carolina football returns home to face Coastal Carolina on Nov. 22 at Williams-Brice Stadium.The Gamecocks (3-7, 1-7 SEC) blew a 27-point halftime lead in a 31-30 loss at Texas A&M to erase any chance at six wins and a bowl berth.Coastal Carolina (6-4, 5-2 Sun Belt) lost out on a possible Sun Belt East division title game with James Madison next week after losing 45-40 to Georgia Southern last week.Here's how to watch the South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina game today, including time, TV schedule and s...

South Carolina football returns home to face Coastal Carolina on Nov. 22 at Williams-Brice Stadium.

The Gamecocks (3-7, 1-7 SEC) blew a 27-point halftime lead in a 31-30 loss at Texas A&M to erase any chance at six wins and a bowl berth.

Coastal Carolina (6-4, 5-2 Sun Belt) lost out on a possible Sun Belt East division title game with James Madison next week after losing 45-40 to Georgia Southern last week.

Here's how to watch the South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina game today, including time, TV schedule and streaming information:

What channel is South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina on today?

Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!

Coastal Carolina vs. South Carolina will broadcast nationally on SEC Network in Week 13 of the 2025 college football season. Dave Neal and Fozzy Whittaker will call the game from the booth at Williams-Brice Stadium, with Morgan Uber reporting from the sidelines. Streaming options for the game include FUBO, which offers a free trial to new subscribers.

South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina time today

The South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina game starts at 4:15 p.m. ET Saturday from Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.

South Carolina football vs. Coastal Carolina predictions, picks, odds

Greenville News reporter Lulu Kesin's prediction: South Carolina 38, Coastal Carolina 17

The players made it clear after the Texas A&M loss that there's still games to win and plays to make even if a bowl game is out of the picture. That said, they learned many times this season all that matters is who has more points at the end of the game, and it should be the Gamecocks.

Odds courtesy of BetMGM as of Friday, Nov. 21

South Carolina football schedule 2025

Record: 3-7, 1-7 SEC

Our team of savvy editors independently handpicks all recommendations. If you purchase through our links, the USA Today Network may earn a commission. Prices were accurate at the time of publication but may change.

Greenville County sheriff speaks on ICE rumors

GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. —Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis is speaking about recent rumors surrounding the presence of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the Upstate."We're ready for those conversations. We have talks with our federal partners. We don't have any reason to believe at all that they won't come here. I can tell you that. But we don't know when. We don't know how that will take place," the sheriff said in a Friday episode of his "Roll Call" pod...

GREENVILLE COUNTY, S.C. —

Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis is speaking about recent rumors surrounding the presence of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in the Upstate.

"We're ready for those conversations. We have talks with our federal partners. We don't have any reason to believe at all that they won't come here. I can tell you that. But we don't know when. We don't know how that will take place," the sheriff said in a Friday episode of his "Roll Call" podcast.

He said South Carolina has more than 70,000 undocumented immigrants.

"That's the best number we can come up with. Nobody has the resources to start pulling people off the street and putting them in a detention facility and calling ICE," Lewis said.

During his "Roll Call" podcast, the sheriff said his office is part of the 287 G program, meaning it will partner with federal officials, but wouldn't be partaking in making immigration-specific arrests.

"Are you going to see Greenville County sheriff's deputies going into schools or businesses or homes and just doing a massive round-up?" asked co-host Carrie Weimer. "No, that is not happening," he responded.

As for people seeing immigration service vehicles in the upstate, Lewis said that's nothing new.

"We have an immigration office here in Greer, which is between Greenville in Spartanburg. We've had agents here for many, many years," he said.

He also advises the public should carry documentation with them, confirming immigration status, or proof of the process.

"If I were in that situation and everything that was going on in this country, I would absolutely have some documentation. 'I'm in the process of going through the citizenship program and where I am in that process," he said, "These are verified gang members. These are not people who overstayed their visa. These are not people who are here on a work visa or education visa. That's not who they're going after."

Anyone with additional questions is encouraged to reach out to the sheriff's office via email at SheriffHobart@gmail.com.

Will it be cold in South Carolina for Thanksgiving? Weather outlook

If you plan to travel for Thanksgiving over the weekend or early next week, be sure to pack an umbrella and an extra sweater just in case.South Carolina and much of the East Coast are bracing for a storm system moving northeast, bringing mild temperatures and possible rain as far south as the Carolinas."A storm will impact much of the eastern two-thirds of the United States during the busiest travel times ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday as millions hit the highways and head for the airports," said AccuWeather meteor...

If you plan to travel for Thanksgiving over the weekend or early next week, be sure to pack an umbrella and an extra sweater just in case.

South Carolina and much of the East Coast are bracing for a storm system moving northeast, bringing mild temperatures and possible rain as far south as the Carolinas.

"A storm will impact much of the eastern two-thirds of the United States during the busiest travel times ahead of the Thanksgiving holiday as millions hit the highways and head for the airports," said AccuWeather meteorologist Alex Sosnowski.

The latest forecast shows a pattern change from the beginning of November, with the eastern United States expected to see milder temperatures at the end of the month.

"Following a warm start to November in the West and a cold start in the East, a significant pattern change is likely later in the month and into early December," the Climate Prediction Center wrote. "During Thanksgiving week, a colder pattern is likely for the West and the Northern Plains while milder air overspreads the East."

Here's a look at what to expect from South Carolina's weather and whether it could impede holiday travel.

What will the weather be like for Thanksgiving in South Carolina?

Predictions for Thanksgiving week have Upstate South Carolina on the edge of storms expected to impact travel for the holiday.

The National Weather Service forecast on Nov. 21 has rain moving into the Greenville and Upstate area starting on Friday night, Nov. 21, and continuing into Saturday, Nov. 22, but chances are it will be small showers. Moving into the holiday week, people could see even more rain showers on Nov. 25 and 26, with it clearing out for Thanksgiving Day.

The Upstate could see cooler-than-normal temperatures starting on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27, with highs expected to reach the high 50s, but it will be sunny, according to the National Weather Service.

Could there be travel delays on Thanksgiving?

If you plan to fly or drive a long distance, you may encounter travel delays.

The storm system is expected to hit a large swath of the United States, causing delays due to thunderstorms in the South. If you are headed further north, beware, there could be snow. Here's the latest:

By Wednesday, Nov. 26, "it seems plausible that thunderstorms could impact travel through Atlanta or Florida," said Houston-based meteorologist Matt Lanza on his blog "The Eyewall." "Winds could impact flights in Chicago and Minneapolis," he said.

By Wednesday, Nov. 26, "the storm will be losing some of its intensity and moisture as it travels from the central states to the Northeast, but given the travel volume, even a few hours of rain can create significant problems on the roads and runways from Washington, D.C., to Philadelphia, New York City and Boston," noted AccuWeather meteorologist Paul Pastelok in an online forecast.

You may be entitled to a refund. Here's what to know

Will a polar vortex impact South Carolina? Could it snow?

We are getting closer to the months when the polar vortex starts to stir, bringing cold temperatures to the South. But the stormy weather and slightly cooler temperatures we expect to see ahead of Thanksgiving Day aren't part of it.

The polar vortex is not a synonym for "cold snap," according to the Polar Vortex Blog at Climate.gov, and it’s not the only weather pattern to blame for blasts of cold air.

What is a polar vortex?

The polar vortex is a gigantic, circular area of cold air high up in the atmosphere that usually spins over the North Pole.

It's a normal pattern that's stronger in the winter and usually keeps the coldest weather bottled up near the North Pole when it is "strong." If the polar vortex weakens or even splits, frigid air pushes southward toward the U.S.

What's the difference between an Arctic air mass and the polar vortex?

Arctic air masses originate over the Arctic or Antarctic regions and are very cold. They invade lower latitudes at irregular intervals, according to the weather service.

This arctic air tends to be colder than polar air.

The polar vortex is a large area of low-pressure and cold air surrounding both of the Earth’s poles, according to the weather service. It always exists near the poles.

What are the chances of snow in South Carolina for winter 2025?

Slim.

On average, South Carolina sees around 4 inches of snow per year, according to data from the National Weather Service. But for the 2025-26 winter, the predicted above-average temperatures could keep the white stuff at bay.

While the weather agency makes these predictions every year, they are the most likely scenario for weather patterns. People should always check local forecasts for the most up-to-date weather.

The weather service's outlook for precipitation shows parts of the Upstate have a slightly below-average chance of winter precipitation, and as you head further south and east, the chance of precipitation becomes slimmer.

When is the first day of winter 2025?

The first day of winter is Dec. 21, 2025, at 10:03 a.m., according to the Old Farmer's Almanac.

Joyce Orlando is the Carolina Connect Editor and covers trending topics in North and South Carolina.

Nina Tran and USA TODAY contributed to this report.

Disclaimer:

This website publishes news articles that contain copyrighted material whose use has not been specifically authorized by the copyright owner. The non-commercial use of these news articles for the purposes of local news reporting constitutes "Fair Use" of the copyrighted materials as provided for in Section 107 of the US Copyright Law.
Abbeville Lawyer Greenville, SC

Service Areas