South Carolina Highway Deaths Doubled Over Christmas Holiday

South Carolina authorities say winter weather contributed to twice as many deaths on the state’s roadways over Christmas weekend this year.

Multiple media outlets report that 13 people were killed on state roads and highways during the 78-hour Christmas weekend this year. That’s compared to just six deaths during that period in 2009.

But the Highway Patrol said the total number of road deaths in 2010 is still down from last year.

Troopers say total traffic fatalities are down almost 15 percent in 2010. So far this year, 768 people have died on state roads, compared to 888 in 2009.

Authorities are also encouraging vigilance during New Year’s Eve festivities. Last year, three people were killed over New Year’s in South Carolina.