North Charleston DUI Driver Causes Four-Vehicle Crash — A Personal Injury Attorney's Take on Drunk Driving Liability

The Incident

On March 13, 2026, North Charleston police arrested Roger Anibal Cardona Lopez, age 26, following a multi-vehicle crash that left several cars damaged and multiple drivers shaken. Authorities allege that Cardona Lopez was driving under the influence when he caused the collision involving four vehicles. The incident unfolded on a busy roadway in North Charleston, disrupting traffic and creating a chaotic scene for those involved.

In addition to the DUI charge, Cardona Lopez faces accusations of failing to provide information and render aid—a critical responsibility under South Carolina law for drivers involved in accidents. He also lacked a valid driver’s license at the time of the crash, raising further questions about his ability to operate a vehicle legally and safely. The failure-to-render-aid charge underscores the seriousness of the situation, as it suggests that Cardona Lopez left the scene without assisting victims or taking accountability for his actions.

As a personal injury attorney, I am deeply troubled by incidents like this. Drunk driving is not just a reckless choice—it’s a dangerous act that endangers lives and property. My heart goes out to the individuals affected by this crash, and I hope they will find justice and healing in the aftermath of this traumatic event.

What South Carolina Law Says

South Carolina law takes drunk driving and failure to render aid very seriously, as evidenced by the statutes addressing these offenses. Driving under the influence (DUI) is governed by SC Code Ann. § 56-5-2930, which prohibits operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs to the extent that the driver’s faculties are materially and appreciably impaired. A first offense DUI carries penalties including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time.

The obligation to render aid is codified in SC Code Ann. § 56-5-1230. This statute requires drivers involved in accidents to stop at the scene, provide their information to others involved, and render reasonable assistance to anyone injured. Failure to comply can lead to criminal charges and civil liability, especially if the lack of aid exacerbates the harm caused.

South Carolina also addresses the issue of uninsured drivers under SC Code Ann. § 38-77-150, which mandates uninsured motorist coverage as part of every auto insurance policy. This provision ensures that victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers—like Roger Cardona Lopez—can still pursue compensation for their damages.

These laws matter because they establish accountability and protect victims. Courts in South Carolina consistently emphasize the importance of holding intoxicated and negligent drivers responsible for the harm they cause. In cases involving multi-vehicle crashes, the legal landscape can be complex, but the underlying principles of liability remain clear: those who act recklessly must answer for the consequences.

Your Rights and Options

If you or a loved one were involved in a crash like this, you have legal rights and options to pursue compensation and accountability.

• Seek immediate medical attention. Documenting injuries as soon as possible is critical for both your health and your legal case.
• Do not speak to the other party's insurer. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim or shift blame. Let your attorney handle communication.
• File a police report and gather evidence. Official documentation and photos from the scene are essential for proving liability and damages.
• Contact your insurance provider promptly. Notify them of the accident, but avoid making statements about fault or agreeing to settlements without legal advice.
• Consult an experienced personal injury attorney. Navigating DUI liability, uninsured motorist claims, and multi-vehicle accidents requires legal expertise to protect your interests.

What I Look For When Evaluating These Cases

When evaluating cases involving drunk driving and multi-vehicle accidents, I focus on gathering evidence that establishes liability and supports the claims of those harmed. Police reports are often a starting point, as they provide crucial details about the circumstances of the crash and any citations issued to the at-fault driver.

Witness statements are another key component. Eyewitness accounts can corroborate the sequence of events, the driver’s behavior, and the extent of the damage. In cases involving intoxication, I also examine breathalyzer results, field sobriety tests, and toxicology reports to confirm the level of impairment.

Finally, I work closely with clients to document their injuries and losses. Medical records, repair estimates, and proof of lost wages are all vital for building a strong case. My goal is to ensure that every aspect of the harm suffered—physical, financial, and emotional—is accounted for in pursuing justice.

How Opposing Parties Will Fight Back

In cases like this, opposing parties often employ aggressive strategies to avoid liability. Insurance companies may argue that the victims contributed to the accident or exaggerate the extent of their injuries. Under South Carolina’s modified comparative negligence standard (SC Code Ann. § 15-38-15), a plaintiff’s recovery can be reduced if they are found partially at fault, and they may be barred from recovery entirely if their fault exceeds 50%. This makes it essential to counter any claims that shift blame unfairly.

Defense attorneys may also challenge the evidence of intoxication, particularly if procedural errors occurred during the arrest or testing process. They might argue that other factors, such as weather conditions or mechanical issues, contributed to the crash. These tactics are designed to create doubt and weaken the plaintiff’s case.

As an attorney, I anticipate these strategies and prepare accordingly. By building a thorough, evidence-backed case, I aim to ensure that victims receive the compensation and justice they deserve despite the challenges posed by opposing parties.

Related Practice Areas at Traywick Law Offices

This case highlights several practice areas that are central to my work at Traywick Law Offices. Car accident cases often involve complex questions of liability, especially when multiple vehicles and uninsured drivers are involved. DUI injury claims require a deep understanding of South Carolina’s drunk driving laws and the ability to hold intoxicated drivers accountable.

Uninsured motorist claims are another critical area, as victims of accidents caused by uninsured drivers need to navigate their own insurance policies to recover damages. If you or someone you love has been affected by a crash like this, I invite you to contact me for a free consultation. Together, we can explore your options and work toward justice.