Date: September 23, 2025
Location: Interstate 85, Oconee County, South Carolina (near Georgia state line)
📍 Incident Overview
On the morning of September 23, 2025, a tragic multi-vehicle collision occurred on southbound Interstate 85 near mile marker 2 in Oconee County, South Carolina. The crash involved four vehicles and a tractor-trailer, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The incident led to significant traffic disruptions, with all southbound lanes blocked until approximately 1:30 p.m. (WYFF)
🚚 Sequence of Events
According to the South Carolina Highway Patrol, the chain of events unfolded as follows:
- Rear-End Collision: A 2016 Freightliner tractor-trailer rear-ended a 2013 Honda sedan that was slowing for construction traffic.
- Secondary Collisions: The impact caused the Honda to rear-end a 2019 Chevrolet pickup truck, which then struck a 1998 Chevrolet pickup.
- Median Crossing: Both the Honda and the tractor-trailer crossed the cable median barrier, entering the northbound lanes.
- Head-On Collision: They collided head-on with a 2015 Chevrolet pickup truck traveling northbound.
The drivers of the three Chevrolet pickups sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals. The driver of the tractor-trailer was uninjured. Tragically, the driver of the Honda sedan, identified as 34-year-old Rafael B. Veloz of Buford, Georgia, was found entrapped in his vehicle and was pronounced dead at the scene shortly after 7 a.m. (WYFF)
🏥 Victim Information
- Deceased: Rafael B. Veloz, 34, of Buford, Georgia.
- Injured Drivers: Drivers of the 2019, 1998, and 2015 Chevrolet pickups.
- Uninjured: Driver of the 2016 Freightliner tractor-trailer.
🚧 Contributing Factors
The South Carolina Highway Patrol reported that the vehicles involved were slowing down for construction traffic at the time of the crash. The rear-end collision initiated a chain reaction, leading to the tragic outcome. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining safe following distances, especially in construction zones where traffic patterns can change abruptly.
🛣️ Traffic Impact
The crash caused extensive traffic delays, with all southbound lanes of I-85 blocked until about 1:30 p.m. Motorists were advised to seek alternate routes, and the South Carolina Department of Transportation provided updates on road conditions throughout the day.
⚖️ Legal Considerations
In South Carolina, rear-end collisions often lead to liability for the trailing driver. However, determining fault in multi-vehicle accidents can be complex, involving factors such as road conditions, vehicle speeds, and driver behavior. Victims of such accidents may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a similar incident, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your rights and options.
📞 Contact Fob James Law Firm
If you or a loved one has been affected by a multi-vehicle accident, Fob James Law Firm is here to help. Our team of experienced injury attorneys can guide you through the legal process and work to secure the compensation you deserve.
Our deepest condolences go out to the families of the victim of this horrible incident.
If a family member would like the name of a person removed for any reason, please click the “Remove Post” link and send us a message. REMOVE POST
🧠 Additional Resources
- South Carolina Highway Patrol – Traffic Incident Reports
- Oconee County Coroner’s Office
- South Carolina Department of Transportation – Road Conditions
Fob James, IV
Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large national firm for several years, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society. Many of Fob’s cases are high profile and have been featured in, among others: Bloomberg News, PlanAdvisor, AL.com, PlanSponsor, InsuranceJournal, and BusinessInsider. For his work in obtaining numerous multi-million dollar outcomes for his clients, Fob has been recognized by: National Trial Lawyers Top 100, SuperLawyers Rising Star (2020-2025), Birmingham Business Journal Who’s Who in Law (2023-2025), and TrustAnalytica – Top Personal Injury Lawyers in Alabama.