With its rugged mountainous terrain, winding roads, and scenic landscapes, West Virginia offers some of the most breathtaking views in the United States. However, the same features that make the state beautiful also contribute to the dangers drivers face. The combination of sharp curves, steep grades, unpredictable weather, and often under-maintained roads can make traveling through West Virginia treacherous, particularly for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Over the years, certain highways and roads have developed a reputation for being particularly deadly.
For accident attorneys in West Virginia, understanding these hazardous roads is imperative when assisting clients involved in accidents. Here are some of the state’s deadliest roads, the factors contributing to their danger, and what accident victims need to know about their rights and options after a serious crash.
If you have recently suffered an injury in an accident on one of these West Virginia roads or any other road in the state, don’t hesitate to reach out to a skilled West Virginia car accident attorney for help today. When it comes to your legal rights and maximizing compensation, the sooner you hire a lawyer, the better.
U.S. Route 19
Location: Runs through the central part of the state, from the north near Morgantown to the south near Beckley.
U.S. Route 19 is one of the busiest highways in West Virginia, particularly for travelers looking for a shortcut between Interstates 79 and 64. While this road provides a faster route for travelers, it is also notorious for its high accident rates. The reasons for this are many, including heavy traffic, many intersections, and speeding drivers who fail to account for the dangerous curves and sudden elevation changes along the road.
Drivers recognize one particularly deadly stretch as the “Appalachian Corridor,” where high speeds and a lack of proper safety barriers have led to numerous fatal accidents. The intersection near Flatwoods is also notorious for crashes, especially during heavy tourist seasons.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- High traffic volume, especially for commercial trucks
- Numerous intersections and turn-offs that can cause confusion and delays
- Speeding, often exceeding the posted limits
What Victims Should Know:
If you were involved in an accident on U.S. Route 19, be sure to document all aspects of the crash, including the weather conditions, road signage, and the behavior of other drivers. Many accidents on this route are due to negligence, particularly speeding or distracted driving, which can influence your case.
Interstate 77 (I-77)
Location: It runs from the southern tip of West Virginia near Princeton, passing through Charleston and continuing north towards Ohio.
Interstate 77 is a major north-south West Virginia route with a high traffic volume, particularly large commercial trucks transporting goods through the Appalachian region. The road passes through hilly and mountainous terrain, which makes driving conditions more hazardous during inclement weather such as rain, snow, or fog.
Winter weather conditions make I-77 treacherous, leading to frequent pile ups and fatal accidents. The stretch between Charleston and Beckley, known as the West Virginia Turnpike, is one of the most dangerous, with narrow lanes, sharp curves, and steep inclines contributing to accidents.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- Steep grades and winding roads that are difficult to navigate, especially for large trucks
- High traffic volume, with many vehicles traveling at or above highway speeds
- Frequent hazardous weather conditions, including snow, ice, and fog
What Victims Should Know:
Accidents on I-77 often involve multiple vehicles, and the damage can be severe, especially when large trucks are involved. If you suffered injuries in an accident on this road, contact an experienced attorney who can investigate whether factors like improper truck maintenance, driver fatigue, or road design contributed to the crash.
West Virginia Route 2
Location: Runs parallel to the Ohio River along the western edge of West Virginia.
West Virginia Route 2 is known for its scenic views along the Ohio River but also for its perilous roadway. This narrow, two-lane road winds through small towns and industrial areas, making it popular with local drivers and commercial traffic. The combination of large trucks, sharp curves, and poorly maintained road surfaces makes Route 2 one of the most dangerous roads in the state.
Accidents are common due to limited visibility around bends, and the lack of shoulders means that there is little room for error. Additionally, wildlife crossing the road, particularly at dawn and dusk, presents a further hazard for drivers.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- Narrow lanes and sharp curves
- Heavy commercial traffic, especially trucks carrying industrial goods
- Lack of proper shoulders and guardrails
What Victims Should Know:
Many accidents on Route 2 occur because drivers are unfamiliar with the sudden twists and turns. If you’ve suffered an injury in an accident on this road, it’s in your best interest to gather evidence showing how the road conditions may have contributed to the crash. This can strengthen your case when seeking compensation for damages.
U.S. Route 60 (Midland Trail)
Location: Runs east-west across the state, from Kenova near the Ohio border to White Sulphur Springs near the Virginia border.
U.S. Route 60, also known as the Midland Trail, offers some of the most picturesque views in West Virginia but is also one of the deadliest. The road passes through mountainous regions with numerous sharp curves and steep inclines, making it challenging for even the most experienced drivers. In winter, icy conditions can make it nearly impossible to navigate certain sections safely.
The stretch of Route 60 near Hawks Nest State Park is particularly notorious for accidents, as the road becomes extremely narrow and winding. Tourists unfamiliar with the terrain often underestimate the road’s dangers, leading to fatal accidents.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- Narrow, winding roads with sharp curves
- Steep inclines and declines, making it difficult to control vehicles
- Frequent poor weather conditions, including fog, rain, and ice
What Victims Should Know:
If you’ve been injured in an accident on U.S. Route 60, the road’s dangerous design might be a factor in your case. A car accident attorney can help investigate whether improper road maintenance or failure to post adequate warning signs contributed to the accident.
Interstate 79 (I-79)
Location: Runs from Charleston in the south to Morgantown in the north, passing through the central part of the state.
Interstate 79 is another heavily traveled road in West Virginia, particularly for commuters and truckers traveling between Charleston and Morgantown. At the same time, most road sections are relatively safe; several dangerous stretches exist, particularly near Clarksburg and Fairmont. The combination of high speeds, sudden weather changes, and frequent construction zones makes this road prone to severe accidents.
Winter weather is a significant factor in accidents on I-79, as snow and ice can quickly accumulate on the road, leading to dangerous driving conditions. Additionally, fog is common in certain areas, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of multi-vehicle pileups.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- High speeds and heavy truck traffic
- Frequent construction zones that can cause sudden lane shifts
- Hazardous winter weather conditions
What Victims Should Know:
Determining liability can be complicated when accidents occur on I-79, particularly in multi-vehicle accidents. A thorough investigation may be necessary to decide whether negligent driving, road construction, or poor weather conditions were contributing factors.
U.S. Route 33
Location: It runs east-west across the state, from the Ohio border through Spencer and Elkins and into Virginia.
U.S. Route 33 is a dangerous road primarily due to its winding nature through the Appalachian Mountains. The road is often narrow, with sharp turns and steep drop-offs, creating hazardous driving conditions. Many accidents occur when drivers misjudge the road’s curves or encounter poor weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or snow.
The section of Route 33 near Seneca Rocks is particularly treacherous, as it features steep grades and sharp curves. This area is popular with tourists, many of whom are unfamiliar with the road, increasing the risk of accidents.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- Narrow, winding roads with sharp turns
- Steep drop-offs and elevation changes
- Heavy tourist traffic, with drivers unfamiliar with the road
What Victims Should Know:
If you’ve been in an accident on U.S. Route 33, it’s essential to determine whether road conditions played a role. Documenting the accident scene, including weather and road conditions, can significantly strengthen your case by helping to prove liability and secure compensation. Take photographs of the scene, note any debris or hazards, and gather witness statements if possible. This thorough documentation can provide crucial evidence in negotiations with insurance companies or in court, ultimately supporting your claim for damages.
West Virginia Route 9
Location: Runs from Charles Town to Martinsburg, continuing towards the Virginia state line.
West Virginia Route 9 is a major route in the state’s eastern panhandle and sees heavy commuter traffic, particularly near the growing urban areas of Charles Town and Martinsburg. While some road sections have modernized, others remain narrow and winding, with few safety barriers.
The combination of high speeds, commuter traffic, and a lack of proper shoulders or escape lanes makes Route 9 particularly deadly. Due to vehicles’ high speeds, accidents on Route 9 often result in severe injuries.
Why It’s Dangerous:
- High-speed traffic, particularly during commuter hours
- Narrow, winding sections with limited visibility
- Lack of adequate safety barriers or escape lanes
What Victims Should Know:
Route 9 is a rapidly growing commuter corridor, and accidents can involve multiple vehicles, particularly during rush hours. If you’re involved in an accident on this road, it’s important to act quickly to gather evidence and file a claim, mainly if road design or poor signage played a role.
Why You Should Hire a West Virginia Car Accident Attorney
Experiencing a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming event. In the aftermath of such an incident, you need to know that you have someone on your side who can oversee the complex legal process and fight for your rights. This is where a West Virginia car accident attorney can make all the difference.
One of the main reasons you should consider hiring a car accident attorney is their skills and knowledge of the law. They are well-versed in the ins and outs of personal injury law and understand the specific regulations and statutes that apply to car accident cases in West Virginia. With their background, they can assess your case objectively and determine the best course of action.
Another compelling reason to hire a car accident attorney is their invaluable support and guidance throughout the process. From the moment you hire them, they take on the responsibility of handling all the legal aspects of your case. This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if necessary. Having a skilled attorney by your side can alleviate the stress and burden, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize their payouts to accident victims. They may use tactics to undervalue your claim, deny liability, or delay the settlement process. You may be disadvantaged when dealing with these powerful entities without legal representation. However, with a West Virginia car accident attorney on your side, you have someone who will fiercely advocate for your rights and ensure fair compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Were You in an Accident on One of These Roads? Contact a West Virginia Car Accident Lawyer Today
Jeff Robinette, West Virginia Car Accident Lawyer
West Virginia’s challenging roads demand the utmost caution from drivers. Whether it’s the sharp curves of U.S. Route 33 or the heavy truck traffic on Interstate 77, driving through the state’s mountainous terrain can be hazardous. Unfortunately, accidents on these roads are often severe, leading to significant injuries or fatalities.
Understanding the risks associated with these dangerous roads is essential for victims of car accidents in West Virginia. If you or a loved one has suffered an injury on one of West Virginia’s deadliest roads, contacting an experienced West Virginia accident attorney can make a significant difference in securing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
Your West Virginia personal injury lawyer will investigate the accident thoroughly, determining whether factors like road design, weather conditions, or another driver’s negligence contributed to the crash. By taking swift action, you can protect your rights and ensure those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
Jeffery Robinette was admitted to practice law in 1991 and is licensed in all levels of state and federal trial courts in West Virginia. Mr. Robinette is also licensed in all state and federal appeals courts in West Virginia and the United States Supreme Court. As a National Board Certified Trial Attorney who has handled hundreds of motor vehicle, injury, and construction defect claims and a leading author on insurance claims settlement issues and difficulties in West Virginia, Jeff Robinette is uniquely qualified to represent your best interest.
