Driving in West Virginia should not be a risk for our citizens or those who visit our state. However, West Virginia tends to have a higher fatal crash rate than other states across this country. Drivers in this state should be aware that there are some highways that pose more of a risk than others. Drivers should also be aware that our terrain and areas of higher elevation create significant risks, particularly during the winter months.
West Virginia Fatal Crash Data
The latest comprehensive study of West Virginia roadways shows that during a four-year period, the following number of deaths were recorded on our roads:
- 290 deaths on interstates and expressways
- 843 deaths on arterial roads (high-capacity urban roads)
- 490 deaths on collector roads (connecting traffic from local streets with arterial roads)
- 265 deaths on local roads
Highways with Highest Fatality Rates
In West Virginia, we have many deadly highways. However, studies show that in the most recent year of data available, the most dangerous highway in West Virginia was Interstate 64, with 26 fatalities in the latest reporting year. The second most deadly highway for that year was Interstate 79, which had a total of 22 fatalities.
When we look at the map, we can see that both I-64 and I-79 run through the Charleston area, which tends to have more traffic than the rest of the state. Another dangerous roadway, Route 2, runs along the northern area that borders Ohio, another high-traffic area.
Seasonal/Weather Conditions
West Virginia has a higher traffic fatality average than most of the rest of the United States. One of the causes of our high fatality rates is our rural and mountainous roadways, which can be adversely affected by wintery weather conditions. In West Virginia, state authorities own and maintain 95% of our roadways, and workers have a hard time keeping up with clearing the roads during winter weather. This can lead to serious accidents.
Injuries can also be severe
Not every accident results in a fatality, but that does not mean that drivers and passengers escape from an accident unharmed. It is not uncommon for our West Virginia car accident lawyers to help clients who have sustained the following in an accident:
- Broken and dislocated bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Concussions
- Severe lacerations
- Internal organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
- Whiplash injuries
Each of these injuries requires medical attention and can lead to significant recovery times for a victim. If a car accident victim is unable to work and earn money, the financial stability of their family could be put at risk.
When to Contact a West Virginia Car Accident Attorney
One of the most valuable things you can do if you or a loved one had been injured in a car accident is to contact an attorney immediately. Do not wait until your insurance case is ongoing. At Tiano O’Dell, PLLC, we are dedicated to helping clients recover any compensation they are entitled to, which can include:
- All medical expenses related to the accident
- Any income you lost if they cannot work
- Pain and suffering damages
- Loss of personal enjoyment damages
- Possible punitive damages against the negligent party
If you need a West Virginia car crash lawyer, you can contact us for a free consultation by clicking here or calling (304) 720-6700.