When most people in West Virginia get behind the wheel, they have no reason to suspect that they might be injured or killed. However, a car accident can occur in an instant, and West Virginia has some of the worst statistics for car accidents. Negligent driving is the number one reason for these crashes. Tiano O’Dell is committed to improving the car accident statistics in West Virginia by holding negligent drivers accountable through the accident claims and litigation process. Contact us today at (304) 915-0823 for a free consultation.
Fatal Crash Statistics in West Virginia
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the national fatality rate per 100 million vehicle miles traveled (VMT) was 1.34 in 2020, which itself was a 21% increase from the rate in 2019 and the highest rate since 2007. In West Virginia, this number was significantly higher than the national average at 1.66, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). This was the fifth highest fatality rate in the entire country, according to data from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that August and December were the deadliest months for traffic accidents in West Virginia and most fatal car accidents occurred during the daylight hours on Saturday or Sunday.
Serious Injury Car Accident Statistics in West Virginia
The FHWA reports that 805 people were seriously injured in West Virginia in 2020 with a five-year average of 992 serious injuries. The rate of serious injuries per 100 million VMT was 5.01 during that same year. Over a five-year period, the average rate of serious injuries per 100 million VMT was 5.31.
Why Are Car Accidents More Common in West Virginia
Some of the factors that contribute to the high number of car accidents in West Virginia are:
- More rural roads than other states
- The state’s mountainous terrain
- The high rate of drug abuse in West Virginia
- Impaired driving
- Negligent driving
- Severe winter weather
- Poor road maintenance
Common Causes of Car Accidents in West Virginia
Some of the most common causes of motor vehicle accidents in West Virginia include:
- Drug or alcohol impairment
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inexperienced driving
- Fatigued driving
- Weather and road conditions
Profile of Accident Victims in Car Accidents in West Virginia
Some characteristics of the people most likely to be injured or killed in car accidents in West Virginia include:
- Older drivers
- Younger drivers
- Motorcyclists
- Pedestrians
- Bicyclists
- Unbelted passengers
Anyone can find themselves the victim of a car accident in West Virginia. If you or a loved one find yourself in the unfortunate position of being hurt in a car accident, you will need experienced legal counsel to fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer for Assistance with Your Claim
If you or someone you love was injured or killed in a collision, turn to the experienced Charleston car accident lawyers at Tiano O’Dell. We have more than two decades of legal experience fighting to uphold the rights of accident victims. Our accomplished trial attorneys have been able to secure compensation against even the most powerful defendants, resulting in millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our deserving clients. Contact us today at (304) 915-0823 to schedule a free consultation with an experienced car accident lawyer who can discuss your legal rights and options.