With its winding roads, mountainous terrain, and scenic landscapes, West Virginia provides some of the most spectacular views in the country. Still, it is these very same attractions that make some roads in the state very dangerous for motorists. With the steep grades, sharp curves, unpredictable weather, and roads that are not always properly maintained, driving in West Virginia can prove to be quite treacherous, especially for people who are not familiar with the terrain. Over the past few decades, some of these roads have gained a reputation for being particularly dangerous.
Route 19
U.S. Route 19 runs through the central portion of West Virginia, from the Morgantown area to Beckley. This highway is one of the busiest in the state and motorists often use it as a shortcut between I-79 and I-64. While motorists can get to their destination more quickly by using Route 19, it is known for having some of the most serious accidents in the state. This is because it has multiple intersections, sudden elevation changes, and dangerous curves. Many motorists are also known for speeding down this road, which adds to the danger. The ‘Appalachian Corridor’ is a stretch of this road that is particularly deadly. Here, people drive at very high speeds and there are no safety barriers.
I-77
Running from the southern tip of the state and through Charleston, I-77 is also a very dangerous road in West Virginia. I-77 always has a significant amount of traffic and it serves as a major route for transport trucks carrying goods into the state and its surrounding areas.
Here there is mountainous and hilly terrain, which presents several hazards to motorists. When inclement weather, such as heavy fog, snow, or rain is a factor, conditions become even more dangerous. The West Virginia Turnpike, which runs between Charleston and Beckley, is particularly deadly due to its sharp curves, narrow lanes, and steep inclines.
Crashes on I-77 often involve multiple vehicles, causing some of the most serious damage. This is particularly true when large commercial trucks are involved, which is often the case. Accidents on this road are often caused by fatigued driving, poor road design, and improper truck maintenance.
West Virginia Route 2
Running parallel to the Ohio River, West Virginia Route 2 has many scenic views but it is also quite dangerous. The road only has two lanes and they are quite narrow. As the road winds through industrial areas and small towns, it is a popular route for both commercial and local motorists. The sharp curves, commercial trucks, and improperly maintained roads are a deadly combination for drivers. The bends in the road also greatly reduce visibility for drivers and without any real shoulders, there is little margin for error. Wildlife also frequently crosses the road, especially at dusk and dawn, which is another significant danger for motorists.
Many drivers are not familiar with the twists and turns along West Virginia Route 2. This is the cause of many crashes, particularly when a motorist is driving while distracted or speeding.
U.S. Route 60
Also known as the Midland Trail, U.S. Route 60 provides some of the most beautiful views in the state. Unfortunately, it is also one of the deadliest roads in West Virginia. With several steep inclines and sharp turns, this stretch of road is extremely dangerous even when conditions are ideal. When snow or icy conditions are present, even the most experienced motorists find it almost impossible to safely navigate this stretch of road.
The portion of U.S. Route 60 near Hawks Nest State Park is extremely well-known for fatal accidents. Here the road winds and the lanes are also extremely narrow. The road presents many challenges for people who are familiar with it but for tourists, it is especially dangerous.
I-79
I-79 is a very popular road in West Virginia, particularly for commercial trucks and commuters. Most sections of this road are quite safe, but some stretches are quite hazardous, particularly those around Fairmont and Clarksburg. Sudden weather changes, high speeds, and common construction zones all contribute to some of the most serious accidents.
In the winter, ice and snow accumulate on the road fairly quickly, creating hazardous driving conditions. Certain areas of the highway are also known for foggy conditions, which reduce visibility and cause accidents involving multiple vehicles. This not only results in more serious crashes but also makes it difficult to determine liability.
U.S. Route 33
U.S. Route 33 runs east to west across West Virginia. The road has many bends as it runs through the Appalachian Mountains. Along with steep drop-offs and sharp turns, the road is also very narrow. All of these factors combined make for very dangerous driving conditions. The sharpest curves and steepest grades are near Seneca Rocks, making this stretch especially hazardous. Again, this road is very attractive to tourists, who are not familiar with the road, increasing the danger for them and motorists in their vicinity.
West Virginia Route 9
This road is also very attractive to commuters and commercial trucks, which also means it is often very congested. There are few safety barriers along West Virginia Route 9, and many areas are winding and narrow. The road also has very high speed limits so when there is an accident, it usually results in very serious injuries.
Our Personal Injury Lawyers in West Virginia Can Help After a Crash
If you have been injured in a crash on the above roads, or any other in the state, you need sound legal advice. At Kaufman & McPherson, PLLC, our West Virginia car accident lawyers will fight for you. We can review the facts of your case, determine who is liable, and help you claim the full and fair settlement that is rightly yours. Call us today at 304-842-4300 or fill out our online form to schedule a secure and confidential consultation. One of our experienced attorneys can help.
