With thin and winding highways, stretches of mountainous roads, and fast and careless drivers throughout West Virginia, it’s no surprise that our state has a nefarious reputation for deadly or severe highway accidents. However, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatalities across the country have been steadily decreasing. At the same time, according to the Daily Beast, 5 of America’s deadliest highways are located right here in West Virginia. Using road fatality statistics from NHTSA from 2004-2008, here are the 5 deadly highways listed below:
- Interstate 81 — Although Interstate 81 only passes through the small, northeastern corner of West Virginia (about 26 miles of highway), this stretch of highway had 1.15 fatal accidents per mile due to the 30 fatal accidents and 34 fatalities between 2004 and 2008.
- Interstate 70 — Interstate 70 only has about 14.45 in-state miles of highway, but this stretch of road had 0.55 fatal accidents per mile due to the 8 fatal accidents and 8 fatalities between 2004 and 2008.
- Interstate 68 — Interstate 68 has 32.06 in-state miles of highway, and this stretch of road had 0.50 fatal accidents per mile due to 16 fatal accidents and 22 fatalities between 2004 and 2008.
- Interstate 77 — Interstate 77 has 187.21 in-state miles of highway, and this stretch of road had 0.46 fatal accidents per mile due to 86 fatal accidents and 95 fatalities between 2004 and 2008.
- Interstate 79 — Interstate 79 has 160.52 in-state miles of highway, and this stretch of road had 0.45 fatal accidents per mile due to 73 fatal accidents and 93 fatalities between 2004 and 2008.
In addition to these statistics, a four-mile stretch of U.S. 33, between Seneca Rocks and Harman, is also notorious for its fatal accidents, especially involving tractor-trailers along “Dead Woman’s Curve.”
If you were injured in an accident, whether on these highways or others, and the accident was caused by the wrongdoing or negligence of another individual, then you need to call Charleston WV personal injury attorney Charles Love as soon as possible. As an experienced car accident lawyer, attorney Charles Love understands the costs associated with severe injuries, and he will diligently fight for fair and reasonable compensation for your injuries. For a free, no-obligation consultation with attorney Charles Love, call our law firm today at (304) 344 5683.
Driving Safely on West Virginia Highways
West Virginia lawmakers and officials have tried to mitigate risks along some of West Virginia’s more deadly highways. Some actions have included mandatory stopping points, flashing lights and extra signage, and more. However, one of the best ways to drastically increase safety is to practice optimal driving habits.
As the holiday season approaches, here are some safe driving tips from all of us at the Love Law Firm:
- Always be prepared. Especially in the winter months, make sure to pack tire chains, keep your cell phone charged, and keep a first aid kit in your vehicle.
- Keep safe distances from other drivers.
- Drive the speed limit or, if you’re driving in hazardous conditions, make sure to slow down.
- Prevent skids by driving slowly and carefully. If you do feel yourself losing control, don’t hard brake or lock the wheels. Instead, maintain mild pressure on the brakes.
- Keep your tires inflated correctly and maintain good tire tread
- Correct speed and preparedness in wet or snowy conditions
In addition to these safe driving habits, you should always avoid the following activities that lead to distracted driving:
- Texting
- Using your phone in any way
- Eating and drinking
- Looking at maps
- Adjusting the GPS
- Adjusting a radio, CD player, or MP3 player
Contact the Love Law Firm in Charleston WV
Unfortunately, there are many West Virginia drivers who don’t practice safe driving habits. In some cases, drivers are negligent or are committing wrongdoing (drunk driving, for example). If you are injured in an accident caused by the other driver, then you are entitled to fair and reasonable compensation for any damages incurred, such as medical expenses, loss of income from work, and pain and suffering. With years as a leading Charleston attorney, personal injury lawyer Charles M. Love has the resources, experience, and knowledge of West Virginia laws to give you a diligent legal representation. To speak with attorney Love, call the Love Law Firm in Charleston WV today at (304) 344-5683. Free consultations are available.