Interstates make traveling easier. There’s a steady flow of traffic and people can get where they need to go in a timely manner. However, interstates have an accident risk because so many people use them. It only takes one moment of negligence from a driver to cause a potentially fatal accident.
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, your injuries may be keeping you from work, giving you chronic pain, and causing emotional stress. You don’t have to go through this alone. Get in touch with a West Virginia car accident lawyer from DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC so you can start your path to recovery.
Dangerous West Virginia Interstates
West Virginia has many dangerous interstates where there’s a high chance of getting in a fatal car accident. The Daily Beast found crash data between 2004-2008 and ranked 100 dangerous interstates in the U.S. Five interstates that run through West Virginia made the list.
- I-77. 95 people have died on this road and there have been 86 fatal accidents.
- I-79. There have been 93 total fatalities and 73 fatal accidents.
- I-81. For 26 miles, this interstate has had 34 total fatalities and 30 fatal accidents.
- I-68. Even though this road goes through West Virginia for 32.06 miles, there have been 22 fatalities on it.
- I-70. This road goes through the state for 14.45 miles and has had 8 fatalities.
Safe Driving Tips
When driving on any road, whether it’s interstates, highways, or backroads, you should practice safe driving behaviors. Any moment of negligence could cause any accident. When you’re driving safely, you’re in control of your vehicle and will have more of a chance to react if another driver is negligent.
- Avoid Distracted Driving. Staying off your phone will keep your focus on driving and you’ll have two hands on the wheel. If you feel like you won’t be able to resist the urge to check your phone for texts or social media notifications, keep your phone out of sight or out of reach. You won’t be able to see a notification light blinking and it won’t be in your pocket.
- Leave Space Between Other Cars. Don’t tailgate other cars. Leave about four seconds of time between the car in front of you. If they have to suddenly turn or brake, you’ll have time to react.
- Drive the Speed Limit. Speeding reduces your control of the vehicle. The limits are set for a reason and tires can’t grip the road as well at extremely high speeds, which increases your chance of spinning out.
- Find Alternative Routes. Maybe you don’t have to take certain interstates all the time. Plan ahead and find alternative routes to get you to your destination.
- Avoid Peak Traffic Hours. If it’s possible to pick a different time to travel, don’t go when most people are on the road. Peak times are usually morning and evening commutes to and from work.
Following these tips will help you reduce your chances of being in a car accident. If more people practice safe driving behaviors, there’s a chance these interstates could stop being some of the most dangerous in the state.
