West Virginia, famous for its breathtaking mountains and landscapes, offers some of the most scenic driving opportunities in the United States.
However, its winding roads and challenging weather conditions make it home to some of the most dangerous routes in the country. From narrow mountain passes to curvy highways, driving in this state can be risky if you’re not prepared. Understanding which roads are the most hazardous and why can be prepared for challenges and reduce the likelihood of car accidents.
Here’s a look at some of the most dangerous roads in West Virginia and what makes them particularly perilous.
U.S. Route 19 (Corridor G)
U.S. Route 19, often referred to as Corridor G, is well known for steep grades, sharp curves, and busy intersections. This highway is notorious for accidents, particularly in areas that are less developed and lack effective guardrails.
The stretch between Beckley and Charleston sees a higher frequency of traffic collisions, often caused by drivers navigating the treacherous terrain. Due to the highway’s winding paths and inconsistent visibility, the risk of crashes increases, especially during adverse weather conditions.
It also passes through areas prone to heavy rain and fog, increasing the risk. U.S. Route 19 has seen a steady increase in traffic over the years, making congestion a frequent concern. More vehicles on this challenging road often lead to accidents, especially when drivers are unfamiliar with the area’s dangers.
Drivers should exercise caution when traveling along this route, particularly in inclement weather or during peak travel periods.
Interstate 77 (The Appalachian Corridor)
Interstate 77, one of West Virginia’s main north-south highways, connects the state with Virginia and Ohio. While much of the highway offers smoother driving conditions compared to some of the smaller, winding roads in the state, certain stretches of I-77 are still far from ideal.
A particularly risky section is between Charleston and the Virginia state line as it runs through the Appalachian Mountains, creating a dangerous combination of steep inclines, sharp curves, and unpredictable weather conditions.
Heavy traffic and the road’s challenging curves have led to multiple accidents over the years.
Winter weather, like snow, sleet, and ice, can make this road extremely treacherous. Even for experienced drivers, the icy conditions can make it hard to maintain control, especially on the elevated stretches of the interstate. The highway’s elevation changes and unpredictable weather patterns, including fog and rain, make driving some of the most dangerous in our state.
U.S. Route 50 (The Country’s Longest Highway)
U.S. Route 50 is a cross-country highway that passes through the entire state of West Virginia.
While it offers a scenic route through rural towns and rugged landscapes, certain areas of this road have earned a reputation for being dangerous. The road’s combination of narrow lanes, sharp turns, and hilly terrain makes it prone to accidents, particularly in poor visibility.
One of the most dangerous parts of U.S. Route 50 runs between Clarksburg and Grafton, where the road narrows and winds through a densely wooded area. During these stretches, drivers often face sudden elevation changes, making it difficult to navigate. The rural nature of these areas also means that help may not be readily available in case of an accident, increasing the risks.
The road is heavily traveled by trucks, adding another layer of danger to an already hazardous route.
West Virginia Route 2 (The Ohio River Road)
West Virginia Route 2 runs alongside the Ohio River, offering amazing scenic views for travelers but also bringing its own challenges. The narrow road, particularly in rural areas, features sharp curves, steep inclines, and blind spots. These characteristics make it another of the more dangerous roads to travel in the state.
The area around New Martinsville is especially treacherous, with high traffic volume from passenger vehicles and large trucks. The combination of frequent stops, narrow roads, and poor visibility makes this stretch of Route 2 particularly accident-prone. Drivers unfamiliar with the terrain may find themselves taking corners too quickly or failing to notice obstacles in the road, leading to potential crashes.
Route 2 is another road that can become hazardous during winter months, with ice and snow accumulation making the road slick and difficult to navigate.
West Virginia Route 219 (The Greenbrier Valley Highway)
Route 219 rambles through West Virginia’s picturesque Greenbrier Valley, offering stunning views of mountains, forests, and charming towns.
Despite its scenic appeal, this highway is notorious for its winding curves, elevation changes, and unpredictable weather, particularly in its upper elevations. The area between Lewisburg and Marlinton has been the site of many accidents over the years, typically caused by the road’s sharp turns and steep gradients.
Adding to the danger, many sections of Route 219 are not well lit, which increases the likelihood of collisions, especially at night and when conditions are foggy.
Be cautious when traveling through the Greenbrier Valley, as the road conditions are infamous for changing quickly and without warning, and some sections aren’t well-maintained.
U.S. Route 460 (The Gateway to the Mountains)
U.S. Route 460 is a major east-west highway connecting West Virginia and Virginia. As it passes through several mountain ranges, it can be another challenging route for drivers. The section between Bluefield and Princeton is especially hazardous, as it features sharp curves, steep grades, and areas where visibility can be severely limited.
The road’s elevation changes and the lack of guardrails in certain areas are responsible for the higher number of accidents over the years. The route also has frequent flooding, so it’s even more dangerous after heavy rainfall.
Drivers should be particularly cautious on U.S. Route 460 during the spring and fall when weather conditions can change rapidly.
At Forbes Law Offices, we understand that West Virginia’s stunning natural beauty comes with the challenge of navigating some of the most difficult and dangerous roads in the United States.
Drivers need to know the risks associated with our state’s mountain routes, unpredictable weather, and winding terrain. Whether traveling along the steep inclines of U.S. Route 19, the narrow roads of Route 2, or the unpredictable weather conditions on Interstate 77, driving with caution and preparedness is essential.
You can ensure a safer journey through the Mountain State by staying alert and aware of these hazardous roads.
