Quick answer
According to crimebycity.com's analysis of NHTSA data, West Virginia recorded 1,331 traffic deaths in 1,229 fatal crashes over the most recent five-year period — 15.0 per 100,000 residents per year, ranking #18 of 50 states (most dangerous first); the US average is 12.3.
Traffic Deaths (5-Yr Total)
Deaths per 100K per Year
State Rank
West Virginia Traffic Deaths by Year
The Most Dangerous West Virginia Cities to Drive In
All 12 ranked West Virginia cities by Road Danger Score (5-year traffic deaths per 100,000 residents, most dangerous first).
| # | City | Danger Score | Deaths (5-Yr) | Deaths per 100K/yr |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Martinsburg | 99/100 | 33 | 34.7 |
| 2 | Morgantown | 98/100 | 44 | 28.8 |
| 3 | South Charleston | 94/100 | 13 | 19.9 |
| 4 | Saint Albans | 93/100 | 10 | 19.5 |
| 5 | Parkersburg | 91/100 | 26 | 18.0 |
| 6 | Charleston | 83/100 | 33 | 14.3 |
| 7 | Huntington | 70/100 | 25 | 11.1 |
| 8 | Clarksburg | 59/100 | 7 | 9.1 |
| 9 | Wheeling | 43/100 | 9 | 6.9 |
| 10 | Weirton | 41/100 | 6 | 6.6 |
| 11 | Beckley | 37/100 | 5 | 6.1 |
| 12 | Fairmont | 32/100 | 5 | 5.5 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many car accidents happen in West Virginia?
NHTSA's Fatality Analysis Reporting System recorded 1,229 fatal car accidents in West Virginia over the most recent five-year period, killing 1,331 people — an average of 266 traffic deaths per year.
How dangerous are West Virginia roads compared to other states?
West Virginia averages 15.0 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents per year, ranking #18 of 50 states (most dangerous first). The US average is 12.3 per 100,000.
What causes fatal car accidents in West Virginia?
Of West Virginia's fatal crashes over the most recent five-year period, 29% involved a drinking driver, 26% involved speeding, and 38% happened in dark conditions.
Which West Virginia city is the most dangerous to drive in?
Among ranked West Virginia cities, Martinsburg has the highest Road Danger Score (99/100) at 34.7 traffic deaths per 100,000 residents per year.