If you live in the Eastern Panhandle, you’ve probably driven through both Jefferson and Berkeley Counties. The roads may look the same, but what happens on them can be very different, especially when it comes to car crashes.
At Skinner Accident & Injury Lawyers, we help people from both counties after they’ve been hurt in wrecks. Crash data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows how serious the risks are on our local roads.
Rural Roads in Jefferson County Can Make Crashes More Severe
Jefferson County’s rural roads, like Leetown Road and Mission Road, may not see the same volume of traffic as more urban areas, but when crashes happen here, they’re often more serious.
That’s largely because of the nature of these roads. Long stretches with higher speed limits, limited lighting, and fewer safety features mean drivers have less room for error, and help may take longer to arrive when things go wrong.
According to the Federal Highway Administration, fatal crash rates on rural roads are more than twice as high as those on urban roads nationwide. That national pattern reflects what many in Jefferson County already know firsthand: rural crashes may happen less often, but when they do, the consequences can be devastating.
Why Speeding Continues to Be a Leading Factor in Crashes
Even though the roads in Jefferson and Berkeley Counties are different, one factor shows up again and again in serious crashes: speeding.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, speeding was involved in 29% of all traffic fatalities in the U.S. in 2021. It remains one of the most common and deadly behaviors behind the wheel.
What You Should Know if You’re in a Crash
If you’re in a crash, it’s important to get medical help right away, even if you don’t feel hurt. Some injuries may not appear for some time. Also, make sure to get a copy of the police report. This can help with your insurance or a legal case.
In Berkeley County, you can request a report through the Sheriff’s Office. Details are on their official website. In Jefferson County, the process is similar and costs less, but you’ll still need the report for your records.
What This Means for You
Just because Jefferson has fewer crashes doesn’t mean it’s safer. Crashes in these areas are more likely to be deadly due to the winding roads and high speeds people use on familiar roads.
Berkeley sees more crashes overall, but because of slower traffic and more urban roads, those wrecks are often less severe.
No matter where you drive, the choices you make behind the wheel matter. Speeding, distracted driving, and driving under the influence all increase the risk of serious injury or death.
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a wreck, whether in Jefferson County, Berkeley County, anywhere in the Eastern Panhandle, or across Maryland, Skinner Accident & Injury Lawyers is here to help. We’ve stood beside local families for decades, and we’re ready to stand by you when it matters most.