Drivers in Harpers Ferry, WV, know that the intersection of WV Rt. 340 and Shipley School Road is a problem area. Located near the Harpers Ferry US Customs & Border Protection Training Center and close to a school, this crossroad has a confusing design and heavy traffic from a 4-lane highway that make it especially risky. For families, students, and commuters, it is one of the Most Dangerous Intersections in the tri-state region.
Challenges for Drivers at This Intersection
Stephen and Andrew Skinner point out several safety concerns at this location:
- A confusing traffic pattern makes it difficult for drivers to move safely.
- Busy school traffic adds to congestion during morning and afternoon hours.
- Fast-moving vehicles on 4-lane Route 340 create serious risks for local drivers.
These conditions combine to create one of the most dangerous crossroads in Jefferson County, WV, where accidents are more likely to happen.
Why Extra Caution Matters Here
If you need to drive through this intersection, keep these points in mind:
- Reduce your speed. Slowing down gives you more time to react to sudden changes.
- Pay close attention to your surroundings, especially buses and young drivers near the school.
- Be careful when turning or crossing traffic. Other vehicles on this busy 4-lane highway may be moving quickly.
- Consider turning at nearby traffic lights instead of directly onto Shipley School Road for improved safety.
Even simple actions, like slowing down and staying alert, can make a big difference when traveling on Route 340 and Shipley School Road.
Explore More Intersections in Our Series
This blog is part of our ongoing Most Dangerous Intersections series, where we focus on roads and crossroads that put drivers at higher risk across West Virginia, Virginia, and Maryland.
Check out our Most Dangerous Intersections videos, where Stephen and Andrew Skinner of Skinner Accident & Injury Lawyers share their expertise to help keep drivers safe.
Please share this post with family members, young drivers, or those new to the area so they understand the driving risks common to this region.
Knowledge is one of the best ways to stay safe on the road. With awareness and caution, you can reduce your risk of accidents and protect the people who matter most.
If you spend time driving through Harpers Ferry, WV, Charles Town, WV, Martinsburg, WV, or Winchester, VA, this series is an important resource for staying informed and safe.