What Are the Most Dangerous Roads for Accidents in Virginia?

Virginia has many roads filled with speeding cars and large commercial trucks. With heavy traffic and higher speeds, accidents happen far too often on roads such as I-81, I-95, and U.S. Route 15. These crashes cause substantial injuries that can have a lasting impact.

It only takes a split second for a car accident to change lives. One moment, you’re driving on a familiar road. The next moment, you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, insurance claims, and the stress of how to handle it all.

Understanding which Virginia roads present the highest accident risk can help. If you have been injured in a motor vehicle accident on a dangerous road and believe another driver was at fault, you should consult an experienced personal injury law firm to clarify your legal options.

What Are Some Additional Roads In Virginia That Are Considered Most Dangerous?

According to data from the Virginia Highway Safety Office, 63,876 people suffered injuries and another 907 died in Virginia car accidents in one recent year. The following roads are the most dangerous in Virginia, or roads with a history of serious car accidents:

• Interstate 81 — This interstate route is a major north-to-south thoroughfare that parallels the Appalachian Mountains across the western part of Virginia. The Virginia Department of Transportation has designated a section of I-81 from Ironto in Montgomery County to Salem near Roanoke as a highway safety corridor due to higher-than-expected crash rates, injuries, and fatalities. Speeding and heavy truck traffic contribute to the high crash rate.
• Interstate 64 — Stretching from the mountains to the coast, I-64 sees heavy congestion, sudden weather changes, and high-speed traffic, all of which can lead to wrecks. A section of I-64 in the Shenandoah Valley runs together with I-81.
• Interstate 95 — This major interstate highway runs from north to south. It is one of the busiest and most dangerous roads in the country. Speeding, road construction, truck traffic, and distracted drivers contribute to frequent crashes and high numbers of fatalities in northern Virginia and around Richmond.
• Route 460 — This road cuts through rural and urban areas and attracts a mix of local traffic and long-haul truckers. Sudden stops and lane shifts make it risky.
• U.S. Route 15/29 — Winding through different regions, this highway has its share of blind spots, impatient drivers, and unpredictable conditions.

If you travel any of these roads often, you know how stressful they can be. One careless driver, one moment of distraction, and everything can change. Contact our Roanoke car accident attorney today.

What Are the Top Causes of Accidents on Virginia Roads?

Driver errors are the leading cause of Virginia car accidents and truck accidents. A driver could be held financially responsible for a car accident if they drive carelessly and fail to exercise the caution that a reasonable person would in the same circumstances. Generally, car accident cases involve one or more of the following types of negligent driving:

• Speeding beyond the posted limits
• Running red lights or stop signs
• Failing to yield the right-of-way
• Tailgating or following too closely
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Driving distracted, such as texting or eating
• Reckless or aggressive driving
• Failing to use turn signals
• Driving while fatigued
• Improper lane changes or merging.

Other factors can contribute to crashes in Virginia. For example, poor road conditions, such as potholes or inadequate signage, can create driving hazards. Vehicle defects may also lead to crashes. Finally, heavy rain or snow can reduce visibility, make roads slick, and create unsafe driving conditions. In some cases, several factors contribute to a collision. When that happens, understanding how it occurred becomes more challenging.

Are There Steps You Can Take to Keep Yourself Safe on Virginia Roads?

You can’t control how other people drive, but you can take steps that a reasonably prudent person would take to protect yourself, including the following steps:

• Stay alert — Watch for vehicles ahead of making sudden stops, turns, or lane changes.
• Give yourself space — Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially in bad weather or heavy traffic.
• Put your phone down — Avoid distractions and focus on the road ahead.
• Adjust to conditions — Slow down when roads are wet, icy, or foggy and drive at a speed that is safe for the weather conditions.

Even the safest drivers can suffer harm if another driver does not exercise the care expected and causes a collision. If that happens, we’re here to help you understand your legal options and whether you have a right to seek compensation based on someone else’s negligence.

What Types of Compensation Could I Seek for a Car Accident Claim in Virginia?

A crash can leave you with medical expenses, lost income, and months — or years — of recovery. If someone else caused the accident, you may be able to file a car accident claim to seek payment for:

• Medical expenses — Emergency care, surgeries, rehab, medications, and ongoing treatment
• Lost wages — Time missed at work and future loss of income
• Pain and suffering — Compensation for the physical and emotional toll of the accident
• Property damage — Repair or replacement for your car and other damaged belongings.

An insurance company may offer a quick settlement that doesn’t cover all your losses. An experienced attorney can gather evidence to prove negligence on the part of the at-fault driver and help you pursue a fair settlement. Most car accident cases settle without a trial.

Does Virginia Have a Time Limit for Filing a Car Accident Lawsuit?

Virginia law allows two years from the date of your injuries in an accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you wait too long, you could lose your chance to seek compensation.

Time moves fast when you’re recovering from a serious injury. Medical appointments, therapy, and everyday stress can make two years disappear quickly. You should contact a reputable law firm as soon as possible for guidance and an understanding of your legal rights.

Contact a Virginia Car Accident Lawyer

Lichtenstein Law Group PLC has represented many Virginians in car accident cases. Our attorneys have nearly 100 years of combined legal experience. Since 1992, we have concentrated on serious injury cases that affect those in our community.

We take a personal approach to every case. That means we listen to your circumstances, explain your options, and guide you through the insurance claim process. Our car accident lawyers want you to feel informed and supported.

If you’ve been in a crash on I-81, I-95, or any other Virginia road, we’re here to help. We’ll review what happened, gather the details, and help you determine the best path forward. To learn more, contact us today and receive a free consultation about your case.