On Tuesday, September 26th, Virginia State Police were dispatched to the scene of a fatal head-on collision on Interstate 64 in Henrico County. The three-vehicle accident took place at about 10:50 p.m. in the area of the Mechanicsville Turnpike.
What are the leading causes of head-on collisions in Virginia?
Upon their arrival, officers discovered that a westbound 2011 Toyota Avalon had crashed into the back of a 2000 Honda CRV. After the initial impact, the driver of the Avalon lost control of the vehicle and traveled into the median where it crashed into a guardrail and overturned into oncoming traffic. Before coming to an uncontrolled stop, the Avalon also collided head-on with a 2017 Acura MDX.
The driver of the Toyota, who was thrown from her vehicle when it overturned, has been identified by responders as DaQuana Shawnae Turner, a 32-year-old resident of Henrico County. Turner died at the scene.
The driver of the Acura, a 70-year-old male from Glen Allen, was transported by ambulance to Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening.
The driver of the CRV, a 37-year-old man, also from Henrico County, and his two adult male passengers were also taken by paramedics to Richmond Community Hospital in non-life-threatening condition.
It is unknown if speed or impairment played a role in the fatal accident, which remains under police investigation at this time.
If you were injured in a head-on collision caused by another driver, a Virginia car accident attorney from Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can help. Our experienced lawyers can advise you on how to document your injuries, gather evidence that proves your damages, and deal with the insurance company. To learn more about how we can help, call our offices and schedule a free consultation today.
Virginia Car Accident Data
Data provided by the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles reveals that unrestrained drivers and passengers are eight times more likely to die in an accident. Despite the safety advantages of seat belts being widely acknowledged, the number of injuries and fatalities resulting from their lack of use continues to rise every year. The same goes for car accidents caused by speeding. Out of the 118,000 car accidents that occurred within the state in 2021, over 24,000 were caused by speeding drivers, resulting in 13,000 injuries and 445 fatalities. Almost 7,000 involved drivers under the influence, resulting in roughly 4,200 injuries and 250 deaths.
The cities with the largest number of car accidents in 2021 were Norfolk, Newport News, and Virginia Beach.
What is a Head-On Collision?
Full frontal collisions are also known as head-on collisions. Head-on collisions occur when two vehicles strike one another from the front, often while traveling in opposite directions. Single-vehicle head-on collisions can also happen when a driver runs into a fixed object, such as a road barrier or utility pole.
Due to the nature of this type of impact, head-on collisions generate a considerable amount of force. The vehicles’ hoods might crumple and absorb a little bit of the impact, but even with modern safety features, head-on accidents are one the most dangerous types of crashes that can occur.
Leading Causes of Head-On Collisions in Virginia
Head-on collisions normally happen when a driver crosses into oncoming traffic and hits another vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. Drivers who enter one-way highways and roads from the wrong side can also cause head-on collisions.
Head-on crashes have lots of potential causes. The ones that occur most frequently in Virginia are:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are making phone calls, sending texts, or otherwise not focused on driving can cross into an opposing lane of traffic and hit another vehicle or a fixed object head-on.
- Driving under the influence: Drivers who are under the influence of alcohol or drugs have delayed reaction times and often show poor judgment which can cause them to make catastrophic mistakes that could lead to a head-on accident.
- Drowsy driving: Drivers who are fatigued can lose control of their vehicles, especially if they fall asleep at the wheel.
- Improper passing: When a driver unlawfully crosses over a double yellow line to overtake another vehicle, it could result in a head-on collision with anyone traveling in the opposite direction.
- Drivers who are lost: Drivers who are unfamiliar with an area can turn the wrong way down a one-way street or enter a highway from the wrong direction which can lead to a head-on accident.
- Reckless driving: A reckless driver can lose control of their vehicle, which could cause them to crash into opposing drivers or fixed objects
Other common causes of head-on collisions include inadequate road signage and poorly laid-out roadways.
Were You Injured in a Head-On Collision in Virginia?
If you were injured in a head-on collision, the Virginia head-on car accident attorneys at Shapiro, Washburn & Sharp can help you bring the negligent driver to account. Call us at (833) 997-1774 or reach out online to schedule your free consultation.