Interstate 64 is a busy east-west highway that runs from Chesapeake, VA, to Wentzville, MO. This highway connects major cities like Richmond, Lexington, Hampton Roads, and St. Louis, so it is bound to experience numerous types of car accidents and truck crashes.
No matter how careful you are, the top four dangers of Virginia’s Interstate 64 can be attributed to other drivers causing accidents and road conditions.
I-64 is also a major trucking corridor. This can make it even worse when you get into an accident because of the large size of these trucks. A Charlottesville car accident lawyer is important to have on your side to figure out the best action plan after an accident on I-64.
1. Why Are Rear-End Accidents So Common On Interstate 64?
Rear-end collisions are one of the dangers of Virginia’s Interstate 64. This type of accident occurs because, on an interstate, cars are directly behind one another. When someone is distracted or driving too close, a rear-end accident is bound to happen if the other driver cannot stop fast enough.
Rear-end collisions happen frequently because of the unique challenges that come with highway driving. Drivers often underestimate the distance needed to stop safely, especially at high speeds. Factors like weather conditions and impaired driving can make these crashes even more dangerous.
To avoid rear-end accidents, maintain a safe following distance and avoid distractions like texting or adjusting the GPS. Defensive driving can go a long way in preventing such crashes. Unfortunately, even careful drivers can become victims of rear-end accidents on Interstate 64 due to others’ negligence.
For a legal consultation with a personal injury lawyer, call 434-817-3100
2. Why Are Highway Pileups a Growing Concern on I-64?
Pileups are multi-vehicle accidents that can cause serious injuries and property damage. As one of the dangers of Virginia’s Interstate 64, these often occur during inclement weather or in areas with limited visibility.
Pileups are particularly dangerous due to the high speeds involved and the difficulty drivers have in reacting in time.
Common causes of pileups include sudden stops, distracted driving, and slippery road conditions. The presence of large trucks increases the severity of these accidents, as their size and weight amplify the impact. Emergency response times can also be longer in rural stretches of I-64, which can make the consequences even worse.
To reduce the risk of pileups, it is important to avoid tailgating so you can stay safe on the highway. Unfortunately, people neglect that important rule. They also do not slow down during poor weather conditions to give extra space to large vehicles like trucks.
3. How does Speed Affect Accidents on Interstate 64?
Speed plays a major part in the dangers of Virginia’s Interstate 64. Driving at speeds above 55–60 mph significantly reduces the time drivers have to react to unexpected changes in traffic. At high speeds, there’s almost no room for mistakes, making serious crashes much more likely.
The force of impact in a high-speed crash is much greater, leading to more severe injuries and extensive vehicle damage. Weather conditions like rain or fog, which reduce visibility and make roads slippery, further amplify these risks. On a busy highway like I-64, even one small mistake at high speeds can result in widespread damage.
High speeds also increase stopping distances, meaning drivers need much more room to slow down or stop their vehicles safely. On highways like I-64, this can be especially dangerous in heavy traffic or near construction zones where sudden stops are common.
Keeping your speed in check is important because it can mean the difference between a close call and a serious accident.
4. Why Road Work Can Be to Blame on I-64
A car accident from road work on I-64 is a common occurrence, and while it’s helpful for maintaining safe travel, it can also lead to accidents. Construction zones often have reduced speed limits, lane closures, and shifting traffic patterns that can catch drivers off guard. Some common ways road work can contribute to accidents:
Narrowed lanes and limited space make it harder for drivers to maneuver safely. Sudden stops from congestion in work zones can lead to abrupt braking. Confusing signage and poorly placed or unclear signs can leave drivers uncertain about what to do.
You can plan your drive ahead by checking your route for road work updates. The Virginia Department of Transportation offers a helpful tool to list all Travel Advisories. Knowing where construction zones are can reduce your risk of encountering a road-work-related crash on Virginia’s Interstate 64.
Common Types of Accidents on Interstate 64
Interstate 64 consistently has heavy traffic, making it a recurring spot for accidents. The above four dangers of Virginia’s Interstate 64 lead to multi–vehicle collisions, sideswipes, and rollovers, which are often caused by hazardous conditions or driver inattention. These types of accidents often result in injuries that can range from minor bruises to severe trauma.
Sideswipes are common in areas where lanes narrow or merge, usually caused by drivers who do not check their blind spots. A rollover is less frequent than the others but is not uncommon and can be a tragic situation. Multi-vehicle accidents, including pileups, are a major concern because of dense traffic and speed.
Staying alert and driving defensively are important to reduce the likelihood of these accidents. Even the most cautious driver can get themselves into a dangerous accident on Virginia’s Interstate 64.
All you can do is remain cautious and alert, and if something happens to you, then meeting with a car accident lawyer should be the first thing you do.
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When you come across one of the dangers of Virginia’s Interstate 64, it can lead to severe consequences that may impact your life. It can be a lot to handle by yourself, especially when you never experienced anything like it.
Contact our team for a confidential consultation to see how we can help you move forward with more confidence.
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