Stretching 325 miles from Winchester in the north to Bristol in the south, Interstate 81 is the longest interstate highway in Virginia. It’s also the primary corridor for economic activity moving through western Virginia. Within the state alone, I-81 connects 30 colleges and universities, 21 cities and towns, and 13 counties. It also parallels the Blue Ridge Parkway.
The construction of Interstate 81 in Virginia began in 1957. Although an important economic corridor, I-81 sees many serious motor vehicle accidents each year, including fatal accidents.
If you suffered injuries or lost a loved one in an accident on I-81 due to a negligent driver, you may qualify to receive compensation. However, you need an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney to help you navigate the complex claims process and increase your chances of obtaining maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Tractor Trailers on I-81 in Virginia
With its total length spanning from Tennessee to upstate New York, I-81 is considered one of the top eight trucking routes in the United States, serving as the main link between southern economic hubs and northeast markets.
Truck volume on the highway has surged in recent years. Originally, I-81 was designed for 15% big rig traffic. Recent data indicates that trucks constitute 20% – 30% of total traffic on the highway. This amounts to 11.7 million trucks carrying $312 billion in goods per year. In Virginia, 42% of the total statewide interstate truck miles traveled are on I-81 alone.
I-81 has become increasingly notorious for heavy traffic congestion and frequent semi-truck accidents, making it one of the most dangerous roads in Virginia.
Accidents Involving Tractor Trailers on I-81
The prevalence of tractor-trailers on I-81 poses a unique safety risk. Their imposing size and weight create added dangers on congested roadways, particularly given the mountainous topography of I-81 through Virginia. In many areas, the roadway narrows substantially, with tighter curves and steeper slopes than many other highways further east. For example, 48 miles of I-81 in Virginia have grades of greater than 3%. Weather is also a frequent contributing factor, especially when winter storms bring ice and snow to western Virginia.
All of these factors create an environment in which crashes involving tractor-trailers seem to be an almost daily occurrence. VDOT has published data showing that approximately 2,000 crashes occur along I-81 each year. Twenty-two percent of those crashes involved trucks. Tragically, many of the incidents prove fatal.
The challenges posed by the increasing 18-wheeler traffic on I-81 have not been ignored. Virginia has implemented the I-81 Improvement Program. VDOT’s website hosts various resources regarding the program, including an interactive map for tracking the projects that have been completed, are underway, or are currently in the planning stages.
Yet even as officials work to address the problem, heavy tractor-trailer volume remains a danger to motorists traveling on I-81. Allen & Allen’s experienced tractor-trailer attorneys have published safety tips on how to share the road with big trucks.
What Causes Accidents on I-81 in Virginia?
Accidents on Interstate 81 (I-81) in Virginia result from a variety of factors, ranging from human error to adverse weather conditions. Some common causes of accidents on I-81 include:
- Distracted Driving: The use of mobile phones, texting, or other distractions while driving can lead to accidents. Distractions take the driver’s attention away from the road, increasing the risk of collisions.
- Speeding: Speeding is a significant factor in many accidents on highways, including I-81. Driving at speeds higher than the posted limits reduces reaction time and increases the severity of accidents.
- Aggressive Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, weaving in and out of traffic, and road rage can lead to dangerous situations and accidents.
- Driver Fatigue: Long stretches of highway, such as I-81, can contribute to driver fatigue. Fatigued drivers may have slower reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Inclement Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, including rain, snow, ice, or fog, can make driving on I-81 hazardous. Reduced visibility and slippery road surfaces contribute to accidents.
- Poor Road Conditions: The condition of the road itself can contribute to accidents. Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poorly marked construction zones can be hazards for drivers.
- Construction Zones: Construction zones on I-81 may have reduced speed limits, lane closures, and altered traffic patterns. Failure to adhere to these changes or negligent construction practices can lead to accidents.
- Tailgating: Following too closely behind another vehicle can result in rear-end collisions, especially if the lead vehicle stops suddenly.
- Improper Lane Changes: Failure to signal, improper merging, or abrupt lane changes can lead to sideswipes or collisions on I-81, particularly in areas with three lanes or more.
- Vehicle Defects: Mechanical failures or defects in a vehicle, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, can lead to accidents on the highway.
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI): Impaired driving due to alcohol, drugs, or prescription medications can significantly increase the risk of accidents.
- Lack of Driver Experience: Inexperienced or novice drivers may struggle to navigate high-speed and congested conditions on I-81, increasing the risk of accidents.
- Steep Grades and Big Rigs: Certain parts of I-81 have steep slopes, and large commercial trucks like semis and tractor-trailers may struggle to brake in time to avoid a collision.
To reduce the risk of accidents on I-81, drivers should practice safe and defensive driving, adhere to speed limits, avoid distractions, and adjust their driving behavior based on weather conditions. Regular maintenance of vehicles and staying alert to changing road conditions can also contribute to safer travel on the highway.
Unfortunately, not all drivers behave appropriately behind the wheel and cause accidents. Speak with a Virginia personal injury attorney as soon as possible after suffering injuries in an accident on I-81 to safeguard your rights to pursue compensation from the at-fault party.
What Should I Do After an Accident on I-81?
If you’ve been involved in an accident on Interstate 81 in Virginia, it’s crucial to take certain steps to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here’s a guide on what to do after an accident on I-81:
- Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location if possible. If the vehicles are operable, consider moving them to the shoulder to avoid obstructing traffic.
- Call 911 and Request Emergency Medical Services: If there are injuries or significant property damage, call 911 to report the accident. Provide details about the location, the number of vehicles involved, and the extent of injuries.
- Follow Law Enforcement Instructions: Cooperate with law enforcement officers who respond to the scene. Follow their instructions and provide accurate information about the accident.
- Exchange Information: Exchange contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information with the other parties involved in the accident. Obtain names, addresses, phone numbers, insurance policy numbers, and vehicle registration information.
- Document the Scene: Take photographs or videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Capture vehicle license plate numbers, road conditions, and relevant signage.
- Gather Witness Information: If there are witnesses, obtain their names and contact information. Witness statements can be valuable in reconstructing the events leading up to the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and a medical evaluation can document any injuries for future legal claims.
- Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and honest information about the incident.
- Do Not Admit Fault: Avoid admitting fault or making statements that may be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts when discussing the accident with other parties, law enforcement, or insurance representatives.
- Preserve Evidence: Preserve any evidence related to the accident. This may include keeping damaged property, retaining medical records, and not repairing your vehicle until an insurance adjuster has assessed it.
- Be Cautious with Settlement Offers: If the other party’s insurance company offers a settlement, be cautious before accepting. Consult with an attorney to ensure that any settlement adequately covers your damages.
- Consult an Attorney: If you sustained injuries and wish to seek compensation, consult a personal injury attorney in Virginia. They can provide guidance on your specific situation and help protect your legal interests.
What Types of Compensation Can I Receive from an I-81 Accident Injury Claim?
If you’ve been injured in an accident on I-81 in Virginia, you may be eligible for various types of compensation through a personal injury claim. The specific compensation available to you will depend on the circumstances of the accident and the extent of your injuries. Common types of compensation sought in I-81 accident injury claims include:
- Medical Expenses: You could obtain compensation for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to the accident, including future medical expenses. This may include hospital bills, surgeries, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and other healthcare costs. You could also receive compensation for permanent disabilities or disfigurement resulting from the accident.
- Lost Wages: You may receive reimbursement for income you lost due to not being able to work during your recovery period. This can include wages, bonuses, and other employment-related benefits.
- Property Damage: You can seek compensation for the repair or replacement of your vehicle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
- Pain and Suffering: You may also pursue non-economic damages intended to compensate you for the physical pain, emotional suffering, and diminished quality of life resulting from your injuries.
- Emotional Distress: You could obtain compensation for psychological trauma, anxiety, depression, and other emotional distress caused by the accident and its aftermath.
- Loss of Consortium: These are damages awarded to compensate for the loss of companionship, intimacy, and support suffered by a spouse or family member due to the injuries.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If the accident resulted in a fatality, surviving family members may be eligible for compensation, including funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and emotional distress.
- Other Related Expenses: You may receive reimbursement for any out-of-pocket expenses you incurred as a direct result of the accident. This can include transportation costs for medical appointments or home modifications for disability accommodation.
You must consult a personal injury attorney to assess the specific damages applicable to your case and ensure that you pursue all the compensation you need. A Virginia personal injury attorney can help you gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and, if necessary, represent you in court to seek fair compensation for your injuries and losses.
How Long Do I Have to Pursue Compensation through a Personal Injury Claim in Virginia?
In Virginia, the time limit within which you must file a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. This applies to personal injury claims arising from car accidents, truck accidents, and other accidents on I-81 caused by someone’s negligence or wrongdoing. If you fail to file your personal injury claim within this time frame, you may lose your right to pursue compensation.
However, there are factors to consider involving the timeline for filing a claim:
- Discovery Rule: The statute of limitations may be extended under the “discovery rule” if the injury was not immediately apparent. In such cases, the two-year period may start from the date the injury was discovered or should have been reasonably discovered.
- Minors: If the injured party is a minor (under 18 years old), the statute of limitations may be tolled (paused) until they reach the age of 18. However, it’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand how this applies to your specific case.
- Government Entities: If the defendant is a government entity or employee, there may be specific notice requirements and shorter time limits for bringing a claim. Consulting with an attorney is crucial in these cases.
If you’re considering pursuing compensation through a personal injury claim in Virginia, seeking the advice of an experienced attorney will help you understand your rights and the specific deadlines applicable to your case.
Contact an Experienced Virginia Personal Injury Attorney Today
As personal injury attorneys serving Virginia, Allen & Allen has extensive experience representing clients who have been injured due to tractor-trailer crashes and other motor vehicle accidents on I-81. If such a collision has impacted you or your family, the truck accident lawyers at Allen & Allen are here for you. Call for a free consultation today at 866-388-1307 or contact us online to have an attorney get back to you.
