With the capital of Virginia only an hour’s drive away, the Blue Ridge Parkway a half hour west, and one of the Commonwealth’s biggest universities right here in town, Charlottesville is no stranger to heavy traffic. And with all that traffic comes a comparable increase in the risk of car accidents.
Below, we discuss the roads most commonly associated with Charlottesville car accidents and car accident injuries. We also provide some insider tips on how to avoid collisions. Of course, we are here to help if you are injured in a crash on one of these Charlottesville roadways.
How Can Drivers More Safely Navigate These Roads?
The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles tracks traffic crash data. According to their most recent statistics, the following were the most dangerous roads in Charlottesville:
Road | Crash Injuries | Fatalities |
Seminole Trail | 68 | 0 |
I-64 | 53 | 3 |
Richmond Road | 41 | 0 |
Rockfish Gap Turnpike | 41 | 0 |
Scottsville Road | 24 | 2 |
How Can Drivers More Safely Navigate These Roads?
While there’s no way to prevent every car accident, especially in a city as busy as Charlottesville, certain precautions could greatly reduce your risk of being involved in a crash. Here are some of the things you can do to keep yourself safe on these otherwise dangerous roadways:
- Don’t Drive Drowsy – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), being awake for 17 hours yields the equivalent impairment as a blood alcohol content of .05 percent, increasing to .10 percent at 24 hours. Take regular breaks to rest as needed while on longer trips.
- Be Aware of Other Drivers – Charlottesville sees a large number of tourists in the summers and plenty of students the rest of the year, so there are always motorists on the road who are unfamiliar with the area. Residents who drive defensively and give ample space on the highway will reduce their chances of getting in a crash.
- Avoid Distractions – According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), distracted driving accounted for over 3,000 total car crash fatalities in a single recent year. Keeping your eyes on the road, hands on the wheel, and focus on the task at hand will reduce the likelihood of a collision.
- Drive Below the Speed Limit – Data from the NHTSA shows that speeding-related deaths accounted for more than 11,000 fatalities in a single year. As traffic safety advocates say, speed kills. Keep to the posted speed limits and give speeding drivers a wide berth.
- Obey Traffic Signals and Signs – Signs and signals control the flow of traffic and allow us to share the road safely. Violating these signs can put you and others at risk of collision.
- Maintain Your Lane – It’s important to be aware of your vehicle’s blind spots and take precautions when changing lanes.
How Long Should I Wait to Call a Lawyer if I Have Been in a Car Accident?
After documenting the scene of the accident, getting the other driver’s contact and insurance information, and seeking medical attention, your next step should be to contact a qualified Charlottesville car accident attorney. The sooner you do, the more they can help.
Contact our Car Accident Lawyers in Charlottesville Today
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a car accident in Charlottesville, VA, Kendall Law Firm is here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation with our car accident lawyers in Charlottesville.