Delivery Van Accidents
Large truck, business, and delivery van crashes are increasing in Virginia Beach. Drivers often face pressure to meet tight delivery deadlines. Moreover, fatigue and rushing can lead to mistakes at red lights, speeding, or distracted driving.
Today, national brands like Amazon, UPS, and FedEx vans are common on Hampton Roads’ local roads. In addition, local courier services and grocery delivery vehicles (such as Instacart and DoorDash) also contribute to road congestion.
Therefore, more deliveries mean more vans in neighborhoods and on busy streets, raising the risk for pedestrians and cyclists.
Other Common Delivery Vehicles in Virginia Beach
- Postal trucks (USPS) are seen daily in neighborhoods and business districts.
- Food delivery cars and scooters (Domino’s, Uber Eats, Grubhub) are active, especially during meal times.
- Medical supply vans and pharmacy delivery vehicles serve hospitals and healthcare clinics.
- Moving vans and rental trucks (U-Haul, Penske) are frequent, especially near military bases and industrial parks.
Inclement weather plays a significant role in delivery van accidents in Virginia Beach
Rain, fog, and even bright sun can make driving more dangerous for delivery drivers.
For example, wet roads reduce tire traction and increase stopping distances, making it easier for vans to skid or hydroplane. Heavy rain can also lower visibility, making it difficult for drivers to see other vehicles, pedestrians, or road signs.
Oil and debris on the road surface become especially slippery when rain first begins to fall, further raising accident risks.
Many delivery drivers feel pressure to stay on schedule, which can lead them to drive in unsafe conditions or take risks they might otherwise avoid.
Virginia Beach Roads Can Contribute to Vehicle Accident Risks in Bad Weather
Poor Drainage Systems
Some roads in Virginia Beach have inadequate drainage, leading to standing water during heavy rain. Standing water increases the risk of hydroplaning, especially for heavier delivery vans.
Sharp Curves and Narrow Shoulders
Sharp turns and narrow road shoulders make it more challenging for delivery vans to navigate, especially when roads are slick or visibility is low. These features leave little room for error if a driver loses control.
Heavy Traffic and Lane Shifts
Construction zones with temporary lane shifts add confusion and reduce maneuvering space, raising accident risk during storms. High-traffic areas become more dangerous when visibility drops and roads are slick.
Inadequate Road Markings and Lighting
Poorly maintained pavement markings and limited street lighting make it harder for drivers to see lanes and hazards in rain or fog. Delivery van drivers may miss turns, drift from lanes, or fail to spot stopped vehicles.
Wide Roads Encouraging High Speeds
Wide roads can encourage faster driving, but high speed is hazardous in wet conditions.
Certain areas in Virginia Beach are known for high accident rates during bad weather, especially at major intersections and busy roads
The intersections of Independence Boulevard, Interstate 264, and Virginia Beach Boulevard are among the most accident-prone spots, with nearly 600 crashes in 2024 alone.
- Intersections on Rosemont Road (such as Holland Road, Plaza Trail, and Lynnhaven Parkway) and intersections like Pacific Avenue and 21st/22nd Street also see frequent accidents.
- Bad weather, like heavy rain or fog, makes these locations even riskier due to low visibility, slippery surfaces, and high traffic volume.
- Flooding and poor drainage can also create hazardous conditions, especially on roads with uneven surfaces or potholes.
Broadside collisions (T-bone accidents) are more likely at busy intersections, particularly during storms or when roads are slick.
Bad weather increases accident rates in Virginia Beach during certain times of day when traffic is heaviest and visibility is lowest
In the morning rush hour (7:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m.), more accidents occur as drivers face crowded roads and may rush to work in the rain or fog.
Another high-risk period is the afternoon and evening commute (3:30 p.m. to 7:59 p.m.), especially when storms or heavy rain hit while many people are on the road.
Nighttime (8:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m.) is especially dangerous during spring and summer, with reduced visibility and a higher chance of severe crashes.
Heavy rain or fog can make these busy times even riskier. Drivers may struggle to see, stop, or avoid hazards, leading to more collisions.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Commercial Vehicle Accident in Virginia Beach
Following a car accident, move to a safe location if possible, but do not leave the scene.
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical help for anyone injured.
- Check for hazards, such as leaking fluids or fire, and inform emergency responders if you notice any dangers.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including name, contact details, insurance, company name, and vehicle number. If the other driver refuses to exchange information after an accident in Virginia Beach, stay calm. Do not argue or escalate the situation. Call the police right away and tell them that the other driver is refusing to provide his or her information. Police are required to respond, document the incident, and collect the necessary details from everyone involved.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses at the scene.
- Take photos or videos of the vehicles, the accident scene, visible injuries, road conditions, and any relevant details.
- Do not discuss fault or sign any paperwork from the other driver.
- Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor, as some injuries may appear later.
- Notify your insurance provider about the accident.
- Consider consulting a personal injury lawyer experienced in commercial vehicle accidents to protect your rights and guide you through the claims process.
Seek Representation from an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Our experienced personal injury attorneys can help to ensure you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for your injuries.
We understand the nuances of Virginia personal injury law. We can provide insights into how to best approach your case, whether through negotiation with insurance companies or in court if necessary.
Having our legal expertise on your side can alleviate much of the stress of dealing with insurance claims and legal proceedings.
The injury law attorneys at Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC can advocate on your behalf, ensuring that you are treated fairly and that your case is presented effectively.
Contact Preston, Wilson & Crandley, PLC at (757) 486-2700.
Follow us on Facebook.