Onley, VA (April 11, 2025) – A serious collision between a Bloxom Volunteer Fire Department ambulance and a tractor-trailer sent multiple people, including emergency responders and a patient, to hospitals across two states on Tuesday.
The crash occurred on April 8 as the ambulance was transporting a patient southbound on U.S. 13. The EMS unit approached a tractor-trailer that was stopped at a red light. In an effort to maneuver around the rig, the ambulance collided with it and overturned. The impact left the vehicle on its side, requiring an urgent response from additional medical crews and law enforcement.
Three EMS personnel were injured in the crash, including driver Jerry Corbett Kellam Sr. and his wife, both of whom were rushed to hospitals in Maryland and Virginia. Another EMS crew member was also hospitalized. Amanda Bare, the patient being transported at the time, along with another unidentified person, was airlifted to Norfolk General Hospital for further treatment. Their conditions have not been released. The driver of the tractor-trailer was not injured. Virginia State Police are actively investigating the circumstances of the crash.
We extend our thoughts to the injured victims and their families and wish them a full recovery.
Ambulance Accidents in Virginia
Ambulance crashes, while rare, are particularly alarming due to the already high-stakes nature of medical transport. In Virginia, emergency vehicles are involved in dozens of accidents each year, often due to hurried driving, road conditions, or unpredictable traffic patterns. These crashes can result in severe injuries for both EMS personnel and patients.
Let’s take a closer look at some common causes behind emergency vehicle crashes:
- Navigation Around Traffic: Emergency vehicles often need to bypass traffic at high speeds. When drivers attempt to pass stopped or slow vehicles at intersections, blind spots and misjudgments can lead to serious collisions.
- Driver Fatigue: Long shifts and stressful conditions can leave EMS drivers exhausted. Fatigue is a leading contributor to decreased reaction times and poor decision-making.
- Limited Visibility: Whether due to weather, darkness, or obstruction by larger vehicles, reduced visibility plays a role in many accidents involving ambulances and other emergency units.
- Road Conditions: Potholes, uneven pavement, or slick roads increase the risk of losing control, especially when driving at higher speeds during an emergency response.
- Driver Distraction: Even with training, distractions within the vehicle—such as coordinating care or navigating unfamiliar routes—can momentarily divert attention from the road.
After a crash like this, it’s crucial to speak with an Onley car accident attorney as soon as possible. An experienced legal advocate can help clarify your options, protect your rights, and begin gathering evidence while memories are still fresh. If you’ve been injured in an ambulance-related crash, don’t wait to seek guidance. Call our personal injury attorneys at Blank & Marcus today to pursue a full recovery.
At Blank & Marcus, we know how quickly lives can change in a crash involving emergency responders. Our attorneys bring over 45 years of combined personal injury experience to every case, and we’ve helped clients across Virginia secure meaningful recoveries. Whether you’re an EMS worker, a patient, or a bystander injured in an accident, we are here to help you understand your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. We offer free consultations and never charge a fee unless we win. Call our reputable legal team at (866) 207-9823 to schedule your consultation today. Let us help you through this difficult time with care and experience.
Note: The details provided in this article regarding the reported incident have been compiled from publicly available sources. Blank & Marcus has not independently confirmed all aspects of the event. If you notice any inaccuracies or missing details, please notify our team immediately. We are committed to maintaining the accuracy of our reports and will swiftly update any errors to ensure the most reliable information is presented. Furthermore, requests for content removal will be respectfully addressed upon receipt.
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