Prince William Co., VA (July 4, 2025) – An early morning incident on Interstate 95 turned deadly when a Dumfries woman was struck and killed while trying to get gas for her disabled vehicle.
On July 1, Virginia State Police responded just after 5 a.m. to the northbound lanes of Interstate 95 near mile marker 152 in Prince William County. Investigators say Karen S. Rosa Hernandez ran out of fuel and left her car, found disabled in the express lanes, to retrieve gas.
According to a Virginia State Police spokesperson, a 2012 Toyota Corolla traveling northbound could not avoid Hernandez, who was in the travel lane. A gas can was discovered nearby, confirming that she was attempting to refuel her vehicle. Hernandez died at the scene before paramedics could transport her for further care. Additional information about the driver or possible charges has not been released as the investigation continues.
We extend our condolences to the family and friends of Karen S. Rosa Hernandez during this difficult time.
Car Accidents in Virginia
Accidents involving pedestrians are among the most heartbreaking crashes that occur across Virginia. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, over 122,000 crashes were reported statewide in 2022, with more than 58,000 injuries and about 1,000 fatalities. Pedestrians remain highly vulnerable, especially on busy highways where visibility and reaction time are limited.
Understanding the risks can help families stay safer on Virginia’s roads. Here are a few important factors to keep in mind:
- Poor Visibility: Many pedestrian-related crashes happen in low-light conditions, including early morning or nighttime hours. Drivers may not spot someone until it is too late. Wearing reflective clothing and staying off major highways whenever possible is crucial.
- Disabled Vehicles on Busy Roads: When a car breaks down on a highway, the situation can become dangerous very quickly. Pedestrians leaving vehicles to seek gas or help are at great risk of being hit by high-speed traffic. Calling for roadside assistance is always the safest option.
- Driver Inattention: Distracted driving is a top contributor to pedestrian crashes. A few seconds of looking at a phone can make it impossible for a driver to react in time to someone on the roadway.
- Emergency Planning: Carrying extra fuel, keeping a phone charged, and having an emergency kit can prevent the need to walk along dangerous roadways for help. Being prepared may save your life in a breakdown.
If you or a loved one has been injured, reach out to our Prince William County wrongful death attorney for trusted legal guidance. Having an experienced lawyer on your side right away is key to protecting your rights and getting the fair recovery you deserve.
At Blank & Marcus, we understand how a serious accident can upend your life. Our accomplished trial lawyers, including Irving M. Blank, Keith B. Marcus, and George O. Y. Naylor, have decades of experience winning cases for injured Virginians. We’ve secured verdicts and settlements exceeding $1 million and have been recognized by respected legal organizations like Virginia Super Lawyers and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum. We offer free consultations and treat every client with respect and compassion. Call our team at (866) 207-9823 to discuss your case today. You don’t have to go through this alone — we’re here to fight for you and your family.
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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