Madison County, VA (February 25, 2025) — A woman lost her life following a multi-vehicle crash on James Madison Highway in Madison County on February 22.
Authorities reported that the collision occurred at approximately 6:20 p.m. just north of Forest Drive. A Hyundai Elantra was traveling northbound when it abruptly slowed down and was struck from behind by a Toyota Camry. The impact caused the Hyundai to veer into the opposite lane, where it was struck head-on by a southbound Subaru Crosstrek.
The driver of the Hyundai, 27-year-old Erica L. Collier of the Brightwood area, suffered critical injuries. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to her injuries. Officials noted that she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. The driver of the Toyota, identified as 20-year-old Matthew Goins of Gordonsville, sustained minor injuries. He was evaluated and treated at the scene before being released. Authorities confirmed that he had been wearing a seatbelt. A 16-year-old girl from Fairfax County was operating the Subaru Crosstrek. She also sustained minor injuries but declined medical treatment at the scene. Law enforcement confirmed that she had her seatbelt fastened. The Virginia State Police are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this crash.
We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Erica L. Collier and hope for the timely recovery of those injured.
Car Accidents in Virginia
Virginia sees thousands of traffic collisions each year, many resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles reports that in a recent year, over 120,000 crashes occurred statewide, with more than 800 fatalities and tens of thousands of injuries. Among the primary factors contributing to these accidents are speeding, distracted driving, and failure to yield.
Understanding the risks associated with car accidents can help drivers remain vigilant. Here are some of the most common causes of collisions on Virginia roadways:
- Rear-End Collisions: These accidents often result from distracted or inattentive driving. Drivers failing to maintain a safe following distance or being preoccupied with mobile devices significantly increase the risk of rear-end crashes.
- Failure to Yield Right-of-Way: Many accidents stem from drivers disregarding traffic signals or failing to yield to oncoming vehicles at intersections. Misjudging another driver’s speed or intent can result in serious accidents.
- Head-On Collisions: Although less frequent, these crashes are among the most dangerous. They often occur due to drivers crossing the centerline, either from losing control or engaging in reckless driving.
- Seatbelt Use: Wearing a seatbelt is one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injuries in an accident. Studies have shown that seatbelts reduce the risk of fatal injuries by nearly 45% in passenger vehicles.
If someone you love has been tragically killed in a car accident, it is crucial to seek legal representation. Call our Madison County wrongful death attorneys at Blank & Marcus to discuss your legal options. Speaking with our attorney as soon as possible can help ensure that your rights are protected, evidence is preserved, and the appropriate steps are taken to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
At Blank & Marcus, we understand how difficult life can be after a deadly car accident has unexpectedly claimed the life of your loved one. Our seasoned attorneys have decades of combined experience handling personal injury cases and fighting for the rights of accident victims in Virginia. We have successfully secured million-dollar verdicts and settlements for our clients and remain committed to providing compassionate, effective legal support.
If you need legal assistance after a car accident, contact our team today. We offer free consultations to discuss your case and determine the best course of action. Call us at (866) 207-9823 to get started.
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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