Newport News, VA (January 3, 2025) – A dislodged manhole cover inside the Monitor-Merrimac Memorial Bridge Tunnel caused a two-vehicle collision Thursday morning, January 2, leading to injuries and significant traffic delays.
The crash occurred just before 8:15 a.m. on the Newport News side of the tunnel in the southbound lanes. According to Virginia State Police, the manhole cover dislodged, creating a hazard that led to the vehicles colliding inside the tunnel. Emergency services were called to assist those involved, and injuries were confirmed. The victims received medical treatment at the scene. An unknown number of victims required further medical care and were transported to area hospitals.
The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) reported that maintenance crews worked quickly to repair the manhole cover, its support ring, and the surrounding asphalt. By 9:30 a.m., traffic backups stretched approximately two miles as repairs and cleanup efforts were underway. Southbound traffic remained heavily impacted until the area was fully reopened. Authorities are continuing to investigate the sequence of events leading to this incident.
We wish those injured in this crash a full and timely recovery.
Car Accidents in Virginia
Virginia’s highways and bridges serve as vital links for millions of drivers every day, but accidents remain a frequent occurrence. Statewide, nearly 120,000 crashes happen annually, many of which result in serious injuries or fatalities. Road conditions, such as potholes or debris, contribute to some of these collisions and can cause significant disruptions.
When roadway hazards lead to accidents, the consequences can be severe. Common challenges include:
- Sudden Hazards: Issues like loose manhole covers or fallen debris can leave drivers with little time to react, resulting in collisions. Prompt repairs and inspections are critical to maintaining road safety.
- Chain-Reaction Crashes: Hazards on bridges or in tunnels can create chain-reaction accidents in confined spaces where vehicles have limited maneuverability. These situations often involve multiple victims and prolonged recovery times.
- Structural Repairs: Bridge-tunnel infrastructure requires constant maintenance to prevent accidents, but unexpected issues can arise, posing risks to motorists.
- Traffic Delays: Accidents in high-traffic areas, such as tunnels or bridges, often lead to significant delays, further increasing the likelihood of additional incidents.
If you or someone you love has been injured due to a roadway hazard or another driver’s negligence, it’s essential to explore your legal options with a trusted Newport News car accident attorney.
Blank & Marcus has been a cornerstone of personal injury representation in Virginia since 1951, helping victims of accidents receive justice. Whether you’ve been hurt in a crash caused by unsafe road conditions or another person’s actions, our attorneys can help you recover compensation for your damages. With more than seven decades of experience, we are ready to guide you through the legal process and help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us for a free consultation at (866) 207-9823 to learn how we can help. Let us stand by your side during this challenging time.
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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