Newport News, VA (March 27, 2025) – A quiet early morning commute turned chaotic when a tractor-trailer jackknifed and collided with two other vehicles along Interstate 64. The multi-vehicle wreck occurred just after sunrise, snarling traffic for hours as first responders worked to clear the scene and assist those injured.
The crash took place March 24 near mile marker 250, close to the Fort Eustis Blvd. exit. According to Virginia State Police, a 2015 Dodge Ram and a 2008 Ford Escape had slowed down in response to traffic congestion. The driver of a 2005 International tractor-trailer, later identified as Brian Bootes of New York, was unable to reduce speed in time. He struck the Dodge from behind, which then led to a collision with the Ford.
The impact caused the tractor-trailer to jackknife and block westbound lanes for a significant period. Emergency crews responded swiftly, managing traffic and ensuring that injured individuals received prompt care. The driver of the Ford Escape was transported to Riverside Regional Medical Center. Thankfully, their injuries were described as non-life-threatening. All lanes were reopened shortly after 8:00 a.m., as confirmed by the Virginia Department of Transportation. Police issued Bootes a traffic summons for following too closely.
We hope the person injured in this crash experiences a full and smooth recovery.
Truck Accidents in Virginia
Virginia sees thousands of truck-involved accidents annually, with many resulting in serious injury. In 2022 alone, there were over 2,000 crashes involving large trucks across the state. These types of collisions can be especially hazardous due to the size and weight of commercial vehicles.
Understanding what causes truck accidents can help shine a light on the dangers involved:
- Driver Fatigue: Long hours behind the wheel often leave truck drivers tired and less responsive. Federal regulations limit hours on the road, but not all companies or drivers adhere strictly to them. Drowsy driving remains one of the top causes of commercial truck crashes.
- Improper Following Distance: Large trucks need much more time and distance to come to a stop. When drivers follow too closely, especially in congested traffic, the result can be catastrophic. Tailgating in these vehicles often leads to rear-end collisions.
- Brake and Equipment Failures: Poor maintenance or faulty equipment can cause serious issues. Brake failures or tire blowouts at high speeds pose immediate dangers to everyone on the road. Routine checks and responsible upkeep are essential.
- Inexperienced or Poorly Trained Drivers: Driving an 18-wheeler requires special training and a commercial driver’s license. Unfortunately, some operators are placed behind the wheel with inadequate training, putting others at risk. This increases the chances of error in high-pressure or sudden-stop situations.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a similar incident, it’s vital to speak with a legal professional without delay. Call our Newport News truck accident attorneys to understand your rights and the steps to take next. Time-sensitive evidence and witness statements can be key to any injury claim. Don’t wait to protect your future.
Blank & Marcus, LLC, offers personalized, strategic representation for truck accident victims across Virginia. With over 45 years of combined experience, our attorneys have secured multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements for those hurt due to negligence. Founding attorney Irving M. Blank has served on various statewide legal boards and was appointed by six governors, underscoring his trusted leadership in Virginia’s legal community. We understand how overwhelming life can become after a serious crash — that’s why we’re here to take the legal burden off your shoulders. Our Newport News team is prepared to answer your questions and guide you forward. Call us at (866) 207-9823 for a free consultation and compassionate support from our dedicated legal team.
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 that the most reliable information is presented. Furthermore, requests for content removal will be respectfully addressed upon receipt.
Disclaimer: Accessing or utilizing the information provided does not create an attorney-client relationship with Blank & Marcus. We encourage readers to seek personalized advice from a qualified attorney tailored to their specific legal needs. While we make every effort to ensure the information presented is accurate and reliable, we do not guarantee its completeness, accuracy, or applicability to individual circumstances.