Newport News, VA (January 11, 2025) – A 23-year-old woman sustained injuries early Friday morning, January 10, after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 64 in Newport News.
The incident occurred around 2:55 a.m. in the eastbound lanes of the interstate. Virginia State Police responded to the scene and identified the injured woman as Lela Evangeline Butler. Reports indicate that Butler had been driving eastbound when she pulled over onto the shoulder of the highway. She exited her vehicle and attempted to cross the interstate to search for her dog, which she believed had jumped out of her car.
While crossing the roadway, Butler was struck by a 2017 Hyundai Genesis. Emergency medical personnel quickly arrived, and Butler was transported to Riverside Hospital to receive treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Hyundai remained on the scene and cooperated with authorities.
The crash is still under investigation as officials work to determine the full circumstances of the incident.
We wish Lela Evangeline Butler a quick recovery from her injuries.
Pedestrian Accidents in Virginia
Virginia experiences a significant number of pedestrian-related accidents annually, particularly in high-traffic areas such as interstates and urban centers. According to state data, over 1,400 pedestrian crashes occur each year, resulting in injuries to more than 1,200 people and approximately 100 fatalities. Incidents involving pedestrians often result in severe or life-threatening injuries due to the lack of physical protection.
Here are some common risks and challenges associated with pedestrian accidents:
- Poor Visibility: Pedestrians crossing roads during low-light hours, such as early morning or late at night, are at higher risk of being struck. Drivers may have difficulty spotting them in time to react.
- Distractions: Drivers and pedestrians alike may become distracted by phones, GPS devices, or other activities, increasing the likelihood of accidents.
- Roadside Emergencies: Pulling over onto the shoulders of highways or interstates, as seen in this case, creates dangerous scenarios for both pedestrians and oncoming vehicles.
- Failure to Use Crosswalks: Pedestrians who cross roads outside of designated areas are more likely to be involved in accidents, especially on busy interstates where traffic moves at high speeds.
Victims injured in pedestrian accidents should seek medical care and consult with an attorney to understand their legal rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, contacting a Newport News pedestrian accident attorney can help you navigate the aftermath. Attorneys are equipped to investigate the details of your case, handle communication with insurance companies, and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress. Acting quickly to secure legal help is critical to protecting your rights.
At Blank & Marcus, our experienced legal team is dedicated to advocating for victims of pedestrian accidents in Virginia. We understand how overwhelming the recovery process can be, and we’re here to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us today at (866) 207-9823 for a free consultation. We will take the time to review your case, answer your questions, and provide personalized legal advice. Don’t face the aftermath of an accident alone—contact our team today 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.
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.