Getting behind the wheel is something most of us do every day without giving it a second thought. But the truth is, car accidents are far more common than many people realize—and in Virginia, they happen every single day. Some accidents are unavoidable, but many are caused by the same few dangerous behaviors that show up again and again on our roads.
At the Parrish Law Firm, we’ve helped thousands of Virginians navigate the aftermath of serious accidents. And because we’ve seen these cases up close, we know the most common causes—and how you can protect yourself.
Here’s what you need to know about the leading causes of car accidents in Virginia, what role distracted driving and speeding play, and how to stay safe out there.
What Are the Most Common Causes of Car Accidents in Virginia?
While every accident is unique, most can be traced back to a handful of repeat issues. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) tracks crash statistics, and year after year, the top causes stay the same.
The most common causes of car accidents in Virginia include:
- Distracted Driving
- Speeding
- Following Too Closely
- Failure to Yield
- Improper Lane Changes
- Running Red Lights or Stop Signs
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
- Drowsy Driving
- Weather-Related Conditions (Rain, Ice, Fog)
Let’s take a closer look at a few of these—and how you can avoid becoming a statistic.
What Role Does Distracted Driving Play in Car Accidents in Virginia?
This one tops the list, and it’s easy to see why. We live in a world full of distractions—texts, emails, GPS directions, playlists, even fast food behind the wheel.
But taking your eyes off the road for just a few seconds can change your life—or someone else’s—forever.
In Virginia, distracted driving is a major factor in thousands of accidents every year.
It includes:
- Texting while driving
- Eating or drinking
- Adjusting the radio or climate control
- Using a navigation app
- Talking to passengers or turning around to check on kids
In fact, Virginia passed a hands-free driving law in 2021 making it illegal to hold a phone while driving. And yet, many drivers still do.
How to avoid it:
- Use voice commands or pull over to use your phone.
- Set up your music and GPS before you start driving.
- If you’re too tired or stressed to focus, it’s okay to wait before getting behind the wheel.
We tell clients all the time: one text isn’t worth a lifetime of regret.
How Does Speeding Contribute to Car Accidents in Virginia?
Speeding doesn’t just make accidents more likely—it makes them more severe.
Whether it’s on I-95, Route 66, or a neighborhood backroad, speeding reduces a driver’s ability to react, stop in time, or maneuver around a sudden obstacle. It also increases the force of impact in a crash, which means greater injury and damage.
In Virginia, speeding is a factor in over 25% of all fatal crashes.
Many people don’t realize that in Virginia, driving 20+ mph over the speed limit or going over 85 mph—even on the highway—is classified as reckless driving, a criminal offense.
How to stay safe:
- Obey posted speed limits, especially in construction zones and residential areas.
- Leave earlier to avoid rushing.
- Watch for speed limit changes on rural or hilly roads.
- Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed.
Speed limits exist for a reason, and driving “a little over” can be the difference between a near-miss and a devastating crash.
How Can I Avoid Being Involved in a Car Accident in Virginia?
While you can’t control how others drive, you can take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones.
Here are some practical ways to lower your risk:
- Stay focused: Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel. Avoid multitasking.
- Maintain a safe following distance: Tailgating reduces your reaction time and increases the chance of a rear-end collision.
- Use turn signals: Letting others know your intentions reduces the risk of sideswipes and merging accidents.
- Don’t drive drowsy: Fatigue impairs your judgment and reaction time. If you’re tired, pull over or switch drivers.
- Adjust for weather: Rain, fog, and icy conditions are common in Virginia. Slow down and increase following distances in poor weather.
- Watch for red-light runners: Always look both ways before entering an intersection, even on a green light.
- Avoid aggressive driving: Cutting people off, weaving in traffic, or road rage can escalate situations quickly.
It’s also a good idea to keep your car in good condition—check brakes, tires, and lights regularly.
How Can I Stay Safe on the Roads in Virginia?
Beyond just driving carefully, staying safe also means being aware of your environment and expecting the unexpected.
A few additional safety tips:
- Scan ahead: Watch for brake lights, stopped traffic, or debris in the road.
- Be extra cautious around large trucks and motorcycles: Give them space and avoid blind spots.
- Limit night driving when possible: Reduced visibility and more impaired drivers make night driving riskier.
- Buckle up—always: Seat belts save lives. It’s one of the simplest and most effective safety measures you can take.
- Stay calm behind the wheel: Frustration and anger don’t mix with driving. If another driver cuts you off or tailgates, let it go.
You don’t have to be perfect—but driving with awareness and intention can significantly reduce your chances of being involved in a serious crash.
What Should I Do If I’ve Been in a Car Accident in Virginia?
Even if you follow all the rules, accidents still happen. And when they do, they can change everything in an instant—physically, emotionally, and financially.
If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by someone else’s negligence, the most important thing you can do is understand your rights.
At the Parrish Law Firm, we help accident victims:
- Get their medical bills paid
- Recover lost wages from time off work
- Deal with insurance companies
- Pursue compensation for pain and suffering
- Hold negligent drivers accountable
Our founder, Jim Parrish, used to work for the insurance companies—and now he uses that inside knowledge to protect the people they try to take advantage of.
We’re not just here to handle the legal process. We’re here to make everything easier for you while you heal.
Contact the Parrish Law Firm for a FREE Car Accident Consultation
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a car accident, don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact the Parrish Law Firm today for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Here’s what you’ll get when you call us:
- A clear, honest review of your case
- No pressure, no fees unless we win
- Help dealing with medical bills and insurance adjusters
- A team that listens, cares, and fights for what you deserve
Call the Parrish Law Firm today and let us take the legal weight off your shoulders—so you can focus on getting better.
Your path to recovery starts with one simple step. Let’s take it together.
Call or Text (571) 229-1800 or Complete a Free Case Evaluation form
