Chesterfield Fire Truck Struck by Pickup on I-95 South

CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. — Chesterfield Fire and EMS is urging drivers to remember the importance of moving over for first responders after one of its ladder trucks was struck by a pickup truck hauling a trailer early Thursday morning on Interstate 95 South.
At approximately 2 a.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16, Chesterfield Fire and EMS’ Truck 214 was positioned on the side of I-95 South, near the intersection of World War II Veterans Memorial Highway and Iron Bridge Road, as it worked to assist with an earlier accident. Tragically, while its emergency lights flashed, the truck was hit by a pickup truck towing a trailer.
The collision damaged the rear of Truck 214, but fortunately, no injuries were reported. Despite the truck’s damage, firefighters and the pickup truck’s occupants were unharmed. Chesterfield Fire and EMS are using this incident as a reminder for all drivers to obey Virginia’s Move Over Law, which requires vehicles to slow down and change lanes when approaching any emergency or roadside situation.
Virginia law mandates that when drivers see flashing lights from an emergency vehicle or tow truck, they must change lanes or, if it is not possible, reduce their speed to ensure the safety of emergency workers and others on the road. “Please help us keep our firefighters safe!” Chesterfield Fire and EMS emphasized in a Facebook post, urging all drivers to be vigilant and follow the law.
Types of Compensation at Stake for Victims
Depending on the circumstances of the collision, victims of accidents involving emergency vehicles and first responders may be eligible for various types of compensation.
Compensation for property damage, medical costs, and potential lost wages for those involved in this specific incident may be available. Although no injuries were reported in this case, accidents involving first responders often present unique challenges, particularly when emergency vehicles are damaged or struck while performing their duties.
Suppose a person is injured or their property is damaged in such an accident. In that case, they may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, including hospital bills, rehabilitation costs, and any ongoing care that may be required. Additionally, compensation could cover lost wages for those unable to work due to injuries sustained in the crash, as well as pain and suffering for the physical and emotional toll of the incident.
Victims of accidents involving emergency vehicles may also be entitled to compensation for property damage, especially in cases where a significant collision has caused extensive damage to the vehicle. Virginia law allows those affected by these kinds of accidents to seek compensation, whether they are directly involved in the collision or their property is damaged due to the circumstances of the crash.
How Latham & Martin Law Can Help
At Latham & Martin Law, we understand the complexities of accidents involving emergency vehicles and first responders. Our team is committed to ensuring victims receive the full compensation they deserve. We specialize in handling cases where negligence or failure to comply with laws, such as Virginia’s Move Over Law, may have contributed to the accident.
Suppose you or a loved one has been injured or suffered property damage in a collision involving a first responder vehicle. In that case, our experienced attorneys are here to help guide you through the legal process. We can assist in filing claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, ensuring you have the legal support you need to navigate these challenging situations.
We are dedicated to advocating for the rights of accident victims and holding responsible parties accountable. Our expertise can help secure the compensation you deserve and assist with all aspects of your claim. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you in the aftermath of an accident involving a first responder vehicle.