Where Do Most Car Accidents Happen in Virginia Beach?

Whether you’re a resident of Virginia Beach or just visiting, it’s a good idea to be aware of the most dangerous areas of the city for car accidents. Most car accidents in Virginia Beach are concentrated on State Route 225 near the intersections of Interstate 264 and Virginia Beach Blvd. In 2024, this area alone saw nearly 600 accidents as well as hundreds of additional accidents within a few square miles. Read on for more of the latest statistics on car accidents in Virginia Beach.

An Overview of Car Accident Statistics and Trends in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach and its surrounding communities contribute to the highest concentration of car accidents in the state. According to the latest data from Virginia’s Traffic Records Electronic Data System, in 2024, Virginia Beach saw a total of 5,272 car accidents with 2,618 injuries and 24 fatalities. Compared to 2023, fatalities decreased by 50%, though the overall number of accidents and injuries remained close, with 5,194 total crashes, 2,578 injuries, and 36 lives lost.

The good news is that over the past few years, the incidence of Virginia Beach car crashes has steadily dropped. Below is a table that demonstrates this trend:

What Time of Day Do Most Virginia Beach Car Accidents Happen?

Recent data shows that there are certain periods of the day during which car accidents are more likely—but they may not be what you expect. The most dangerous time of day for drivers is during the lunchtime rush hour (noon to 3:00 p.m.) and the hours leading up to 6:00 p.m. These timeframes accounted for nearly half of all accidents in Virginia Beach in 2024. In contrast, the safest time to drive is generally between 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. During this period in 2024, there were only 112 accidents, 55 injuries, and no fatalities.

What Are the Most Dangerous Intersections in Virginia Beach?

As mentioned previously, the most dangerous intersections in Virginia Beach are the intersections of State Route 225 and I-264 (with nearly 250 accidents in 2024) and the intersection of 225 and 58 (with about 150). This is without mentioning the hundreds of additional accidents that took place within the surrounding area.

But the highways and interstates in Virginia Beach aren’t the only intersections that drivers need to be concerned about. When looking at local streets, Rosemont Rd. typically attracts a large number of accidents, especially at the intersections of Holland Rd., Plaza Trail, and Lynnhaven Parkway. The downtown intersections of Pacific Ave and 21st and 22nd are also worth watching out for.

Why Are Intersections Dangerous?

Intersections are one of the most dangerous areas on a road primarily because they are places where varying speeds converge on a single point. This means that any divergence from traffic laws can be much more consequential. For example, if one driver is tailgating another and the light turns red, there’s less time for the tailgating driver to stop, increasing the chance of a collision. Intersections also have a higher volume of traffic and low visibility, as well as a variety of distractions such as pedestrians and confusing signage. All of these factors can contribute to the likelihood of a traffic accident.

Intersection Safety Tips: How to Avoid a Car Accident in Virginia Beach

As we’ve seen, Virginia Beach’s intersections contribute to a significant number of accidents each year. Here are a few strategies you can take to minimize your chances of being involved in a car accident when approaching an intersection:

• Approach with caution. Gradually decrease your speed as soon as you see a yellow light so that you make a full stop at the intersection.
• Check for pedestrians. Look to ensure that there are no crossing pedestrians or cyclists before continuing through the intersection.
• Look for turning vehicles. Intersections have less visibility, which can lead some drivers to turn into oncoming traffic before it’s safe to do so.
• Avoid distractions. While it may seem like a good time to look at your GPS, you still need to remain vigilant at intersections. Avoid looking at your phone or adjusting the radio and keep distracting conversations to a minimum.
• Look both ways before crossing, even when there’s a green light. Pedestrians and other motorists may not be paying attention.
• When in doubt, yield. It may not always be clear who has the right of way at an intersection. If there’s any question, let the other driver go first.

Have You Been in a Crash? Contact Our Virginia Beach Car Accident Lawyers

While there are many ways that you can reduce your chances of getting into an accident at an intersection, the reality is that looking both ways and keeping your eyes on the road can only do so much. Regardless of how prepared you are for an accident, it won’t stop other drivers from acting negligently. If you’ve been involved in an accident, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, damage to your vehicle, and even pain and suffering.

Huffman & Huffman Brothers-in-Law has served the Virginia Beach area for over half a century and has successfully recovered millions of dollars for our clients following an accident. Our car accident lawyers are not only confident and skilled negotiators, but they are knowledgeable of local and state traffic laws that may pertain to your case. To get started, contact us for a free consultation.