Fatal Two-Vehicle Collision on East Rio Road at Albemarle Square in Charlottesville, VA

Modified Date: 
Sat, 02/08/2025 - 2:32pm
Accident Date: 
Sunday, January 26, 2025

One Dead in Sunday Morning Crash at Albemarle Square

Police have released few details other than they were dispatched just before 10:30AM, and one individual was declared deceased at the scene. 

 

A devastating two-vehicle crash claimed one life on Sunday morning, January 26, 2025, at the intersection of East Rio Road and Albemarle Square in Charlottesville, Virginia. Emergency responders from the Albemarle County Police Department were dispatched to the scene just before 10:30 AM following reports of a serious collision. Upon arrival, first responders discovered a two-vehicle accident with severe damage. Tragically, one individual was pronounced deceased at the scene by emergency medical personnel. The identity of the victim is currently being withheld by authorities pending proper notification of family members. The Albemarle County Police Department has launched a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash, with additional details expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

The intersection of East Rio Road and Albemarle Square is a heavily trafficked area in Charlottesville's commercial district. East Rio Road serves as a major east-west arterial route connecting US-29 to the west with the Rio Road Shopping Center and residential communities to the east. The intersection features a coordinated traffic signal system and dedicated turn lanes to manage the substantial daily traffic volume generated by the Albemarle Square Shopping Center, nearby businesses, and commuter traffic. The area experiences peak congestion during morning and evening rush hours, as well as during weekend shopping periods, when both local and regional traffic converge at this crucial junction.

Under Virginia law, victims of motor vehicle accidents and their families have specific legal rights and protections. The Commonwealth's statute of limitations generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file personal injury claims, while wrongful death claims must typically be filed within two years of the death. Virginia follows a "contributory negligence" system, which can significantly impact compensation in accident cases. Potential compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and in cases of fatality, funeral expenses and loss of companionship. Insurance requirements in Virginia mandate minimum liability coverage of $30,000 per person and $60,000 per accident for bodily injury, along with $20,000 for property damage. An experienced Virginia personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

 

Related Resources:

  • Albemarle County Police Department: Emergency (911), Non-emergency (434-977-9041)
  • Charlottesville-Albemarle Rescue Squad: (434-295-8181)
  • Virginia Department of Transportation - Charlottesville District: (434-293-0011)
  • Virginia DMV Crash Report System: www.dmv.virginia.gov/crashes
  • Virginia State Police - Insurance Verification: (804-497-7100)
  • Virginia Victim Support Services: (888-887-3418)
Type: Car Accident