A serious crash inside the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel on Monday, January 5, 2026, claimed the life of one driver and injured another.
According to reports, the I-64 collision happened around 2:38 a.m. eastbound inside the tunnel. A grey Nissan Altima had blown a tire and became disabled inside the tunnel when it was struck by a red Acura MDX traveling at a high rate of speed.
The driver of the disabled Altima was ejected from the vehicle and sadly died at the scene. The driver of the Acura suffered serious injuries and was transported the hospital.
The crash forced authorities to shut down both directions of the tunnel for several hours during the morning commute, causing significant delays for Hampton Roads travelers.
Danger of Speed in Tunnel Crashes
Tunnels present unique hazards for motorists. The confined space limits escape routes when a vehicle becomes disabled, and visibility can be reduced compared to open roadways. When a vehicle breaks down inside a tunnel, reaction time and space are reduced.
Speed plays a critical role in the severity of tunnel crashes. A vehicle traveling at an excessive rate of speed has less time to identify hazards ahead and requires a much longer distance to stop. In this case, the high speed of the Acura meant the driver could not avoid the disabled Nissan in time.
The speed limit inside of the tunnel is 55 mph, and it is unknown how fast the driver of the Acura was going.
Virginia Wrongful Death Claims
When a loved one is killed in a car crash, especially one involving negligence, family members may have legal options through a Virginia wrongful death claim.
Under Virginia law, certain family members may pursue compensation for the losses stemming from a fatal accident.
These claims can address both economic and non-economic damages, including:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support and income
- Loss of companionship and guidance
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Loss of services, protection, and care
While no legal action can ever replace a loved one, a Norfolk wrongful death lawyer can help you pursue financial stability during an incredibly difficult time and hold negligent drivers accountable for their actions.
Evidence, Investigation, & Insurance Companies
Virginia State Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of this crash. Evidence gathered during the investigation may include witness statements, vehicle data recorders, tunnel surveillance footage, and accident reconstruction analysis.
For families considering legal action in such cases, obtaining this evidence is critical. Working with an experienced wrongful death attorney early can ensure that important documentation is preserved and that the full circumstances of the crash are understood.
Fatal accident claims often involve multiple insurance policies, including the at-fault driver’s liability coverage and potentially underinsured motorist coverage from the victim’s own policy.
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts or dispute liability, even in cases where excessive speed is clearly a factor. Families should be cautious about engaging with insurance adjusters without legal representation, as statements made early in the process can affect the value of a claim.
Norfolk Wrongful Death Attorneys
Losing a loved one in a preventable crash is devastating. Our attorneys understand the emotional and financial toll these tragedies take on families.
We can handle the legal complexities of a wrongful death claim, communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, and pursue full compensation for a family’s losses.
If your family has been affected by a fatal crash in Virginia, we’re here to help you understand your rights and options.
Call 757-233-0009, chat with us, or email us to set up for free consultation with our the wrongful death lawyers at the Law Offices of Richard J. Serpe, PC.
