Petersburg, VA (April 24, 2025) – Emergency crews were called late Wednesday night to a major tractor trailer crash that significantly disrupted traffic on Interstate 95 South in the City of Petersburg. According to Virginia 511, the incident occurred at approximately 11:56 p.m. on April 23, near mile marker 51.8.
Authorities reported that the crash led to the closure of the southbound left shoulder, left lane, and center lane, causing extensive traffic delays for motorists traveling through the area. Details about how the crash occurred have not yet been released, and it is unclear how many vehicles were involved or whether there were any injuries.
State police and other emergency responders worked through the night to manage traffic, assist at the crash site, and begin clearing the roadway. As of early Thursday morning, congestion was still being reported, and drivers were advised to seek alternate routes until the scene was fully cleared.
No estimates were provided on how long the affected lanes would remain closed, and the incident remains under active investigation.
We hope for the safety of everyone involved in this incident and thank the emergency responders for their overnight efforts.
Truck Accidents and Traffic Impacts in Virginia
Crashes involving large commercial trucks, such as the overnight incident on I-95 in Petersburg, often result in significant traffic disruptions and heightened risks for other motorists. With the volume of commercial traffic flowing through Virginia’s interstates, especially I-95—a major East Coast corridor—tractor-trailer crashes are a frequent and dangerous occurrence.
Tractor-trailers require longer stopping distances and are more prone to rollover or jackknife incidents, especially at high speeds or during lane changes. When such vehicles crash, the aftermath can be severe, not only due to the potential for injuries but also the logistics involved in clearing large wrecks from major highways.
In this case, the closure of multiple lanes and the left shoulder suggests a significant impact, both structurally and operationally. These types of events often prompt coordinated responses between local police, fire departments, VDOT personnel, and specialized towing services.
For motorists, crashes like this serve as a reminder of the importance of caution when driving near large vehicles and of heeding travel advisories. Delays can last for hours, and secondary accidents may occur when drivers attempt to bypass congested routes without proper planning.
While it is fortunate that no injuries have yet been reported, the economic impact, traffic ripple effects, and potential for hazardous material spills make these incidents a high priority for transportation safety officials.
In the wake of serious traffic disruptions, it’s essential that affected individuals have access to timely information and support. Local Accident Reports is dedicated to providing real-time updates and connecting those impacted by highway incidents with critical recovery and legal resources. If you’ve been involved in a crash or affected by delays caused by a serious accident, contact us today for assistance and next-step guidance.
