Speeding Driver Causes Fiery Multi-Vehicle Crash Inside Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel [HAMPTON, VA]

A reckless driving incident inside the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel (HRBT) brought traffic on Interstate 64 eastbound to a standstill in the early morning hours of Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026. According to Virginia State Police, a speeding Dodge Charger struck two other vehicles inside the tunnel, became airborne, and caught fire — leaving the driver injured and facing criminal charges.

What Happened Inside the HRBT on May 25, 2026

Virginia State Police responded to the crash at approximately 4:38 a.m. on I-64 eastbound inside the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. Investigators determined that a Dodge Charger was traveling at excessive speed when it struck an SUV and a box truck. The force of the collision caused the Charger to go airborne before it came down and caught fire.

The driver of the Charger was injured in the crash and was transported to an area hospital for treatment. VSP charged the driver with reckless driving. The crash remained under investigation as of Monday, according to state police. During the emergency response, traffic on the bridge was redirected to the Settlers Landing Road exit at Exit 267.

Who May Be Liable After a Crash Like This

When a driver operates a vehicle at reckless speeds and causes a collision that injures other people, Virginia law may allow injured victims to pursue a personal injury claim separate from any criminal charges. Reckless driving — especially when it results in harm to others — can serve as the foundation for a civil negligence case, potentially allowing victims to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Multi-vehicle crashes like this one can also raise questions about liability beyond the at-fault driver. If other occupants were injured, each may have individual claims. The involvement of a box truck raises additional questions that an attorney would evaluate, such as whether the commercial vehicle’s operator or owner bears any responsibility.

It is also worth noting that Virginia follows a contributory negligence rule — one of the strictest liability standards in the country. Under this rule, if an injured person is found to share even a small percentage of fault, they may be barred entirely from recovering compensation. This makes early legal guidance especially important.

What Should You Do If You Were Injured in This Crash or a Similar One

If you or someone you love was involved in this crash or any serious accident in Hampton Roads, there are steps you can take to protect your rights. Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor. Avoid giving detailed statements to insurance companies before speaking with an attorney. Document everything you can — the location, the time, any visible damage, and the names of anyone involved.

Virginia has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, so time matters. The sooner you speak with an experienced Virginia personal injury attorney, the better positioned you will be to preserve evidence and build a strong case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Reckless Driving Crashes in Virginia

Can I sue a driver who was charged with reckless driving in Virginia? Yes. A criminal charge for reckless driving and a civil personal injury lawsuit are separate legal matters. A conviction or guilty plea can support your civil claim, but you do not need to wait for the criminal case to resolve before pursuing compensation.

What if I was a passenger in one of the other vehicles? Passengers injured in a crash caused by another driver generally have a strong basis for a personal injury claim. You may be able to seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance, and in some cases from your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Does the location inside a tunnel affect my claim? The location of a crash — including inside a state-maintained tunnel — can affect certain aspects of a claim, particularly if road conditions or infrastructure played any role. An attorney familiar with Virginia personal injury law can evaluate whether any additional parties bear responsibility.

Injured in Hampton Roads? Breit Law Can Help

If you or a loved one was injured in a serious car accident in Hampton or anywhere across Hampton Roads, Breit Law is here to help. We proudly serve injury victims throughout Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, and all of southeastern Virginia. With more than 47 years of trial experience, William Breit has fought for the rights of seriously injured Virginians — and he is not afraid to take your case to court. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Source: WTVR

Hampton Roads Bridge Tunnel where the accident occurred