Why I-64 Lanes Closed at Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel [Hampton, VA]

The eastbound I-64 lanes were closed for several hours on Monday afternoon, causing significant delays at the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) announced that the closure was due to unplanned roadwork on the Willoughby Bay Bridge. The work was initiated shortly after 1 p.m., leading to the closure of the eastbound lanes. As a result, traffic was diverted off I-64 at Settlers Landing Road in Hampton.

By 4:15 p.m., VDOT had reopened all lanes, alleviating the congestion that had built up over the afternoon. According to VDOT spokesperson Paula Miller, the closure was critical to safely remove an overhead sign structure struck by a piece of equipment working nearby. While the sign had not fallen or posed an immediate threat, VDOT decided to remove it as a precautionary measure.

Unplanned Roadwork and Safety Measures

The incident that led to the I-64 lanes being closed stemmed from the operation of equipment on the Willoughby Bay Bridge. A piece of machinery accidentally struck the overhead sign structure, raising concerns about the integrity and stability of the sign. Although the sign wasn’t dangling or visibly unstable, VDOT officials decided that the safest course of action was to remove it entirely.

The removal of the sign required careful planning and execution, which necessitated the closure of the I-64 lanes for several hours. VDOT’s proactive approach ensured that the situation didn’t escalate, and the removal was completed without incident. The closure, while inconvenient for commuters, was crucial to maintaining safety on the heavily trafficked road.

Impact on Traffic and Commuters

The closure of I-64 lanes caused traffic to back up significantly, especially since it took place during the afternoon hours when many drivers were on the road. Commuters had to take alternate routes, resulting in heavy congestion on nearby roads.

VDOT rerouted traffic to Settlers Landing Road in Hampton, which became a critical detour point during the closure. Despite the challenges faced by drivers, the closure and subsequent removal of the sign structure were necessary to ensure the safety of everyone traveling on the bridge.

By the time the lanes reopened around 4:15 p.m., traffic had returned to normal, though many drivers faced significant delays. While VDOT was quick to resolve the issue, the closure serves as a reminder of how quickly unexpected roadwork can disrupt daily travel.

Compensation for Victims of Traffic Delays and Accidents

In situations where road closures result from unplanned incidents or construction, victims of related traffic accidents may be entitled to compensation. Accidents caused by sudden closures or detours can lead to significant injuries, property damage, and other financial burdens. For those affected by these circumstances, seeking legal guidance is crucial.

At Breit Law Attorneys, we specialize in assisting victims of traffic accidents and delays caused by unplanned roadwork and closures like the I-64 lane incident. Our experienced attorneys are dedicated to helping clients recover the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. We understand the complexities of navigating insurance claims and legal processes, and our team is ready to stand by your side every step of the way.

Our firm will conduct a thorough investigation to determine if negligence played a role in the road closure or accident, ensuring that you have the best possible chance of securing fair compensation. We encourage those affected to reach out to us for a consultation, as we are committed to holding responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Conclusion

The closure of the I-64 lanes at the Hampton Roads Bridge-Tunnel was an unfortunate but necessary measure to ensure public safety. The swift response from VDOT prevented a potential hazard from escalating, and by the afternoon, traffic returned to normal. However, such incidents highlight the risks associated with unplanned roadwork, and for those impacted.

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Note: Our law office relies on external sources for the content of this post. Although we aim for accuracy, we have not independently verified all facts related to this incident. Should you identify any inaccuracies, please notify Breit Law Attorneys for corrections. Posts will be removed upon request.

Disclaimer: The content of this post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute a solicitation for business. The information contained herein is not intended to offer legal or medical advice. If you or someone you care about has been injured in an accident, it is recommended to seek immediate medical assistance. The photo featured in this post was not taken at the actual scene of the accident

Source: The Virginian Pilot