Ashburn, VA (January 14, 2026) – A tragic accident occurred Tuesday morning, January 13, when 20-year-old Calina Yu was struck and killed by a Loudoun County Public Schools maintenance vehicle while crossing the intersection of Claiborne Parkway and Portsmouth Boulevard. The accident took place at 9 a.m., and Yu was pronounced dead at the scene.
According to police, the maintenance vehicle, driven by a school district employee, struck Yu while she was crossing the road. The driver stayed at the scene and cooperated with authorities. The vehicle was inspected for damage and later towed away.
The investigation into this fatal crash remains open.
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Calina Yu during this incredibly difficult time, and we extend our deepest condolences to all affected by this tragedy.
What is the Statute of Limitations for a Fatal Accident in Virginia?
In Virginia, the statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim is two years from the date of the fatal accident. This means that surviving family members have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit seeking compensation for the loss of their loved one. It is crucial to file within this time frame, as missing the deadline can result in the loss of the right to pursue a claim.
Virginia law allows the following individuals to file a wrongful death claim:
- Spouse – A surviving spouse can file a claim for the loss of their partner.
- Children – Children of the deceased, both minor and adult, can file a claim.
- Parents – If the deceased person was unmarried and had no children, their parents can file the claim.
If the deceased person had a valid will, the estate’s executor or administrator can also file a claim on behalf of the surviving family members. This person is responsible for managing the deceased’s estate and ensuring that any damages awarded are distributed accordingly.
It is essential to consult with a wrongful death attorney as soon as possible after the loss of a loved one. A lawyer can guide the family through the legal process, help ensure that the claim is filed within the appropriate time frame, and seek compensation for damages such as funeral expenses, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
In cases involving government entities, like a school district vehicle, the process can be more complex. Virginia’s sovereign immunity laws may affect how the case proceeds, and an attorney can provide valuable insight into how to navigate these circumstances.
If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal accident in Virginia, help is available. At Blaszkow Legal, we represent victims of fatal accidents across Virginia.
Our experienced team is here to help you understand your legal options and guide you through the claims process. Contact Blaszkow Legal at (703) 879-5910 to arrange a free consultation.
Note: When creating these blog posts, our team of writers utilizes external sources, including local and state news sources, social media platforms, police accident incident reports, state police accident reports, and, at times, eyewitness accounts. Please contact us immediately if you discover any incorrect information so that we can update the post with the most current, accurate information available.
Disclaimer: This post is not a business solicitation, and none of the information provided in this blog post should be interpreted as medical or legal advice. If you have been injured in an accident, seek immediate medical attention. This post’s featured image was not captured at the actual accident scene.
