Bedford Co, VA – One Killed in Head-on Crash on White House Rd
Bedford Co., VA (March 26, 2025) – A deadly crash in Bedford County claimed the life of one man and left another person injured Monday evening, according to Virginia State Police.
The two-vehicle collision took place at approximately 7:10 p.m. on March 24 along White House Road, roughly half a mile east of Sleepy Hollow Road. Investigators say a 1995 Chevrolet 1500 pickup was heading east when it crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a 2000 Lexus traveling west.
Authorities identified the driver of the Chevrolet as 65-year-old Chester Lee Bates of Moneta. He was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Lexus sustained injuries and was transported to an area hospital for medical treatment. Details on the extent of their injuries have not been publicly released.
Virginia State Police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The section of White House Road where the crash occurred was closed for several hours Monday evening as officials worked to clear the wreckage and reconstruct the scene.
We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Chester Lee Bates. We hope the injured victim experiences a smooth and full recovery.
Car Accidents in Virginia
Car crashes remain one of the leading causes of injury and death across Virginia. According to data from the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, more than 120,000 traffic crashes occurred in the state in a recent year, resulting in thousands of serious injuries and over 800 fatalities. Head-on collisions, although less frequent, are particularly dangerous due to the force of impact and often result in severe outcomes.
There are many contributing factors to crashes like this. Here’s a closer look at one key issue:
Seatbelt Use and Fatalities: Seatbelts are proven to significantly reduce the risk of death in a crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly half of all fatal crash victims in the U.S. were not wearing seatbelts. In Virginia, despite public awareness efforts, a portion of fatal crash victims each year are found unrestrained. In head-on impacts especially, the absence of a seatbelt can be the difference between life and death.
Vehicle Age and Safety Features: Older vehicles, such as the 1995 Chevrolet involved in this crash, often lack modern safety features like advanced airbags, stability control, or collision avoidance systems. These features have become increasingly important in preventing injuries and fatalities, especially during frontal collisions.
Lane Departure and Driver Error: Crossing the centerline is a major cause of head-on crashes. Factors such as distracted driving, drowsiness, or medical emergencies can all contribute to this type of lane departure. In rural areas like Bedford County, winding roads and limited visibility can also increase the risk.
Impact of Rural Road Conditions: Crashes in rural areas often result in more severe injuries due to higher speeds, delayed EMS response times, and limited lighting. Drivers on rural roads should remain especially alert and cautious.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Virginia, it’s important to contact a trusted legal advocate. Our Bedford County wrongful death attorney can help protect your rights and ensure no critical steps are missed in your pursuit of justice or compensation. Timing matters in these cases, and acting quickly can preserve valuable evidence and strengthen your claim.
At Blaszkow Legal, PLLC, we offer free consultations for crash victims and their families. If you were hurt in a car accident or lost someone you love, reach out to our caring legal team. Call us at 703-879-5910 to speak directly with someone who understands what you’re going through. Our firm has experience handling complex accident cases throughout Virginia. We take time to explain your rights, guide you through your next steps, and fight for the compensation you may be owed. You deserve answers and support. Let us help you start moving forward today.
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.