Staunton, VA – Woman Killed in Auto Wreck on I-81 near VA-262
Staunton, VA (April 2, 2025) - A Staunton woman lost her life Tuesday afternoon in a crash involving a tractor-trailer at a busy interchange along Woodrow Wilson Parkway.
On April 1, Virginia State Police were called to the intersection of the northbound I-81 off-ramp (Exit 225) and Va. 262, where a 2020 Hyundai SUV traveling southbound struck a tractor-trailer attempting to turn onto the northbound side of the parkway. The SUV became lodged beneath the trailer after the impact.
The driver of the SUV, identified as 57-year-old Cynthia Dean of Staunton, tragically died at the scene. Authorities reported that she was unable to avoid the truck, which had exited I-81 and pulled into her path. Emergency crews arrived swiftly, but she was pronounced deceased before she could be transported.
The driver of the tractor-trailer, identified as Sayed Hamidullah from Omaha, Nebraska, did not suffer injuries. Virginia State Police charged him with reckless driving in connection to the incident. Investigators are continuing to gather information to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Cynthia Dean.
Truck Accidents in Virginia
Accidents involving tractor-trailers and large trucks in Virginia frequently result in life-altering injuries or tragic loss of life. According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, over 2,300 large truck crashes occurred statewide last year, many of them on interstates and major parkways. Due to the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles, these collisions often have catastrophic outcomes.
In the aftermath of these types of crashes, here are a few key things to understand:
Injury Types Can Be Severe: Victims of truck accidents often suffer from traumatic brain injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, or spinal cord injuries. These injuries typically require long-term treatment and rehabilitation. Recovery can also bring emotional trauma and financial strain to both the victim and their family.
Driver Fatigue Is a Leading Factor: Many truck accidents happen when drivers are fatigued or drowsy from long hours behind the wheel. Federal regulations limit how long drivers can operate without rest, but these rules are not always followed, leading to dangerous conditions on the road.
Improper Turns Are Common Causes: When truck drivers make wide or improper turns—like in this case where a driver crossed traffic to turn onto a busy roadway—it can result in collisions with vehicles that are unable to stop in time. These types of crashes are especially hazardous at highway intersections.
Investigations Are Complex: Commercial vehicle accidents typically involve multiple parties, including the driver, trucking company, insurance carriers, and regulatory bodies. This makes the investigative process longer and more complicated than typical car crashes.
If you’ve been hurt or lost a loved one in a truck crash, it's vital to reach out to a Staunton truck accident attorney as soon as possible. Speaking with a legal team right away can help ensure that your rights are protected from the start. Evidence in these cases can disappear quickly, and trucking companies may move quickly to minimize their liability. Having someone on your side early on can make all the difference.
If you or your family member was impacted by this truck crash, the team at Blaszkow Legal, PLLC is here to support you. Our Staunton truck accident lawyers offer free consultations and are ready to help you understand your legal options. We know how to investigate serious truck accidents and stand up for victims’ rights. Whether you need help accessing medical care, navigating insurance claims, or pursuing financial recovery, we are prepared to assist. Call us at 703-879-5910 today. You don’t have to face this alone—our team is here for you every step of the way.
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.