Gordonsville, VA (December 18, 2024) – A tragic head-on collision on James Madison Highway south of Gordonsville early Tuesday morning claimed the lives of two adults and left a teenager seriously injured. The accident occurred around 4:05 a.m. in the 4600 block of the highway.
Virginia State Police identified the deceased as 57-year-old Kenneth Justino Rowley of Louisa and 45-year-old Wade Lee Dickinson of Gordonsville. An 18-year-old passenger, Kaleb Reese Dickinson, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment.
Authorities reported that Rowley, driving a 2002 Mazda sedan, was traveling north on the highway when his vehicle crossed the centerline and collided head-on with a 2001 Toyota Corolla driven by Wade Dickinson. Kaleb Dickinson was a passenger in the Toyota. Police confirmed that Rowley was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, while Wade Dickinson was not.
The investigation into the collision is ongoing as police work to determine the circumstances that led to this devastating crash.
Head-On Collisions in Virginia
Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of accidents, often resulting in catastrophic outcomes, as seen in this tragic incident on James Madison Highway. In Virginia, these crashes commonly occur on two-lane roads when a driver crosses the centerline due to factors such as fatigue, distraction, or speeding.
To reduce the risk of head-on collisions, drivers are encouraged to:
- Remain alert and focused on the road at all times.
- Obey speed limits and avoid risky maneuvers like passing on curves or hills.
- Wear seat belts to minimize injury risk during accidents.
For victims and their families, the aftermath of a head-on collision can be emotionally and financially overwhelming, with medical bills, funeral expenses, and legal complexities adding to the burden.
Local Accident Reports provides compassionate assistance and valuable resources to help those affected by accidents navigate the recovery process. Contact us today for expert guidance tailored to your specific situation and take the first step toward reclaiming stability after a tragic event.