Richmond County, VA – A serious crash involving a distracted driver and a horse-drawn buggy left seven people injured, including two who required airlift to a hospital, authorities reported on Sunday afternoon. The incident highlights the importance of cautious driving, especially in rural areas where Amish buggies are common on the road.
The Crash Details
Virginia State Police responded to the collision at the intersection of Route 3 and Calvary Church Road just before 3:45 p.m. Sgt. Jessica B. Shehan confirmed the location is near the historic Calvary United Methodist Church in Warsaw, a well-known landmark in the region.
According to troopers, a 38-year-old woman from Lancaster County, driving a Nissan sedan, struck an Amish buggy traveling along Route 3. The buggy was driven by a 44-year-old man from Warsaw and was carrying seven passengers at the time of the crash.
The force of the collision caused serious injuries to two of the buggy’s occupants, who were immediately medflighted to a nearby hospital for urgent care, as per WTVR. The five remaining passengers were treated on-site for non-life-threatening injuries, according to officials.
Driver and Investigation
Authorities stated the driver was distracted at the time of the crash, though she showed no signs of impairment. Charges are pending, and the Virginia State Police continue to investigate the incident to determine all contributing factors.
This crash serves as a reminder to drivers to remain vigilant, particularly in rural areas where slower-moving vehicles such as horse-drawn buggies share the road with modern automobiles. Troopers emphasize the dangers of distracted driving, which can have life-threatening consequences even at low speeds.
Location Context
Richmond County, situated in Virginia’s picturesque Northern Neck, is approximately 60 miles east of Richmond, about a 1-hour 15-minute drive. The county is known for its scenic landscapes, agricultural areas, and Amish communities, whose horse-drawn buggies are a common sight on local roads.
Residents and travelers in the area are advised to:
- Slow down and watch for horse-drawn buggies, especially on rural routes
- Avoid distractions while driving, including mobile phones
- Yield to slow-moving vehicles and maintain a safe following distance
- Stay alert at intersections, as collisions often occur when drivers fail to notice slower traffic
Community Impact
The crash has raised concerns among local residents about road safety in areas with Amish buggies and other slow-moving vehicles. Authorities encourage community members to report unsafe driving and to educate new drivers about rural road hazards.
Have you driven in areas with horse-drawn buggies? How do you stay safe on rural roads? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
