Lancaster County, VA — January 30th, 2024, One person was killed and another was injured following a car accident that occurred around 8:42 P.M. on Greentown Rd.

An investigation is underway following a car accident that left one person dead and another injured during the evening hours of January 30th. According to official reports, a Chevy S-10 operated by Irvin Yerby with Martha Veney as passenger were traveling in the area of Greentown Road near Gaskin Road when for unknown reasons the vehicle lost control and rolled multiple times ejecting the driver and the trucks passenger.

When first responders arrived on the scene they found that both Yerby and Veney were seriously injured and transported to the hospital for treatment where Yerby later succumbed to his injuries, and Veney remains in critical condition. More details from the accident and the status of Veney may be released by authorities in the future.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When a vehicle rolls over, people often assume that speed or driver input was the primary cause. But in my experience, these crashes can be far more complex than they appear. To fully understand what happened on Greentown Road, three key questions must be asked: Did authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect played a role? And has all relevant electronic data been collected? These questions help ensure that every possible factor is examined rather than relying on assumptions.

The first issue is whether investigators are conducting a comprehensive review of the crash. Reports state that the Chevy S-10 “lost control” before rolling multiple times, but the real question is why. Were there hazardous road conditions, such as sharp curves, loose gravel, or standing water? Did another vehicle’s movement contribute to the loss of control? In rollover crashes, it’s also crucial to consider whether the roadway itself played a role—was there an uneven drop-off at the road’s edge that could have destabilized the vehicle? These details should be carefully examined to ensure no contributing factors are overlooked.

Another critical question is whether a mechanical issue played a role. Rollovers are often associated with instability in taller vehicles like SUVs and trucks, but even a light pickup like the Chevy S-10 can be vulnerable under certain conditions. Were the tires in good condition, or did a sudden blowout cause the loss of control? Was there an issue with the suspension or steering system? These kinds of defects are rarely investigated unless someone specifically requests a forensic examination of the vehicle before it is repaired or scrapped.

The final question concerns electronic data. The Chevy S-10 likely contains an electronic control module (ECM) that could provide crucial information about speed, braking, and steering input in the moments leading up to the crash. This data could help determine whether the vehicle responded as expected or if something unusual occurred. Additionally, security camera footage from nearby businesses or residences may provide visual evidence of how the crash unfolded. If investigators don’t secure this information quickly, key evidence may be lost.

At the core of any crash investigation is the need for clear answers. A rollover crash that results in ejections raises serious questions about vehicle stability and crashworthiness, in addition to external factors like road conditions. Whether the cause was an environmental factor, a mechanical failure, or another unexpected event, the least we owe those affected is a complete and careful examination of all the available evidence.