In a troubling trend that highlights the dangers on Alabama roadways, Montgomery County reported at least 75 vehicle crashes during a single three-day period from February 28 through March 2, 2025.
According to data from safety.aladata.com, this was the highest number in the state for that weekend—surpassing even Mobile County’s 57 crashes during Mardi Gras celebrations.
The sheer volume of crashes in Montgomery County dwarfed the numbers in other populous Alabama counties, including Madison (39), Jefferson (37), and Lee (33).
The contrast with neighboring counties in the River Region was even more stark, with Autauga County reporting just 1 crash and Elmore County logging only 4 incidents during the same period.
Five Major Crashes That Shut Down Alabama Highways
Among the numerous weekend accidents, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) responded to five particularly severe crashes across central Alabama that were serious enough to shut down lanes on interstates and major roadways:
- A multi-vehicle crash on February 28 at 7:11 a.m. temporarily blocked all lanes of Alabama 14 near the 183-mile marker in Elmore County.
- The fatal accident on March 1 at 4:25 a.m. on Interstate 65 in Montgomery County claimed the life of Grammy-nominated R&B and soul singer Angie Stone. According to ALEA, the tragic sequence began when Stone’s Mercedes-Benz van overturned near the 162-mile marker, approximately five miles south of Montgomery’s city limits. Following the initial crash, the van was struck by a commercial vehicle. The collision killed Stone and left the van’s eight other occupants injured. Both northbound and southbound interstate lanes were temporarily closed.
- A two-vehicle crash on March 1 at 6:18 p.m. blocked the southbound lane of Alabama 165 near Sweetwater Branch Road in Russell County.
- A single-vehicle crash on March 2 at 6:58 a.m. temporarily shut down the southbound lane of Interstate 85 near the 35-mile marker in Macon County.
- A single-vehicle crash on March 2 at 8:59 a.m. temporarily shut down southbound lanes of Interstate 65 near the 218-mile marker in Chilton County.
All five incidents remain under investigation by ALEA.
Is This Weekend Crash Volume Unusual for Alabama?
While the number may seem alarming, ALEA Senior Trooper Joshua Thompson provided context: “I would say it’s pretty average, or maybe a little higher than average. I wouldn’t necessarily say it’s an extreme rise.”
This statement highlights a concerning reality—such a high volume of crashes has become normalized in central Alabama, particularly in Montgomery County.
The regularity of these incidents underscores the ongoing safety challenges on Alabama roadways and the continued need for vigilance behind the wheel.
Personal Injury Implications for Alabama Drivers
From a personal injury perspective, the high frequency of vehicle crashes in Montgomery County creates significant legal and financial considerations for area residents.
These statistics illustrate why understanding your rights and responsibilities following a crash is crucial in a region where collisions are common occurrences.
The Multi-Vehicle Collision Challenge
Three of the five major crashes involved multiple vehicles, creating complex liability scenarios. In multi-vehicle collisions, determining fault often requires a thorough investigation, as liability may be distributed among several drivers.
This can significantly complicate insurance claims and personal injury lawsuits.
For example, in chain-reaction crashes, the driver who caused the initial collision might bear primary responsibility, but subsequent drivers could share partial liability if they failed to maintain safe distances or respond appropriately to the developing situation.
Morning Crashes and Visibility Factors
Four of the five major crashes occurred during morning hours, highlighting the increased risks associated with early-day driving. Limited visibility at dawn, morning fog, and rush-hour traffic congestion are frequent contributing factors to these accidents.
From a legal standpoint, these conditions do not typically absolve drivers of responsibility. All motorists are expected to adjust their driving to account for weather and visibility conditions. Failure to do so can constitute negligence in personal injury claims, even when environmental factors play a role.
The Commercial Vehicle Factor
The fatal accident involving Angie Stone illustrates the devastating potential of crashes involving commercial vehicles. When commercial trucks or buses are involved in collisions with passenger vehicles, the damage and injuries are often catastrophic due to the size and weight disparities.
These cases typically involve additional layers of complexity in personal injury claims:
- Multiple liable parties may include the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, maintenance providers, or cargo loaders.;
- Commercial vehicles are subject to federal and state regulations, and violations of these rules can strengthen negligence claims.; and
- Commercial carriers typically carry higher insurance limits, which can be crucial for covering extensive damages and medical costs.
For victims of commercial vehicle accidents in Alabama, securing experienced legal representation is particularly critical to navigate these complexities and ensure all potential avenues for compensation are thoroughly explored while evidence is still fresh and accessible.
Legal Recourse for Alabama Crash Victims
For those involved in vehicle crashes in Montgomery County or elsewhere in Alabama, understanding the path to compensation is essential:
Alabama’s Contributory Negligence Rule
Alabama follows a strict contributory negligence standard, which can significantly impact recovery in personal injury claims. Under this rule, if an injured party is found even 1% at fault for the accident, they may be barred from recovering any compensation.
This severe standard makes thorough investigation and strong legal representation particularly important for Alabama crash victims. Even minor allegations of contributing to an accident could potentially eliminate the possibility of recovery.
Statute of Limitations Considerations
Alabama law generally provides a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims arising from vehicle crashes. This timeframe begins on the date of the accident, making prompt action essential for preserving legal rights.
However, certain exceptions may apply. For example, if a crash victim was a minor at the time of the accident, the timeline might be extended. Similarly, if the accident resulted in a fatality, the wrongful death statute of limitations applies.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Given the frequency of crashes in Montgomery County, insurance adjusters in this region are well-practiced in handling claims—and in minimizing payouts. Victims should be cautious about providing recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers without legal consultation.
Early settlement offers rarely account for the full extent of damages, particularly when injuries may have long-term or permanent effects that aren’t immediately apparent. A thorough medical evaluation and legal assessment are crucial before considering any settlement.
Preventing Future Tragedies on Alabama Roads
The concentrated pattern of crashes in Montgomery County suggests targeted safety interventions may be necessary.
For individual drivers, the statistics underscore the importance of:
- Maintaining heightened awareness, particularly during morning hours and on interstates;
- Ensuring adequate following distances to prevent chain-reaction collisions;
- Avoiding distracted driving, which remains a leading cause of crashes; and
- Properly maintaining vehicles to prevent mechanical failures that could lead to accidents.
By adopting these defensive driving practices, Alabama motorists can help protect themselves not only from causing accidents but also from becoming victims in this high-risk traffic environment where split-second decisions can have life-altering consequences.
Get Expert Legal Help After an Alabama Vehicle Crash
If you or a loved one has been involved in a vehicle crash in Montgomery County or elsewhere in Alabama, the experienced personal injury attorneys at Baxley Maniscalco are here to help.
Our team understands the complex liability issues surrounding Alabama traffic accidents and can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.
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