A devastating two-vehicle collision on Tuesday afternoon claimed the life of 27-year-old Maia M. Sterns of Madison, Alabama. The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. on Highway 231 near its intersection with Enterprise Road in Ozark, Dale County. According to Dale County Coroner John Cawley, Sterns' vehicle hydroplaned during severe weather conditions, causing it to cross the median and collide with an oncoming vehicle. Emergency responders arrived at the scene, but Sterns was pronounced dead upon their arrival. The driver of the second vehicle sustained minor injuries in the collision. The accident occurred during particularly hazardous weather conditions, as the Dale County Emergency Management Agency had declared all county roads and bridges impassable due to severe weather.

Location and Infrastructure

The accident site at Highway 231 and Enterprise Road represents a critical junction in Dale County's transportation infrastructure. Highway 231 serves as a major north-south arterial route through southeastern Alabama, connecting communities from Montgomery to Dothan and continuing into Florida. This four-lane divided highway typically provides reliable transportation for both local and through traffic, with a grass median separating opposing lanes. The intersection with Enterprise Road marks a significant connection point for local traffic heading to and from nearby Enterprise, Alabama. The area experiences considerable daily traffic volume, particularly during peak commuting hours, and the highway's design typically accommodates safe travel at posted speed limits under normal conditions.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, victims of motor vehicle accidents and their families have specific legal rights regarding compensation for damages and losses. Alabama operates under a contributory negligence system, which can significantly impact liability claims in weather-related accidents. The state's statute of limitations generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file personal injury or wrongful death claims. Potential compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and funeral expenses in cases of fatality. Insurance considerations typically involve both liability coverage and potential uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Weather-related accidents often require careful examination of multiple factors, including road conditions, weather warnings, and driver response to hazardous conditions.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Dale County Emergency Management Agency: (334) 774-2214
• Ozark Police Department: (334) 774-2644
• Dale County Sheriff's Office: (334) 774-2335

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Alabama Department of Transportation Road Conditions: (888) 588-2848
• Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Highway Safety Office: (334) 242-4392

Support Services:

• Alabama Crime Victims' Compensation Commission: (800) 541-9388
• Dale County Victim Services Unit: (334) 774-2335

State Traffic Resources:

• Alabama Driver License Division: (334) 242-4400
• Alabama Department of Public Safety: www.alea.gov