A tragic single-vehicle accident in Dale County, Alabama claimed the life of 61-year-old Susan Hutcheson late Monday evening. The incident occurred around 7:00 PM on January 6, 2025, when Hutcheson's vehicle struck a tree along Lee's Bridge Road in Pinckard. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene and transported the victim to a hospital in Dothan for immediate medical attention. Despite life-saving efforts by medical personnel, Dale County Coroner John Cawley confirmed that Hutcheson succumbed to her injuries in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The specific circumstances that led to the vehicle leaving the roadway and colliding with the tree are currently under investigation by local authorities.

Location and Infrastructure

Lee's Bridge Road serves as a vital connector route between U.S. Highway 231 and Alabama Highway 134 in the small town of Pinckard, situated approximately eight miles south of Ozark. This rural roadway experiences moderate local traffic as it provides essential access for residents traveling between the two major highways. The area surrounding the accident site is characterized by its rural setting with scattered residential properties and agricultural land. The road features standard county maintenance and traditional rural road infrastructure, typical of Dale County's secondary routes.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, the family of a deceased accident victim may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim within two years of the date of death. Alabama's wrongful death statute differs from many other states as it only allows punitive damages, intended to punish wrongdoing rather than compensate for losses. Insurance considerations may include claims against the deceased's own auto insurance policy, particularly if it included comprehensive coverage or medical payment provisions. The family should also be aware that claims involving road conditions or infrastructure must typically be filed against government entities within a shorter timeframe and may require special notice requirements under Alabama's governmental immunity laws.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

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

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Alabama Department of Transportation - Southeast Region
• Dale County Road and Bridge Department
• Alabama Strategic Highway Safety Plan

Support Services:

• Alabama Crime Victims' Compensation Commission
• Southeast Alabama Medical Center - Grief Support Services
• Dale County Victim Service Officers

Legal References:

• Alabama Code § 6-5-410 (Wrongful Death Statute)
• Alabama Department of Insurance - Consumer Services
• Alabama Driver Manual - Road Safety Guidelines