Fatal I-65 Rear-End Collision Claims Mobile County Sheriff's Office Employee Chelice Burns, 64, in Montgomery, Alabama Area

A tragic rear-end collision on Interstate 65 in the Montgomery area resulted in the death of Chelice Burns, 64, a 15-year veteran corrections corporal with the Mobile County Sheriff's Office. The crash occurred when a Dodge Challenger traveling at approximately 70 miles per hour struck the rear of Burns' vehicle, which was traveling at 20 miles per hour. The impact was severe enough to send both vehicles off the roadway, with the Challenger subsequently catching fire. In addition to Burns' fatality, three others were injured in the collision: a passenger in Burns' vehicle and both the Challenger's driver and a 9-year-old passenger were transported to local hospitals. According to the crash report, the Challenger's driver misjudged his stopping distance, contributing to the accident. The collision caused significant traffic disruption, bringing northbound I-65 traffic to a complete standstill for several hours as emergency responders attended to the scene and conducted their investigation.

Location and Infrastructure

Interstate 65 serves as a major north-south thoroughfare connecting Montgomery and Mobile, Alabama, carrying substantial daily traffic volumes. This section of I-65 in the Montgomery area experiences consistent commercial and commuter traffic, particularly during peak travel hours. The roadway's high-speed nature—where vehicles regularly travel at or above 65 miles per hour—creates particular hazards during conditions where drivers must suddenly reduce speed. Rear-end collisions are among the most common accident types on interstate highways, often resulting from driver inattention, misjudgment of stopping distance, or excessive speed relative to traffic conditions. The fact that the initial vehicle was traveling at 20 miles per hour suggests a sudden traffic slowdown or hazard ahead. Understanding the specific stretch of I-65 where this collision occurred is essential for motorists to exercise heightened awareness and maintain appropriate following distances, particularly during periods of variable traffic flow.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, motor vehicle operators have a legal duty to maintain control of their vehicles and operate at speeds reasonable for current conditions. Alabama Code § 32-5A-70 establishes that drivers must not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, considering speed and traffic conditions. In rear-end collision cases, the striking vehicle's driver is typically presumed liable due to the fundamental requirement to maintain a safe following distance. Surviving family members and injured parties may pursue claims for economic damages (medical expenses, lost wages, funeral costs) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, loss of companionship). Alabama has a statute of limitations of three years for personal injury claims and wrongful death actions. Insurance considerations include both liability coverage of the at-fault driver and potential underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage. Injured parties and their families are encouraged to consult with qualified Alabama personal injury attorneys to understand their specific rights and available remedies under state law.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Mobile County Sheriff's Office: (251) 574-8633
• Montgomery Fire-Rescue: (334) 241-2600
• Alabama State Troopers (I-65 incidents): 1-800-25-CRIME

Traffic Safety and Legal Resources:

• Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT): www.dot.state.al.us
• Alabama Traffic Safety Center: Traffic laws and regulations
• Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service: www.alabar.org

Support Services for Accident Victims:

• Crisis Services Inc. (Mental health support): 1-800-531-1228
• Alabama Victim Assistance Academy: Information on victim services
• The Alabama Coalition Against Domestic Violence (broader victim support network)

Educational Resources:

• NHTSA Following Distance Guidelines: www.nhtsa.gov
• Safe Driving Tips for Interstate Travel: Alabama transportation safety resources