In the early morning hours of Thursday, December 12, 2024, a significant commercial vehicle accident occurred on U.S. Highway 80 just west of Selma, Alabama, prompting an immediate response from state law enforcement. The single-vehicle incident, involving an 18-wheeler, was reported at approximately 6:26 a.m. near the 72-mile marker in Dallas County. The crash resulted in the closure of eastbound lanes, with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division troopers responding to the scene. The duration of the lane closure remains undetermined as investigators work to assess the situation. While the exact circumstances of the crash are still under investigation, the incident has created significant traffic disruptions during the morning commute period.

Location and Infrastructure U.S. Highway 80, also known as the Selma to Montgomery Historic Trail, serves as a crucial east-west transportation corridor through Alabama's Black Belt region. Near the crash site at mile marker 72, the highway is primarily a four-lane divided roadway that handles substantial commercial traffic between Montgomery and Mississippi. This section of U.S. 80 west of Selma is particularly important for freight movement and sees regular heavy truck traffic. The area is characterized by rural highway conditions with occasional crossing roads and moderate curves. The highway's strategic importance is highlighted by its role connecting several major distribution centers and industrial facilities in the region.

Legal Rights and Considerations Under Alabama Code Section 32-5A, commercial vehicle operators are subject to specific regulations regarding hours of service, vehicle maintenance, and safety protocols. In cases of commercial vehicle accidents, multiple parties may bear liability, including the driver, trucking company, vehicle manufacturer, or maintenance providers. Alabama's statute of limitations typically allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Insurance considerations often involve commercial liability policies, which typically carry higher coverage limits than personal auto policies. An experienced Selma personal injury lawyer will handle all aspects of the legal claim.

Related Resources:

• Dallas County Emergency Management Agency: (334) 874-2515
• Alabama Department of Transportation Traffic Information: 334-242-6358
• Selma Police Department: (334) 874-2125
• Alabama Trucking Association Safety Program: (334) 834-3983
• ALEA Traffic Safety Division: (334) 242-4392
• Alabama Department of Public Safety Commercial Vehicle Enforcement: 334-242-4395