A significant multi-vehicle collision occurred Wednesday afternoon on Highland Avenue in Selma, Alabama, directly in front of the Family Dollar store and across from the Cougar Oil Gas station near the Broad Street intersection. The crash involved several vehicles, including a tractor-trailer and a van, though the full extent of vehicle involvement has not been completely detailed by authorities. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, with Selma firefighters handling the cleanup of scattered glass and debris after damaged vehicles were loaded onto wreckers and removed from the roadway. The Dallas County Sheriff's Department provided assistance to the Selma Police Department with traffic control measures, as several lanes of Highland Avenue had to be closed following the incident. At this time, information regarding potential injuries or the condition of those involved in the crash remains undisclosed. The Selma Police Department has launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision, though no immediate cause has been identified in initial reports.

Location and Infrastructure

Highland Avenue serves as one of Selma's primary thoroughfares and commercial corridors, experiencing substantial daily traffic from both local commuters and commercial vehicles. The section near the Broad Street intersection is particularly busy due to the concentration of retail establishments, including the Family Dollar store and Cougar Oil Gas station, which generate significant customer traffic and frequent vehicle entry and exit points. This particular stretch of roadway features multiple lanes in each direction with numerous business driveways and side street access points, creating complex traffic patterns and potential conflict zones for motorists. The intersection with Broad Street is regulated by traffic signals, but the surrounding area includes multiple turning opportunities and merging points that require driver vigilance. The commercial nature of this corridor means that passenger vehicles frequently share the road with larger commercial vehicles, including tractor-trailers servicing local businesses.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, victims of multi-vehicle crashes may pursue compensation through several avenues, depending on the circumstances and liability determination. Alabama operates under the "contributory negligence" doctrine, which means that if a person is found even partially at fault for an accident, they may be barred from recovering damages. This makes proper documentation and investigation crucial following any collision. Alabama has a statute of limitations of two years for personal injury claims, giving victims a limited window to file legal action. Potential compensation for accident victims may include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering. Commercial vehicle accidents involving tractor-trailers often involve more complex liability questions, potentially implicating not only drivers but also trucking companies, maintenance providers, or manufacturers. Victims should consider consulting with legal counsel familiar with Alabama's specific traffic laws and insurance requirements.

Related Resources

• Emergency Services: Selma Fire Department (334-874-2150); Selma Police Department (334-874-2125); Dallas County Sheriff's Department (334-874-2530)
• Traffic Safety Resources: Alabama Department of Transportation Highway Safety Office (334-242-4175); Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP) Program
• Victim Support Services: Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission (800-541-9388); Alabama Head Injury Foundation (800-433-8002); Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services (800-441-7607)
• Legal Resources: Alabama State Bar Association (415-269-1500); Alabama Department of Insurance (334-269-3550); Alabama Department of Public Safety Driver License Division (334-242-4400)