Etowah County, AL (December 8, 2024) – A tragic multi-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 431, five miles north of Attalla, claimed the life of a Jacksonville man and left another individual injured on Friday afternoon. The crash, which involved four vehicles, occurred just after 1 p.m. according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
Derrick McCormick, 45, was driving a pickup truck when it veered off the roadway, striking a road sign. The collision caused a chain reaction as the road sign hit a car, and the pickup overturned, launching an air compressor into the air. The airborne compressor struck a third vehicle, injuring its driver, who was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The pickup continued across the travel lanes and collided with a tractor-trailer before coming to a stop. Sadly, McCormick died at the scene. ALEA is conducting an ongoing investigation to determine the circumstances leading to this tragic accident.
Multi-Vehicle Accidents in Alabama
Multi-vehicle crashes like the one on US Hwy 431 are often chaotic and devastating, involving multiple impacts and significant risks to drivers and passengers. These types of accidents can be caused by a variety of factors, including vehicle malfunctions, driver error, or hazardous road conditions.
Highways such as US 431 are critical routes for regional transportation but also pose dangers due to high speeds and frequent traffic congestion. When collisions occur, victims may face long-term medical, legal, and financial challenges as they recover.
Those impacted by multi-vehicle crashes are encouraged to seek immediate medical evaluation, document the scene, and consult with professionals to ensure fair resolution of claims and support through recovery.
If you or someone you know has been injured or affected by a serious collision, contact Local Accident Reports for assistance and guidance.