WALKER COUNTY, AL – A 40-year-old man driving a 2015 Freightliner Cascadia tractor-trailer lost his life after he drifted off I-22, leading the truck to roll over and catch on fire.
This big rig collision happened after 10 a.m. on Tuesday, April 16th, according to WVTM13. Alabama Department of Transportation (ADOT), Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), and Alabama Department of Emergency Management were all summoned to the scene.
Upon arrival, the ADOT said that there was fire damage to the road. As such, they had to close the interstate, which happened in the area of Dogtown Road and Ingle Road, to repair damage to the road before they could reopen all lanes to the public. First responders also closed the road to provide aid to the victim, who was identified as 40-year-old Stephen A. Zmolek Jr. from Boaz.
The ALEA released Zmolek’s name but did not specify if he was pronounced dead at the scene or died later at a hospital.
Authorities started an investigation but have not released other information, including what kind of load was on the truck or if Zmolek was going west or east. Still, updates will be provided as our newsroom comes to learn more.
If you suffered the loss of a loved one, pursuing a claim can feel like an added burden as you mourn or try to think about the next steps, like funeral arrangements. However, when you have Truck Accident Lawyers LLC by your side, you choose a team of skilled Alabama tractor-trailer truck accident lawyers who will handle all the details of your claim, which includes dealing with the hassle of gathering evidence, corresponding with your insurance company, and negotiating for your rightful settlement all while you take time to mourn and take each day as it comes. Our team is ready to support you. Get a free consultation when you reach out online or by phone at (888)774-5836.