A tragic single-vehicle accident in Covington County has resulted in the death of 30-year-old Amanda E. Edson of Andalusia. The incident occurred on January 18, 2025, on Plywood Mill Road near its intersection with Grider Mock Road, approximately one mile south of River Falls. According to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Edson was critically injured when the truck she was operating left the roadway and overturned. Reports indicate she was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash and was ejected from the vehicle. Emergency responders transported Edson to Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, where she received treatment for nearly two weeks. Despite medical intervention, she succumbed to her injuries on Saturday, February 1, 2024. The ALEA Highway Patrol Division is conducting an ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Location and Infrastructure

Plywood Mill Road, where the accident occurred, is a rural roadway in Covington County that serves as a vital connection between River Falls and surrounding communities. The intersection with Grider Mock Road is situated in an area characterized by its proximity to timber and manufacturing operations, as suggested by the road's name. This stretch of road is typical of rural Alabama highways, featuring limited shoulder space and periodic curves that require vigilant driving. The area's industrial history and continued commercial activity mean the route regularly experiences both passenger vehicle and commercial truck traffic, particularly during weekday business hours.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, survivors of deceased accident victims may have the right to pursue wrongful death claims within the state's two-year statute of limitations. Alabama follows a pure contributory negligence system, which can significantly impact potential claims. In single-vehicle accidents, insurance considerations typically involve personal injury protection coverage, uninsured motorist coverage, and potential claims against third parties if road conditions or vehicle defects contributed to the crash. Compensation may be available for medical expenses incurred before death, funeral expenses, and other damages as prescribed by Alabama's wrongful death statute. The absence of seat belt use, while relevant to safety discussions, is governed by specific state laws regarding its admissibility in civil proceedings.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Covington County Emergency Management Agency: (334) 428-2670
• Andalusia Fire Department: (334) 222-1234
• River Falls Police Department: (334) 222-3308

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Alabama Department of Transportation Safety Office
• ALEA Highway Safety Division
• Drive Safe Alabama

Support Services:

• Alabama Crime Victims' Compensation Commission
• Alabama Head Injury Foundation
• MADD Alabama Chapter

Legal References:

• Alabama Code Title 32: Motor Vehicles and Traffic
• Alabama Wrongful Death Statute (Code of Alabama § 6-5-410)
• Alabama Department of Insurance Consumer Services