A tragic two-vehicle collision on U.S. Highway 80 approximately one mile east of Selma has resulted in the death of a 71-year-old Selma resident. According to Alabama State Troopers, the fatal crash occurred at approximately 11:15 AM today when Cynthia Hammerle, driving a small SUV, collided with a car operated by an unidentified 18-year-old Selma resident. Investigators at the scene determined that Hammerle was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the impact, which resulted in her being ejected from her vehicle. Emergency responders pronounced Hammerle dead at the scene of the accident. The condition of the teenage driver involved in the collision has not been specified in initial reports. State Troopers are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this fatal crash, which temporarily disrupted traffic on this major east-west corridor that connects Selma with neighboring communities.

Location and Infrastructure

U.S. Highway 80 serves as a critical transportation artery in Dallas County, running east-west through Selma and connecting the city to Montgomery to the east and Demopolis to the west. The section where the accident occurred, approximately one mile east of Selma's city limits, transitions from an urban to a more rural setting with potentially higher speed limits. This stretch of highway typically experiences moderate to heavy traffic flow, particularly during daytime hours, as it serves both local commuters and commercial vehicles traveling between regional destinations. The highway in this area is primarily a divided four-lane roadway with controlled access points at major intersections. Notable landmarks near this section include several commercial establishments and the approach to the Alabama River crossing. Weather conditions at the time of the accident have not been specified in initial reports.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Alabama law, victims of motor vehicle accidents and their families have specific legal rights regarding compensation and liability. Alabama operates under a "contributory negligence" system, which can significantly impact injury claims if a party is found to have contributed to the accident. For fatal accidents like this one, surviving family members may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim under Alabama Code § 6-5-410, which must be filed within two years of the date of death. The lack of seat belt usage may be considered in determining liability and damages under Alabama's safety belt laws. Potential compensation in such cases may include funeral expenses, loss of financial support, and punitive damages. Insurance considerations typically involve the deceased's and at-fault driver's auto policies, possible underinsured motorist coverage, and medical payments coverage. Anyone affected by this accident should consult with a qualified Alabama attorney to understand their specific legal options.

Related Resources

• Emergency Services: Selma Police Department (334-874-2125); Dallas County Sheriff's Office (334-874-2530); Selma Fire Department (334-874-2220)
• Traffic Safety: Alabama Department of Transportation - Central Region (334-242-6358); Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (334-517-2800)
• Victim Support: Alabama Crime Victims Compensation Commission (800-541-9388); ADECA Victims of Crime Act Program (334-242-5100)
• Legal Resources: Alabama State Bar Association (334-269-1515); Alabama Department of Insurance (334-269-3550)
• Traffic Laws: Alabama Code Title 32 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic); Alabama Driver's Manual (alea.gov)