Etowah Co., AL - Jerry Hollingsworth Killed in Deadly Motorcycle Crash on US 431 Near Happy Hill Rd

Etowah Co., AL (August 7, 2024) – A deadly motorcycle crash that occurred on Monday evening claimed the life of a 49-year-old Crossville man. The fatal incident occurred at approximately 7:00 p.m. on US 431 near Happy Hill Rd, nine miles south of Attalla in Etowah County. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Highway Patrol Division is currently investigating the accident.

According to officials, Jerry Hollingsworth was riding a 2005 Honda Shadow motorcycle when he collided with a 2004 Toyota Camry driven by a 16-year-old. The impact caused Hollingsworth to be thrown from the motorcycle, and he was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Emergency responders, including local fire departments and ambulances, arrived promptly to manage the situation. The fire department was involved in the extraction of the vehicles from the roadway, while paramedics confirmed the death of Hollingsworth and assisted the teenager, who sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for evaluation.

Traffic on US 431 was temporarily diverted while authorities conducted their investigation and cleared the wreckage. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency's Highway Patrol Division is continuing to look into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Fatal Motorcycle Accidents in Etowah County: Key Statistics and FAQs

Motorcycle accidents continue to pose a significant risk on roadways, and Etowah County is no exception. According to the Alabama Department of Public Safety, motorcycle fatalities in Alabama have seen a troubling increase over the past decade. In 2023 alone, there were over 100 motorcycle-related deaths across the state, a notable rise from previous years. 

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash per mile traveled compared to passenger vehicle occupants. This stark disparity underscores the heightened danger that motorcyclists face on the roads.

When it comes to wrongful death claims related to motorcycle accidents, several common questions arise. A wrongful death claim may be pursued when a person’s death is caused by another party's negligence. In such cases, families often seek compensation for loss of income, funeral expenses, and emotional distress. 

The statute of limitations for filing a wrongful death claim varies by state but generally ranges from one to three years from the date of the accident. Families must consult with an experienced attorney to understand their rights and the legal process involved in pursuing a wrongful death claim.

Seeking legal guidance is essential for victims and their families to navigate the complex legal process and pursue rightful compensation.

If you have lost a loved one in an Etowah County fatal car accident, a knowledgeable Alabama wrongful death attorney from Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, LLP is prepared to help. With a steadfast commitment to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, our law firm offers personalized legal representation to individuals injured due to negligence.

To speak with our lawyers about your Etowah County fatal car accident, call Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, LLP at (205) 349-2009 to schedule a consultation. Our dedicated team is ready to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights and interests are tirelessly defended.

Notes: Our writers relied on secondary sources to create this article. Our staff has not independently verified all of the circumstances surrounding this accident; therefore, if you find any incorrect information, please contact Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey, LLP immediately so that we can update the post to reflect the most accurate information available. The post may be deleted upon request.

Disclaimer: This post's content is not intended to serve as legal or medical advice. The image used in this post was not taken at the described accident scene. This post is not intended as a business solicitation.