Last Updated: October 2, 2025
A tragic pedestrian accident claimed the life of a Birmingham woman on Wednesday morning at the Arkadelphia Road exit ramp off I-59/20, one of the busiest and most dangerous ramps in Jefferson County, Alabama.
Crash Details: Fatal Pedestrian Accident on I-59/20 Exit Ramp
According to Birmingham Police, a semi-truck exiting I-59/20 southbound onto Arkadelphia Road struck a pedestrian around 10:26 a.m. The victim, Shontea Renee Baker, age 40, of Birmingham, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The truck driver has not been publicly identified, and police have not yet released whether charges will be filed. The investigation is ongoing.
Why the Arkadelphia Road Exit Ramp Is So Dangerous
Local residents and traffic safety experts have long warned about hazards at the Arkadelphia Road exit ramp:
- Heavy truck traffic traveling at high speeds as vehicles transition from interstate to ramp.
- Limited pedestrian infrastructure, with few safe shoulders or sidewalks.
- Reduced visibility and blind spots caused by curves, traffic merging, and ramp geometry.
- High accident frequency — crashes and near-misses are common at this location.
Pedestrians in particular face extreme risks, as the design prioritizes vehicle flow with little protection for foot traffic.
Ongoing Investigation & Key Questions
Authorities are investigating several potential contributing factors:
- Truck driver conduct — speed, distraction, fatigue, or impairment.
- Victim’s location — why the pedestrian was on the ramp and whether visibility was an issue.
- Ramp design and conditions — signage, lighting, or roadway hazards.
- Vehicle condition — mechanical issues such as brake or steering failure.
Crash reconstruction experts may review skid marks, surveillance footage, and witness statements to determine liability.
Legal Implications of Pedestrian Fatalities in Alabama
This tragic accident raises important legal issues:
- Wrongful death claims: The victim’s family may seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of support, and emotional suffering.
- Truck driver and employer liability: If negligence is proven, both the driver and trucking company could be held responsible.
- Comparative fault in Alabama: Alabama applies a strict contributory negligence rule, which can bar recovery if the pedestrian is found even partially at fault.
- Government liability: If roadway design or lack of pedestrian protections contributed, claims may exist against state or local entities (though immunity laws make these cases complex).
Supporting Families After Tragic Accidents
Fatal pedestrian accidents are devastating, leaving families with grief, unanswered questions, and financial burdens.
At Fob James Law Firm, our Alabama pedestrian accident attorneys fight for justice and maximum compensation for families affected by negligence.
If you lost a loved one in a crash on Arkadelphia Road, I-59/20, or anywhere in Jefferson County, contact us for a free consultation.
📞 Call us today to learn more about your legal options.
Fob James
Fob James obtained a B.S., in software engineering from Auburn University and then continued his education by getting his J.D. from Vanderbilt University School of Law. After working for a large regional firm for several years where he obtained awards for both individual and corporate clients, Fob found that his passion was fighting for individuals who have been seriously injured or wronged by others. Fob believes that the jury is the great equalizer to the power and influence that large corporations have in society.