(Meridianville, Alabama — December 16, 2025) – A fatal collision involving an 18-wheeler and an SUV in Meridianville, Alabama, has claimed the life of a local man and left a woman critically injured, authorities confirm. The crash took place Tuesday evening on Highway 231 near the Meridianville Middle School and remains under investigation by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA).
What Happened: Sequence of the Crash
Shortly after 6:20 p.m., emergency crews responded to a serious two-vehicle wreck on Highway 231 South near the Meridianville Middle School.
According to first responders, a tractor-trailer (18-wheeler) carrying cars struck an SUV that was attempting a left turn at the intersection. The impact was severe, and the male driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene.
A female passenger in the SUV was critically injured and transported to Huntsville Hospital for treatment. Authorities have not yet released her name or condition details.
At this time, it is unclear whether roadway conditions, visibility, vehicle speed, or other factors contributed to the crash. ALEA troopers are continuing to investigate.
Source: WAFF
Investigation & Contributing Factors Under Review
Because the collision involved a large commercial vehicle and resulted in a fatality and critical injuries, investigators are likely examining:
- Right-of-way and turn signal use by the SUV
- Speed and control of both the 18-wheeler and the SUV
- Visibility and lighting conditions on Highway 231 at dusk
- Driver condition, including fatigue, distraction, and impairment
- Vehicle mechanical condition (brakes, steering, and safety systems)
- Witness accounts and camera footage from nearby homes or businesses
These factors will play a role in determining fault, possible citations, and any civil liability claims by the victims’ families.
Victim & Passenger Information
- Male SUV driver: 54-year-old Tracy W. Gamble – Deceased at the scene
- Female SUV passenger: Critically injured and hospitalized
- 18-wheeler driver: No reported injuries; information has not yet been released
ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division typically compiles the official crash report within 7–10 business days, which families and insurers can request once finalized.
How to Contact ALEA After a Crash
If you were involved in this crash or are assisting the family with next steps — including insurance or legal claims — obtaining the official crash report from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is critical.
Crash Report Options
🔹 Online: Alabama Interactive Crash Report Portal
🔹 By Mail: ALEA Crash Reports, P.O. Box 1471, Montgomery, AL 36102-1472
🔹 Phone: ALEA Records — (334) 517-2800
🔹 In Person: ALEA Headquarters, 301 S. Ripley St., Montgomery, AL 36104
Crash reports typically include official findings, contributing factors, diagrams, and officer observations — all essential for insurance claims or legal cases.
Legal Rights After a Fatal Truck Crash in Alabama
When a loved one is killed or seriously injured in a crash involving a commercial truck:
- Families may pursue a wrongful death claim
- Injured victims may pursue serious injury claims
- Evidence (dashcam footage, scene photos, witness info) must be preserved early
- Trucking companies and insurers often have large policy limits but also aggressive defense teams
The Fob James Law Firm’s Alabama truck accident lawyers help families pursue justice and compensation after catastrophic 18-wheeler collisions.
About Fob James Law Firm — Supporting Families After Tragedy
At Fob James Law Firm, we represent families in Alabama who have lost loved ones in fatal or serious accidents. Our firm provides:
- Free, no-obligation case reviews
- Coordination with accident reconstruction specialists
- Compassionate guidance through legal and insurance processes
- Representation on a contingency-fee basis — no fees unless we recover for you
📞 Call (205) 407-6009 or contact us online for a free consultation.
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Fob James, IV
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 national firm for several years, 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. Many of Fob’s cases are high profile and have been featured in, among others: Bloomberg News, PlanAdvisor, AL.com, PlanSponsor, InsuranceJournal, and BusinessInsider. For his work in obtaining numerous multi-million dollar outcomes for his clients, Fob has been recognized by: National Trial Lawyers Top 100, SuperLawyers Rising Star (2020-2025), Birmingham Business Journal Who’s Who in Law (2023-2025), and TrustAnalytica – Top Personal Injury Lawyers in Alabama.