Lawrence Co, AL – Daniel G. Chenault Killed in Tractor-Trailer Crash on AL Rte 20

Lawrence Co, AL (January 29, 2024) – A fatal tractor-trailer crash occurred on Wednesday evening in Lawrence County, claiming the life of a Decatur man and injuring a woman. The incident, reported by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), took place at approximately 6:30 p.m. on Alabama State Rte 20 near Trinity.

According to Senior Trooper Gregory Corble of ALEA, a 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by 70-year-old Daniel G. Chenault collided with the side of a 2023 Freightliner Cascadia tractor-trailer. Emergency responders, including state troopers, firefighters, and paramedics, arrived at the scene to assist the victims and manage traffic.

Chenault was extricated from the vehicle by firefighters and transported by ambulance to Decatur General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. His passenger, 73-year-old Patricia Chenault, sustained injuries and was also taken to Decatur General Hospital for treatment.

Authorities are continuing to investigate the crash to determine the exact cause. No further details have been released at this time.

Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Daniel G. Chenault during this difficult time. We also hope for a full recovery for Patricia Chenault.

Fatal Tractor-Trailer Accidents in Lawrence County

Fatal tractor-trailer accidents are a significant concern in Alabama, with an average of 111 fatal truck crashes occurring annually. While 76% of accidents happen in urban areas, 59% of fatalities occur in rural regions, emphasizing the dangers of highways and rural roadways. Large commercial vehicles pose an increased risk due to their size and weight, making collisions with passenger vehicles more likely to result in severe injuries or fatalities.  

In the event of a fatal accident, Alabama law allows the personal representative of the deceased’s estate to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Unlike other states, Alabama’s wrongful death claims focus on punitive damages intended to penalize wrongful conduct rather than compensate for financial losses. These lawsuits must be filed within two years from the date of death, making it crucial for affected families to take timely legal action. Given the complexities of wrongful death claims and the unique legal framework in Alabama, consulting an experienced attorney can help families navigate the process and protect their rights.

If you have lost a loved one in a fatal tractor-trailer accident in Lawrence County, an Alabama wrongful death attorney from Maloney-Lyons, LLC with expertise in fatal multi-vehicle accidents is ready to provide the assistance you need. We pride ourselves on our unwavering commitment to client advocacy and our successful track record in handling negligence cases.

Contact us today at (251) 225-6105 to schedule a consultation regarding your fatal Lawrence County tractor-trailer accident. Our team is prepared to guide you through every step of the legal process, making sure your rights are thoroughly protected.