Huntsville, AL — Woman Killed in Multi-Car Accident on I-565 Near Zierdt Rd

Huntsville, AL (February 28, 2026) — A tragic multi-vehicle collision claimed the life of a woman on Saturday, February 28, on Interstate 565. The Huntsville Police Department and emergency responders arrived at the scene near the Zierdt Road exit shortly before 6:00 a.m.

According to the initial investigation, the wreck occurred in the eastbound lanes of I-565. The impact was fatal for one woman, whose name is being withheld pending notification of her next of kin. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

The specific cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the family and loved ones of the woman who lost her life.

What to Do After a Family Member is Killed in a Highway Accident

In Alabama, the primary focus is on identifying the "Personal Representative" of the estate and securing the official police report. Since I-565 is a high-traffic interstate, evidence from traffic cameras and vehicle data is critical in determining the cause of the multi-car crash.

The first necessary step is to obtain the official Huntsville Police Department Accident Report. This document will serve as the formal record of the crash, detailing the positions of the vehicles, statements from witnesses, and any citations issued at the scene.

When a multi-car accident takes place, a police report can help clarify the "chain of events" and identify which drivers may be responsible.

In interstate collisions, investigators also look at roadway lighting and weather conditions to determine if external factors contributed to the fatality.

In Alabama, a wrongful death claim must be initiated by the administrator or executor of the deceased person’s estate. If the deceased did not have a will, the probate court will need to appoint a "Personal Representative."

This person is the only person legally authorized to bring a claim against the at-fault parties.

Unlike many other states, Alabama’s wrongful death laws are unique: the only damages recoverable are punitive damages, which are intended to punish the wrongdoer and deter others from similar negligent behavior.

Preserving electronic evidence is vital when a multi-vehicle crash occurs on a major highway. Modern vehicles are equipped with "black boxes" or Event Data Recorders (EDRs) that capture speed, braking, and steering inputs at the moment of impact.

Additionally, because I-565 is heavily monitored, there may be traffic camera footage or dashcam video from other motorists. Ensuring that this digital evidence is not overwritten is time-sensitive and often requires a formal legal notice to be sent to the insurance companies and vehicle owners involved.

Navigating the legal aftermath of an interstate tragedy is an exhausting process, but securing the facts is the first step toward finding peace. 

If you have questions after a fatal crash in Alabama, you can contact Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey at 205-349-2009 to speak with our wrongful death lawyer. We provide clear information and can discuss your available options during this challenging time of your life.

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.