Mobile, AL – One Person Killed in Two-Vehicle Crash on Rte 217

Mobile, AL (December 3, 2025) – A deadly early morning crash on Alabama Route 217 claimed one life on December 2. The collision happened around 5:57 a.m. in Mobile County, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Troopers said a 2022 Jeep Compass crashed into a 2014 Freightliner garbage truck. The Jeep’s driver, 71-year-old Michael Martin of Mount Vernon, died at the scene. Emergency responders reached the area quickly and confirmed Martin’s death after assessing his injuries.

Two people occupied the garbage truck at the time of the crash. ALEA reported that neither person suffered injuries, and both remained at the scene while officials reviewed what happened. Troopers did not say what caused the Jeep to strike the Freightliner or whether road conditions played any part.

Law enforcement officers spent the morning gathering evidence and speaking with witnesses. They did not release further details on the events leading up to the collision. ALEA’s Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate the cause of the deadly crash, and more information may follow as the review moves forward.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family and loved ones of Michael Martin following this tragic loss.

Fatal Vehicle Crashes in Mobile County

Mobile County sees a steady number of serious and fatal crashes each year. Many of these incidents happen during early morning hours when visibility is lower, and drivers may feel tired. Rural routes such as Route 217 can add risk because they have fewer lights, narrow shoulders, and limited room for drivers to avoid hazards. When crashes occur on these roads, the impact forces often cause severe harm due to speed and the size of the vehicles involved.

A collision between a passenger vehicle and a large truck, such as a garbage truck or commercial vehicle, creates an especially dangerous situation. Trucks weigh far more than smaller vehicles, which means the smaller vehicle absorbs most of the impact.

These crashes often lead to catastrophic injuries or deaths. Families facing the sudden loss of a loved one may struggle with grief, medical expenses, funeral costs, and the emotional toll of the tragedy.

When negligence, distraction, or unsafe driving plays a part in a fatal crash, Alabama law allows families to pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims may help provide support for financial losses and may also help families seek accountability. An attorney can gather crash reports, speak with witnesses, review electronic data, and examine any available surveillance footage. This helps build a clear picture of what caused the wreck and who should be held responsible.

Working with a skilled attorney also protects families during conversations with insurance companies. Insurers often try to reduce payouts or deny claims, even when liability appears clear. A lawyer can manage communication, negotiate settlements, and guide families through each step of the legal process. This support helps families focus on healing while knowing that their case is being handled with care.

If you lost a loved one in a crash in Mobile County or anywhere in South Alabama, you do not have to navigate this alone. Contact Cockrell, Cockrell, Ritchey & Ritchey at 205-349-2009 to discuss your legal options with our compassionate wrongful death lawyer.

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.