The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) is investigating a fatal crash in Blount County that claimed the life of a Springville teen Sunday morning.
The 16-year-old driver of a 2018 Chevrolet Malibu crashed on Alabama 132 near Trestle Road around 11:30 a.m. The vehicle left the roadway, struck an embankment, overturned and caught fire.
The driver was pronounced dead on the scene.
A 15-year-old passenger was ejected and airlifted to an area hospital.
Investigators said the teens were not wearing seat belts.
The teens have not been identified.
October 20-26 was National Teen Driver Safety Week. The Alabama Department of Transportation said traffic crashes are a leading cause of death for 15-20-year-olds. In 2022, there were 80 fatal crashes in Alabama involving drivers ages 15-19.
“Parents play a critical role in teaching teen drivers safe driving habits,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator.
“New teen drivers lack experience behind the wheel, which increases the chance of dangerous situations for the teen and other roadway users around them,” said Allison Green, Drive Safe Alabama coordinator. “This is why it’s so important for parents to model safe driving behaviors themselves and have discussions with their teens about the choices they make to keep everyone on the road safe.”
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email erica.thomas@1819news.com.
Don’t miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
