Lonnie Clemons dies in pedestrian crash on U.S. 43 near Haygood Circle

Acura hit pedestrian then collided with unoccupied Ford Escape and Ford F-150

December 15, 2025 | Lauderdale, AL

A fatal multi-vehicle crash on U.S. 43 claimed the life of 75-year-old Lonnie Clemons, according to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency.

Lonnie Clemons, 75, suffered fatal injuries after he was struck by a 2014 Acura RDX on U.S. 43 near Haygood Circle, about seven miles north of Killen in Lauderdale County.

What Happened in the Crash?

A 2014 Acura RDX traveling northbound on U.S. 43 near Haygood Circle struck Clemons, who was in the roadway, around 12:45 p.m. The crash led the Acura to collide with an unoccupied 2019 Ford Escape and a 2012 Ford F-150, both stopped due to an earlier incident.

• Location: U.S. 43, approximately seven miles north of Killen, near Haygood Circle
• Date and Time: Dec. 15, 2025, just before 12:45 p.m.
• Vehicles Involved: 2014 Acura RDX, 2019 Ford Escape, unoccupied, 2012 Ford F-150, unoccupied
• Pedestrian: Lonnie Clemons, 75, critically injured and airlifted to Huntsville Hospital, where he later died
• Driver Injuries: The Acura driver sustained injuries and was airlifted for treatment
• Investigation: Ongoing by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency

The scene highlighted the risks of pedestrians sharing roadways with vehicles, especially in areas with prior incidents.

Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?

Pedestrian safety remains a critical concern across U.S. roadways. Factors such as road conditions, visibility, and prior crashes can contribute to these tragedies.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), pedestrian fatalities reached 7,522 in 2022—the highest since 1981—representing about 17% of all traffic deaths.

This table illustrates the rising trend, underscoring the need for improved infrastructure and driver awareness.

Legal Insights

National legal analysts provide perspective on incidents involving pedestrians and vehicles.

“Road conditions, visibility, and lighting are all possible contributing factors considered and examined,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal. “In cases such as this, an accident reconstruction team is sometimes needed to help piece together what happened. These resources are necessary for helping clients receive monetary compensation for damages or a loss following a collision.”

• Key Takeaways:

  • Pedestrians often have the right of way, placing a duty on drivers to yield.
  • Investigations may involve a detailed analysis to determine the fault.
  • Families may pursue claims for loss of income, companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.

“It is almost always a driver’s duty to yield to any pedestrian,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. “Insurance companies often try to pressure victims to settle for a quick payout for far less than the case is worth. However, an attorney will vigorously advocate for their client to ensure that they are treated with respect and compensated fairly.”

The family of a victim in such a crash may be entitled to a wrongful death claim, with legal guidance helping navigate this process compassionately.

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