Bibb County, AL (March 13, 2026) – A man from West Blocton died following a two-vehicle crash on Tuesday morning, March 10, on Bibb County Rd 9 near Blue Pond Rd in Bibb County.
Emergency units were called to the area at about 8:45 a.m. after a collision involving a 2013 Honda Accord and a 2022 Jeep Cherokee. The crash occurred roughly 10 miles west of Woodstock.
Authorities said the Accord was driven by 37-year-old Brandon L. Seagle of West Blocton. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials reported that Seagle was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
The driver of the Jeep Cherokee was identified as 50-year-old Charles D. Graham Jr., also of West Blocton. Graham was injured in the accident and taken to Bibb Medical Center for treatment.
Authorities continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and more details will be released as soon as they become available.
Our condolences go out to the victim’s loved ones.
Why Seat Belt Use Often Affects Outcomes in Serious Crashes
Seat belts are designed to keep people secured inside a vehicle during a crash. When worn properly, they help reduce the risk of being thrown against the vehicle’s interior or ejected during an impact.
In many accidents, the force of a sudden stop can cause severe injuries if a person is not restrained. Seat belts distribute that force across stronger parts of the body, such as the chest and hips.
Vehicle safety systems, such as airbags, are also designed to work alongside seat belts. Without a seat belt, airbags alone may not provide the same level of protection during a collision.
Road safety studies often show that seat belt use significantly reduces the risk of fatal injury in traffic accidents, especially in high-speed crashes or direct impacts.