Hit-and-run accidents continue to plague North Georgia and the greater Chattanooga, Tennessee area. State and federal agencies continue to raise awareness through laws and monthly campaigns, these incidents still occur and cause horrific and oftentimes fatal injuries.
Pritchard Injury Firm has represented several victims of hit-and-run auto accidents in North Georgia and Tennessee. Before students and families return to school, we will review recent hit-and-run accidents in North Georgia and Chattanooga. We will also offer preventative tips for drivers as well as cyclists and pedestrians.
What is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run is commonly defined as leaving the scene of an accident without first providing your name, address, and vehicle information to the driver, pedestrian, cyclist or other party and ensuring that victims injured in the accident receive medical attention.
Georgia §40-6–270 defines the driver’s duty to stop at or return to the scene of an accident.
Similarly, Tennessee §55-10-103 decrees that a person is considered guilty of misdemeanor hit and run if: They leave the scene of an accident without at least identifying themselves to the other parties involved; and another party's property was damaged.
Recent Hit-And-Runs in North Georgia and Chattanooga
It is the duty of the driver who caused a hit and run to stop their vehicle and provide their name and address and registration number the vehicle he or she is operating to the other driver. Unfortunately, these incidents are happening in our communities. For example:
- In June, a 57-year-old grandfather was riding his bike on Cobb Parkway in Marietta when a car hit him from behind, sending him to the hospital. Cobb police told Atlanta News First that the driver took off. The victim spent more than a week at the hospital until he passed away July 3. Police reportedly found the car driven in the collision, but not the driver.
- On July 13, 2024 a 16-year-old was killed in a hit-and-run on Power Spring Road (State Route 360) at Cunningham Road at around 11p.m., according to the Cobb County Police Department.
- In Chattanooga, Tennessee, police are cracking down on hit-and-run drivers. In June, Chattanooga Police located the driver and Ford F-150 related to a fatal hit-and-run accident that happened on June 8, 2024, which involved the death of a 36-year-old woman on Shallowford Road who later died in the hospital from her injuries.
These are just a few recent examples of the tragedies occurring on the roads of North Georgia and Chattanooga, Tennessee. These pedestrian accidents can lead to catastrophic injuries and death.
Three Tips for Drivers To Avoid Hit-and-Run Accidents
Below are preventative measures that will protect drivers, some of which are recommended by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):
1. Remain Alert and Avoid Distractions. Always pay attention to your surroundings and avoid distractions like mobile phones or loud music.
2. Obey Traffic Laws. Follow speed limits, stop at red lights and stop signs, and yield to pedestrians. Always make sure your headlights are on when visibility may be low and at night.
3. Properly Navigate Crosswalks. Never pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. There may be people crossing where you can’t see.
It is a crime in Georgia and Tennessee for a driver to leave the scene of a hit and run. Accidents happen and by staying to provide information or attend to the victim, you can help avoid more serious criminal and civil charges.
Four Tips for Pedestrians and Cyclists To Avoid Hit-and-Run Accidents North Georgia and Chattanooga
Additional recommendations for cyclists, pedestrians, and other non-motorists include:
1. Wear Bright Clothing. Increase your visibility to drivers, especially at night, by wearing bright or reflective clothing.
2. Avoid Jaywalking. Just as drivers should navigate the roads carefully, so should pedestrians. Cross streets at designated crosswalks and wait for pedestrian signals when available. If a crosswalk or intersection is not available, locate a well-lit area where you can best see traffic. Wait for a gap in traffic that allows enough time to cross safely; continue watching for traffic as you cross
3. Be Predictable. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing the street and avoid sudden movements that can catch drivers off guard.
4. Stay On Your Path. Pedestrians should use sidewalks where available and avoid walking or cycling on the road. Only cyclists should use the bike lane.
And as recently discussed, school will soon be back in session for many districts. With more children and parents commuting and returning to schools of North Georgia and Chattanooga, this is the time for everyone on the road to be more diligent and aware.
Pritchard Injury Firm wants everyone to be safe, especially ahead of October, which is National Pedestrian Safety Month.
Your GA/TN Personal Injury Lawyer
Filing a claim quickly after a pedestrian or auto accident and consulting with a personal injury lawyer in North Georgia or Tennessee will help maximize the value for your physical, mental and property damages.
Pritchard Injury Firm is here to provide the compassionate legal and emotional support you deserve. Contact Pritchard Injury Firm for a free consultation.