Atlanta Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run What Victims’ Families Need to Know

A Tragic Loss in Downtown Atlanta Pedestrian Killed in Hit-and-Run

On the evening of Sunday, May 18, 2025, a devastating tragedy unfolded at the intersection of Peachtree Street NW and Baker Street NW in downtown Atlanta. According to a report from Atlanta News First, 71-year-old Michael A. Crabtree was walking through a marked crosswalk when he was struck by a black sedan. The impact was severe. The driver did not stop to help, fleeing the scene before first responders arrived. Mr. Crabtree was pronounced dead shortly after due to extensive blunt force trauma.

Mr. Crabtree was visiting Atlanta from out of state — a guest in our community — when his life was suddenly and violently taken. The heartbreak is immeasurable, not only for his loved ones but for the many Atlantans who continue to walk our city’s streets with a growing sense of vulnerability.

This is not an isolated incident. Just months earlier, in nearly the same location, another pedestrian, 67-year-old Pradeep Sood, was struck and killed while crossing Peachtree Street. That two such tragedies occurred within blocks of one another in such a short span of time has reignited serious questions about the safety of Atlanta’s crosswalks, the visibility of pedestrians, and the accountability of drivers who recklessly endanger lives.

What Causes Pedestrian Accidents in Atlanta?

As Atlanta continues to grow, so does the volume of pedestrian traffic in its urban core. With popular destinations like Centennial Olympic Park, the Georgia Aquarium, and State Farm Arena all located within walking distance of major intersections, thousands of residents and visitors rely on crosswalks and sidewalks every day. Unfortunately, this dense foot traffic also increases the potential for collisions — particularly when drivers fail to uphold their duty of care.

Pedestrian accidents can occur in a matter of seconds, but they are rarely accidents in the truest sense. In most cases, they are the direct result of preventable human error, infrastructural shortcomings, or reckless decision-making. Below are some of the most common factors that contribute to serious and fatal pedestrian collisions in Atlanta and beyond.

Driver Negligence and Reckless Behavior

Many pedestrian collisions stem from basic driver carelessness — a failure to yield at crosswalks, running red lights, speeding through busy intersections, or making illegal turns. Even in areas clearly marked for pedestrian right-of-way, some drivers either ignore or fail to notice people crossing the street. This negligence is not only dangerous but criminal when it results in injury or death.

In downtown Atlanta, where streets like Peachtree and Spring are heavily trafficked by both vehicles and pedestrians, failing to obey traffic laws can be deadly. When drivers operate their vehicles recklessly in these high-density zones, the risk to pedestrians — especially elderly individuals or people with limited mobility — becomes severe.

Distracted Driving in the Digital Age

Distracted driving is a leading cause of crashes nationwide, and Georgia is no exception. Despite laws that prohibit texting and handheld phone use while driving, many motorists continue to look at their phones, send messages, or scroll through social media while behind the wheel.

The danger is amplified in pedestrian-heavy areas where a moment’s distraction can mean the difference between life and death. A driver may not see a pedestrian until it’s too late, and in some tragic cases, may not even realize they’ve struck someone — particularly at night.

Poor Lighting and Limited Nighttime Visibility

Visibility is one of the most important factors in pedestrian safety. When lighting is poor or nonexistent, the chances of a driver spotting someone in time to stop are significantly reduced. This is especially concerning in cities like Atlanta, where sections of downtown are not uniformly lit, and where shadows cast by tall buildings can make it even harder to see crossing pedestrians.

Many pedestrian fatalities occur in the early morning or late evening hours, precisely when visibility is lowest. When drivers fail to adjust their speed and attentiveness to match these conditions, pedestrians are placed at unnecessary and unacceptable risk.

Driving Under the Influence

Impaired driving remains a persistent and deadly issue in Georgia. Alcohol and drug use can dramatically impair a driver’s reaction time, depth perception, and decision-making abilities. An intoxicated driver may fail to recognize a pedestrian, misjudge the distance needed to stop, or — in many hit-and-run cases — flee the scene to avoid arrest or DUI charges.

In 2023 alone, alcohol-impaired driving was a factor in over 400 traffic fatalities in Georgia, according to the Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety. These numbers speak to the systemic danger of allowing impaired drivers behind the wheel — especially in densely populated pedestrian areas like Midtown and Downtown Atlanta.

Inadequate Crosswalks and City Infrastructure

Despite Atlanta’s efforts to revitalize and modernize its streetscape, the city still suffers from outdated or insufficient pedestrian infrastructure in many areas. Long blocks without crosswalks, poorly timed pedestrian signals, and intersections with no physical traffic-calming measures can all increase the likelihood of serious accidents.

Peachtree Street — one of Atlanta’s most iconic corridors — has been the site of multiple pedestrian deaths in recent years. While some intersections are equipped with modern signals and signage, others lack even basic safety features, leaving pedestrians to navigate unpredictable traffic patterns without protection.

Cities that invest in pedestrian-first infrastructure — such as raised crosswalks, flashing signals, speed bumps, and reduced speed zones — consistently see lower rates of accidents. Atlanta has made progress, but clearly, there is more work to be done to protect those on foot.

Legal Implications of Hit-and-Run Accidents in Georgia

Pedestrian hit-and-run accidents leave victims and families reeling — emotionally, financially, and legally. In Georgia, the law is clear drivers have a legal duty to stop and render aid after a crash. When they choose to flee, it not only compounds the tragedy but also opens the door to serious legal consequences, both criminal and civil.

Georgia Law Makes Fleeing the Scene a Felony

Under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270, Georgia drivers involved in an accident are legally required to stop, offer assistance, and contact emergency services. This statute applies to all traffic incidents — but when someone is seriously injured or killed, failure to stop becomes a felony offense, punishable by up to five years in prison.

Despite this, many drivers flee the scene, often to avoid DUI charges, suspended licenses, or simply the consequences of their actions. In hit-and-run pedestrian cases, this act of fleeing denies victims and families the basic dignity of accountability — and in some cases, delays or prevents critical medical aid.

Wrongful Death Lawsuits in Georgia

When a pedestrian is killed by a negligent driver, their surviving family members may pursue a wrongful death claim under Georgia law. This civil action seeks to recover damages for the full value of the victim’s life, including both tangible and intangible losses.

If you’re unsure whether your case qualifies, the State Bar of Georgia’s Wrongful Death Overview offers helpful guidance. However, navigating this process without legal representation can be overwhelming, especially when insurance companies try to minimize payouts.

Funeral and Burial Expenses

The financial burden of unexpected loss can be immense. Funeral services, transportation, cremation or burial costs — these expenses often come at a time when families are still in shock and unprepared. Georgia’s wrongful death statutes allow compensation for these out-of-pocket costs as part of a civil claim.

Working with experienced pedestrian accident attorneys like those at Karell Trial Attorneys ensures that families don’t bear these costs alone.

Lost Wages and Financial Support

If the victim was a source of income for their family — whether full-time or part-time — their death can leave a lasting economic void. Surviving spouses, children, or dependents may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and the future financial support the deceased would have provided.

This is especially important for households where the victim played a caregiving or primary provider role. Calculating these damages typically requires legal and financial analysis, which is why early consultation with a law firm is essential.

Medical Expenses from Emergency Response

In some hit-and-run cases, the victim may receive emergency medical care before passing away. Ambulance transport, trauma care, ICU treatment, and surgical procedures can rack up thousands of dollars in medical bills within hours. Even though the victim didn’t survive, these costs often fall to the family — unless legal action is taken.

If you’ve received hospital bills or insurance notices following a fatal pedestrian crash, a personal injury attorney can help determine your rights and prevent financial exploitation.

Emotional Pain and Suffering

Georgia law recognizes the emotional toll of losing a loved one, particularly under such traumatic circumstances. Families may recover damages for mental anguish, emotional distress, and the enduring grief caused by a preventable death.

Although no amount of money can replace a life, courts often award these damages as a way to acknowledge the human cost of the tragedy. These claims are especially compelling in pedestrian cases involving hit-and-runs, where families are left with unanswered questions and deep emotional trauma.

What If the Driver Is Never Identified?

Unfortunately, not all hit-and-run drivers are caught — but that doesn’t mean the case is over. Georgia drivers may carry uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which can apply when the at-fault driver is unknown or lacks insurance. According to the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire, this coverage may offer financial relief for victims and their families in qualifying circumstances.

An attorney can assist you in filing a claim through your UM policy and ensure you receive the maximum benefits available.

Statute of Limitations Time Is Critical

In Georgia, the deadline to file a wrongful death lawsuit is typically two years from the date of death, as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 9-3-33. However, certain factors — such as pending criminal investigations or estate matters — can extend or complicate this timeline.

Waiting too long to act can jeopardize your ability to pursue justice. That’s why it’s crucial to speak with a law firm like Karell Trial Attorneys as soon as possible to preserve evidence, meet legal deadlines, and protect your rights.

What Legal Compensation Can Families Pursue After a Fatal Hit-and-Run in Georgia?

A fatal hit-and-run accident doesn’t just leave emotional devastation — it often brings sudden financial chaos and unanswered legal questions. For surviving families, the path forward can feel overwhelming, especially while grieving the loss of a loved one.

That’s why understanding your rights under Georgia wrongful death law is critical. Victims’ families may be entitled to various forms of compensation — not as a windfall, but as a means of restoring financial stability and holding the at-fault party accountable. The team at Karell Trial Attorneys is dedicated to helping families understand their options and seek meaningful justice.

Emergency Medical Bills After the Accident

If the victim received emergency medical attention before passing away, those costs can quickly escalate. Ambulance transport, trauma care, and surgical attempts to save a life often result in tens of thousands of dollars in bills. These are known as “survival damages” and can be recovered through a claim brought by the victim’s estate.

For more insight, the Georgia Department of Community Health provides an overview of how emergency care is billed statewide.

Financial Relief for Funeral and Burial Expenses

Under Georgia’s wrongful death statute, families may seek compensation for funeral and burial costs. These include not only burial plots and cremation fees, but also memorial services and travel costs for family members.

The National Funeral Directors Association reports that the median cost of a funeral in the U.S. exceeds $7,800 — a heavy burden for any family, especially one facing sudden loss.

Loss of Future Income and Economic Support

One of the most significant long-term losses after a fatal pedestrian accident is the deceased’s earning potential. Families may pursue damages for the projected lifetime income the victim would have earned, including salary, bonuses, benefits, and retirement contributions.

To understand how courts calculate these losses, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage Data can serve as a reference for expected earnings based on age, occupation, and education level.

Emotional Loss Companionship, Guidance, and Stability

While no dollar amount can replace the emotional role a loved one played, the law allows compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and parental guidance, particularly when the deceased leaves behind a spouse or children.

This is known legally as non-economic loss, and it recognizes that families suffer far more than financial loss after a wrongful death. The American Psychological Association has published extensive research on the long-term mental health effects of losing a close family member, underscoring the lasting impact of these tragedies.

Pain and Suffering Experienced Before Death

If the pedestrian was conscious and experienced pain between the moment of impact and their passing, their estate may seek compensation for this suffering. Known as “pre-death pain and suffering”, these claims must be supported by medical evidence and can substantially impact a settlement or verdict.

A helpful explainer from Nolo’s Legal Encyclopedia breaks down how pain and suffering damages are typically calculated in personal injury and wrongful death cases.

Punitive Damages for Gross Negligence or Hit-and-Run Behavior

Georgia courts may also award punitive damages when the driver’s actions were especially egregious — such as fleeing the scene, driving under the influence, or showing blatant disregard for human life. These damages are meant to punish the offender and deter similar conduct.

To learn more about punitive damages and how they’re applied, the Legal Information Institute at Cornell Law School offers a thorough breakdown of their role in civil lawsuits.

How Fault Is Determined in Georgia Hit-and-Run Cases

In hit-and-run pedestrian accidents, especially those involving fatalities, determining who is at fault is the first step toward pursuing justice. But in the absence of an identified driver, the legal process becomes more complex and evidence-driven.

Under Georgia law, establishing fault requires a combination of direct and circumstantial evidence, and typically involves law enforcement, attorneys, insurance adjusters, and in some cases, accident reconstruction specialists. Understanding how this process works can help families make informed decisions about their next steps.

Negligence Is the Legal Standard

In Georgia, most personal injury and wrongful death claims rely on the legal theory of negligence. To hold a driver liable, the plaintiff (usually the victim’s family) must prove the following four elements

Duty of Care

Every driver in Georgia has a legal responsibility, known as a “duty of care,” to operate their vehicle safely and obey all traffic laws. This duty includes yielding to pedestrians in marked crosswalks, following speed limits, and remaining at the scene of any collision. The driver involved in a hit-and-run incident breaches this duty the moment they flee, but the duty itself existed well before the crash occurred.

Establishing the duty of care is usually straightforward in pedestrian cases, as all motorists are required to exercise caution in areas with high foot traffic — especially in downtown Atlanta where pedestrian presence is expected.

Breach of Duty

A “breach of duty” occurs when a driver fails to uphold their legal obligations. This may involve reckless actions like speeding through intersections, texting while driving, running red lights, or — as in the case of a hit-and-run — abandoning the scene without providing aid or identifying information.

In fatal pedestrian collisions, a driver’s decision to flee can serve as compelling evidence of negligence or even gross misconduct. It reflects an unwillingness to take responsibility and can significantly influence both civil and criminal proceedings.

Causation

To hold a driver liable, it must be shown that their actions directly caused the victim’s death or injury. In legal terms, this involves proving both “actual cause” (the collision wouldn’t have occurred without the driver’s actions) and “proximate cause” (the injury was a foreseeable result of those actions).

In hit-and-run cases, causation is often supported by physical evidence, eyewitness testimony, and medical reports. For example, if a pedestrian was legally crossing at a marked crosswalk and was struck by a vehicle traveling at high speed, that driver’s behavior would clearly meet the threshold for causation.

Damages

Finally, the victim or their family must show that they suffered measurable harm — known as “damages.” In wrongful death claims, this can include funeral expenses, medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and loss of companionship.

Even if the driver is never identified, families may still recover compensation through uninsured motorist coverage or a claim against other liable parties. The key is demonstrating the economic and emotional impact of the loss — something an experienced legal team can help articulate and document.

You can learn more about Georgia’s negligence standards from the State Bar of Georgia’s Civil Law Guide.

Evidence Collection Is Crucial

In hit-and-run cases, fault often hinges on the strength of the evidence available. Law enforcement and legal teams work quickly to gather and preserve critical proof, which may include

Surveillance footage from nearby businesses, traffic cameras, or private doorbell systems
Eyewitness accounts from bystanders, other drivers, or people in nearby buildings
Physical evidence such as skid marks, broken vehicle parts, or shoe scuff marks on the road
Vehicle data pulled from an Event Data Recorder (EDR), also known as a “black box,” if the vehicle is located
Medical reports that confirm the nature and timing of the injuries

An attorney can help ensure all relevant evidence is collected and properly documented for court or settlement negotiations. Without timely legal action, some of this evidence may be lost.

Comparative Negligence in Georgia

Georgia follows a modified comparative negligence rule, as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 51-12-33. This means that a victim can still recover compensation even if they were partially at fault — as long as they were less than 50% responsible for the accident.

For example, if the court finds that a pedestrian was 10% responsible (e.g., by stepping into the road just as the light changed), the compensation awarded would be reduced by 10%. However, in most marked crosswalk fatalities like the one in this case, the driver bears the overwhelming majority — if not all — of the fault.

Why Legal Guidance Matters in Fault Determination

Fault isn’t always clear-cut, especially when the driver is unidentified or when insurance companies push back against claims. That’s why families benefit from working with firms like Karell Trial Attorneys, who are experienced in collecting evidence, consulting experts, and negotiating with insurers and opposing counsel.

A skilled legal team not only builds the strongest possible case but also helps protect families from accepting low settlements or being blamed unfairly for the incident.

The Role of Police and Surveillance in Identifying Hit-and-Run Drivers

When a driver flees the scene of a fatal pedestrian crash, the burden of finding them falls heavily on local law enforcement. In hit-and-run cases like the tragic May 18th incident in downtown Atlanta, time is of the essence. Surveillance footage, witness reports, and physical evidence must be collected quickly — before they disappear.

Fortunately, modern tools and investigative methods have made it increasingly possible to identify hit-and-run suspects, even when no license plate or vehicle description is initially available.

Traffic and Surveillance Cameras in Downtown Atlanta

One of the most effective tools in tracking down fleeing drivers is the network of traffic and security cameras deployed throughout the city. In areas like Peachtree Street NW — where the May 2025 crash occurred — many intersections are monitored by the City of Atlanta Department of Transportation (ATLDOT) or nearby businesses.

Footage from these sources can provide

Video of the crash in real-time
The make, model, and color of the vehicle
A partial or full license plate
Evidence of vehicle damage immediately after impact

Even in cases where cameras don’t capture the moment of impact, they can often track a vehicle’s path before and after the incident — helping police establish a timeline and route.

Eyewitness Testimony and Bystander Reports

Witness statements can be critical in identifying the vehicle or reconstructing the sequence of events. In many pedestrian hit-and-runs, bystanders may hear the impact or catch a glimpse of the car speeding away.

Atlanta police encourage anyone with information to come forward by contacting Crime Stoppers Atlanta, which accepts anonymous tips through its official website or tip hotline. Witness reports, even if incomplete, often help law enforcement piece together fragmented timelines or corroborate camera footage.

License Plate Readers (LPR) and Smart Technology

Atlanta has invested in smart traffic technology, including license plate readers (LPRs) positioned along key roadways. These systems automatically scan and log the plates of passing vehicles and can be used to track suspected cars fleeing from a crash site.

When cross-referenced with witness statements and video evidence, LPR data can be instrumental in confirming the identity and location of the hit-and-run vehicle. For more on how these systems work, the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) provides a full overview of LPRs and their usage across the U.S.

Physical Evidence Collected at the Scene

Even when surveillance is limited, investigators often find valuable physical evidence left behind at the scene. This can include broken pieces of the vehicle (such as headlights, side mirrors, or bumper fragments), tire tread marks, or paint transfer from the collision.

These items are analyzed by forensic specialists who can often determine the make and model of the car — narrowing down potential suspects. Once a vehicle is located, damage patterns can be matched to the scene to confirm involvement.

Collaboration Between Law Enforcement and Attorneys

Experienced attorneys — like the team at Karell Trial Attorneys — often work in parallel with law enforcement to gather evidence. They may issue subpoenas for surveillance footage, consult with accident reconstruction experts, or file Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests to obtain traffic camera data.

This collaborative approach ensures that no piece of evidence is overlooked and helps build a stronger civil case for the victim’s family.

Why Hit-and-Run Cases Are Increasing in Urban Areas Like Atlanta

Hit-and-run crashes have become a growing crisis in cities across the United States — and Atlanta is no exception. As urban populations grow and road networks become more congested, the frequency of pedestrian accidents involving fleeing drivers has escalated dramatically. Understanding why this trend is occurring can help shape smarter transportation policy and strengthen the legal response for victims and their families.

A National Spike in Hit-and-Run Fatalities

According to data from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, the U.S. experienced over 2,600 fatal hit-and-run crashes in a single recent year — the highest number ever recorded. Pedestrians and cyclists account for nearly 70% of these fatalities.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has also noted a disturbing trend hit-and-run crashes are rising even as overall traffic fatalities begin to plateau or decrease. This suggests a growing disconnect between traffic enforcement and driver accountability in major metro areas.

Atlanta’s Dense Traffic and Walkable Zones Increase Risk

Downtown Atlanta is home to major venues, hotels, and business districts — all of which generate high volumes of pedestrian activity, particularly near intersections like Peachtree Street NW and Baker Street NW, where the recent fatal crash occurred.

With more people walking and more drivers commuting through the same corridors, the margin for error shrinks. Unfortunately, some drivers respond to these risks not with caution, but with impatience, distraction, or intoxication.

The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) has repeatedly warned that the city’s infrastructure hasn’t kept up with its pedestrian needs. Long stretches without crosswalks, high-speed multi-lane roads, and poorly timed pedestrian signals contribute to dangerous conditions for those on foot.

Distracted and Impaired Driving Remains a Factor

Smartphones, in-car entertainment systems, and even GPS apps have become major distractions for drivers. In dense traffic areas like Midtown or Downtown, a moment of inattention can lead to tragedy — and some drivers flee the scene rather than face the consequences.

Impaired driving also continues to play a role. The Georgia Governor’s Office of Highway Safety reports that alcohol-impaired driving was a factor in over 400 traffic deaths in Georgia in 2023 alone. In many of these cases, drivers fled the scene to avoid DUI charges — a common motive behind fatal hit-and-run incidents.

Fear of Legal Consequences Drives Flight

One of the most common reasons drivers flee the scene of a crash is fear — fear of going to jail, losing a license, being sued, or facing immigration issues. This is especially true for drivers who are uninsured, unlicensed, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of the crash.

Ironically, fleeing often results in harsher penalties than the initial violation. According to Georgia law, leaving the scene of a fatal crash is a felony offense, punishable by up to five years in prison — even if the underlying crash wasn’t initially criminal.

Low Clearance and Accountability for Drivers

Despite increasing fatalities, many hit-and-run drivers are never caught. A lack of uniform enforcement, limited access to traffic camera networks, and delayed investigations sometimes allow offenders to disappear — especially in cases where no plate or vehicle make is immediately known.

This reality makes legal advocacy even more important. At Karell Trial Attorneys, we work with investigators, city officials, and insurance companies to help families seek justice — even when the road ahead seems uncertain.

What Families Should Do Immediately After a Fatal Pedestrian Accident

In the aftermath of a fatal pedestrian crash — especially one involving a hit-and-run — the emotional toll is overwhelming. Grieving families are often faced with a flood of decisions, legal paperwork, and financial concerns while still processing their loss.

Although nothing can truly prepare someone for this kind of tragedy, knowing what steps to take can protect your rights, preserve critical evidence, and open the door to justice. The attorneys at Karell Trial Attorneys are here to guide families through every stage of this process — but here’s what to do in the immediate aftermath.

Ensure the Incident Has Been Properly Reported to Authorities

If you were present or among the first to receive the news, make sure the accident was officially reported to law enforcement. The responding police department will file a crash report that serves as a foundational piece of evidence in any civil or criminal proceeding.

You can request the official report through the Georgia Department of Transportation’s Crash Reporting Portal, or through local departments like the Atlanta Police Department’s Open Records Unit.

Obtain the Death Certificate

The death certificate is a required document for filing a wrongful death claim, accessing life insurance, and handling the victim’s estate. In Georgia, these are typically issued through the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Vital Records Office.

Make sure the certificate includes accurate details regarding cause of death and location — these can be important when pursuing legal claims.

Preserve All Evidence — Photos, Video, and Witness Information

If any photos or video of the scene exist (from phones, surveillance, dash cams, or nearby businesses), preserve them immediately. Also try to collect the names and contact details of any witnesses — especially those who saw the crash or the fleeing vehicle.

If you’re not sure where to start, an attorney can submit Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests on your behalf to obtain traffic cam or surveillance footage before it’s deleted or overwritten.

Notify the Insurance Company — But Don’t Settle Yet

You may need to notify the victim’s insurance company to start an uninsured motorist claim (UM/UIM), especially if the at-fault driver has not been identified. However, avoid making formal recorded statements or accepting a settlement without speaking to an attorney first.

Insurance adjusters may pressure families into quick settlements to minimize payouts. A lawyer can help you understand your policy benefits and negotiate from a position of strength. To learn more, see the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) guide to auto claims.

Consult an Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney

Perhaps the most important step is to speak with a law firm that handles fatal pedestrian accident cases. A lawyer can launch an independent investigation, work alongside police, file a civil claim, and help ensure you’re not taken advantage of during your most vulnerable moments.

Time matters. In Georgia, the statute of limitations for wrongful death is generally two years — but delays can harm your ability to preserve evidence or secure compensation. Contact Karell Trial Attorneys for a free, confidential consultation to discuss your options.

Pedestrian Safety and Road Design in Atlanta What Needs to Change?

The tragic death of Michael A. Crabtree on May 18, 2025, is not an isolated event — it’s a symptom of a much larger problem. Atlanta, like many growing metropolitan areas, is struggling to protect its most vulnerable road users pedestrians. As hit-and-run deaths rise, it’s becoming clear that infrastructure and enforcement policies are not keeping pace with the needs of a walkable city.

Addressing these failures requires both policy change and public awareness — and the legal community plays an important role in that conversation.

Atlanta’s Streets Weren’t Designed for Pedestrians

Much of Atlanta’s infrastructure was designed in the mid-20th century, with automobiles prioritized over pedestrians. Wide intersections, long traffic light cycles, and a lack of protected pedestrian zones all contribute to hazardous conditions — particularly in high-traffic corridors like Peachtree Street NW and Spring Street.

According to the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), more than 75% of pedestrian fatalities occur on roads with five or more lanes and speed limits of 40 mph or higher. Many of these roads cut directly through residential and commercial areas, creating deadly environments for walkers and cyclists.

Crosswalks and Signals Are Inadequate or Inconsistent

While Atlanta has made some strides in crosswalk visibility and pedestrian signal timing, improvements are far from uniform. Some downtown intersections have clear, signal-controlled crossings — others have faded lines, no pedestrian countdowns, or unsafe mid-block crossings.

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) acknowledges these challenges in its Pedestrian Safety Action Plan, which calls for improved crosswalk markings, mid-block pedestrian islands, and traffic calming features. However, implementation remains inconsistent across neighborhoods.

Traffic Calming and Vision Zero Where Is Atlanta Now?

Cities around the world have adopted Vision Zero initiatives — a commitment to eliminating all traffic deaths and serious injuries. While Atlanta has expressed support for the concept, local advocacy groups argue that efforts have been slow and underfunded.

Organizations like PEDS, a Georgia nonprofit advocating for walkable communities, continue to push for practical changes including

Lower speed limits in urban zones
More raised crosswalks and pedestrian refuge islands
Expanded sidewalk networks
Protected pedestrian signals at busy intersections
Stronger enforcement of reckless driving laws

Without consistent investment, however, pedestrian safety remains a patchwork — with deadly consequences.

Legal Pressure Can Influence Policy

While litigation alone won’t solve infrastructure issues, legal action in the wake of fatal accidents often brings public pressure and media scrutiny. When families pursue wrongful death claims or civil lawsuits, it puts a spotlight on unsafe intersections, city negligence, and the need for reform.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we are not only advocates for our clients — we’re advocates for change. Every case we take is an opportunity to push for safer streets, fairer laws, and a city that values the lives of every person who walks its streets.

Get the Justice Your Loved One Deserves — Contact Karell Trial Attorneys Today

No one expects to lose a loved one in a hit-and-run. The pain is unimaginable — and when the person responsible flees without a trace, that pain is often compounded by frustration, confusion, and a sense of helplessness.

But you don’t have to navigate this alone.

At Karell Trial Attorneys, we’ve stood beside countless families during the most difficult moments of their lives. We understand the legal complexities of fatal pedestrian accidents in Georgia — and we know how to build strong cases that get results.

Whether the at-fault driver has been identified or remains unknown, we can help you

Launch an immediate investigation
Preserve and obtain critical evidence
File a wrongful death claim or uninsured motorist claim
Navigate Georgia’s legal system with clarity and confidence
Fight for the compensation and closure your family deserves

Our firm offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee basis — meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

Your loved one deserves justice. Let us help you seek it.

Call us today (678) 719-4285
Or reach out online at karell.law/contact To schedule your free confidential consultation