Fatal Hit-and-Run Claims Life of Elderly Pedestrian on MLK Jr. Drive in Southwest Atlanta

A tragic hit-and-run incident on Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW claimed the life of an 81-year-old woman in Southwest Atlanta. The incident occurred just before noon in the 3700 block of MLK Jr. Drive SW, when the elderly pedestrian was struck by a vehicle whose driver initially fled the scene. Atlanta Police Department officers responded promptly to emergency calls reporting a pedestrian collision. Upon arrival, first responders discovered the victim, but despite their efforts, medical personnel pronounced her deceased at the scene. In a swift development following the incident, Atlanta Police investigators successfully identified and apprehended a 49-year-old male suspect, who has been charged in connection with the woman's death. The police investigation remains active as authorities work to gather additional details about the circumstances surrounding this fatal collision.

Location and Infrastructure

The 3700 block of Martin Luther King Jr. Drive SW is situated in a vital corridor of Southwest Atlanta, serving as a major east-west thoroughfare connecting multiple neighborhoods and commercial districts. This section of MLK Jr. Drive typically experiences moderate to heavy traffic flow throughout the day, with numerous businesses and residential areas in close proximity. The corridor features several pedestrian crossings and traffic signals designed to facilitate safe passage for both vehicles and pedestrians. This particular stretch of roadway is characterized by multiple lanes in each direction, with posted speed limits typically ranging from 35-45 mph. The area is well-served by public transportation, with several MARTA bus stops along the route, contributing to regular pedestrian activity throughout the day.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Georgia law, leaving the scene of an accident involving death or serious injury is a felony offense carrying significant penalties, including potential imprisonment and fines. Victims' families in fatal hit-and-run cases have two years from the date of the incident to file a wrongful death lawsuit under Georgia's statute of limitations. Potential compensation may include medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future earnings, and pain and suffering damages. Georgia's modified comparative negligence system may affect recovery if multiple parties share fault. Additionally, victims' families may be entitled to compensation through their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the at-fault driver lacks adequate insurance coverage. Various insurance claims must typically be filed within specific timeframes after the incident to preserve rights to compensation. A good Atlanta pedestrian accident attorney will handle all aspects of the personal injury claim.

Related Resources

Emergency Services

• Atlanta Police Department: (404) 614-6544
• Grady Memorial Hospital Trauma Center: (404) 616-1000
• Atlanta Fire Rescue Department: (404) 546-7000

Traffic Safety Resources

• Georgia Governor's Office of Highway Safety: (404) 656-6996
• GDOT Highway Safety Program: (404) 631-1990
• Atlanta Regional Commission Transportation Planning: (404) 463-3100

Victim Support Services

• Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program: (800) 547-0060
• Atlanta Victim Assistance Program: (404) 588-4740
• Georgia Department of Driver Services: (404) 657-9300

Legal References

• Georgia Code Title 40 (Motor Vehicles and Traffic)
• Georgia Department of Public Safety Regulations
• Georgia Wrongful Death Statute (O.C.G.A. § 51-4-2)