Midtown Atlanta has become a focal point for pedestrian safety concerns after a string of hit-and-run incidents, with the most recent one captured on video that attests to the severe risks faced by pedestrians in the area. A shocking hit-and-run was recorded in broad daylight yesterday afternoon, showing a man being hurled into the air as he reportedly attempted to clear the rainbow crosswalk at 10th Street and Piedmont Avenue. According to 11Alive, the victim was just steps from the sidewalk when he was hit, flung onto the hood, and then went airborne, landing in the street and sliding across the pavement.
First reported by FOX 5 Atlanta, another incident earlier this month involved a pedestrian suffering serious injuries, including broken legs, a fractured pelvis, and a fractured skull, after being struck during an illegal U-turn. Despite the Atlanta Police Department’s Accident Investigations Unit best efforts, the driver in that incident has yet to be identified, and they are urging public assistance in the ongoing investigation. Tips on both incidents can be submitted anonymously via Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-TIPS (8477) or by texting CSGA along with the tip to 738477. Informants may qualify for a reward reaching up to $5,000 and are not obliged to reveal their identity.
On the heels of these unsettling occurrences, residents and workers in Midtown have voiced their unease. Claudia, a frequent user of the Rainbow Crosswalk, expressed her shock to 11Alive, confiding that she is now "more cautious" as a pedestrian. Local worker Kelly highlighted the necessity of remaining vigilant, emphasizing that "when crossing the street, you need to be more aware because you can’t always assume drivers see you."
The Atlanta Police have since identified the driver involved in the hit-and-run at the Rainbow Crosswalk, issuing citations for leaving the scene of an accident and failure to yield, as noted in the 11Alive report. In contrast, the search for the driver who struck a pedestrian on March 5 continues, with the Atlanta Police Department seeking out leads and witness statements that may aid in their investigation.
