Covington Man Involved In Deadly Hit and Run

A hit-and-run accident on Sunday – that claimed the life of Jacob G. Halbrooks, 23 – is being investigated by Atlanta Police.

A preliminary investigation suggests Halbrooks was struck and killed by a heavy truck on the southbound side of the Downtown Connector near the exit for Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, early Sunday morning, according to officials. He died of blunt force trauma, the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s office said.

In the next 24 hours, on average, 324 people will be treated in an emergency department for pedestrian-related injuries. In the next 2 hours, on average, one pedestrian will die from injuries in a traffic crash, according to the CDC.

Pedestrian Safety – Walkers

Pedestrian safety laws vary among jurisdictions, know and obey the safety rules for where you live.

Teach children safety rules and watch them closely at all times.

When crossing a crosswalk or intersection, wait for a green light.

Reflective gear should be worn by all joggers/walkers so they are easily visible to drivers.

All joggers/walkers must yield the way to all vehicles.

Before stepping off the curb, look left, right and left again.

Opt for sidewalk when possible, but if not walk facing traffic – make sure you can see and be seen.

While alcohol and drugs can impair a person’s ability to drive, it can also impair your ability to walk safely.

Pedestrian Safety – Drivers

Keep your eyes on the road at all times; don’t let cell phones and MP3 players distract attention.

Don’t pass other vehicles that are stopped for pedestrians. Especially near schools and neighborhoods where children are at play.

Drive slowly and be prepared to stop when entering a crosswalk area.

Stop at all crosswalks – even if it’s not clearly marked. When stopping for a pedestrian in a crosswalk, leave enough distance that the drivers in other lanes also have time to stop.

For more information on pedestrian safety, visit the CDC Web site.