A multi-vehicle collision involving a hit-and-run driver caused significant traffic disruptions on Interstate 75 southbound in Marietta early Monday morning, resulting in three hospitalizations and a temporary highway closure. The crash occurred just after 3:00 a.m. near the interchange with the Canton Connector, a major traffic junction in Cobb County. According to Marietta police, an unidentified vehicle side-swiped a tractor-trailer, triggering a chain reaction accident that involved a Chevrolet Equinox. The impact caused the tractor-trailer to collide with the Equinox, sending the SUV spinning out of control and overturning on the interstate. All three adults traveling in the Equinox were transported to local hospitals with injuries believed to be non-life-threatening, while no other injuries were reported at the scene. The tractor-trailer driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with the ongoing investigation. However, the driver who allegedly initiated the collision fled the scene, prompting police to review area surveillance cameras to identify the suspect vehicle and driver.

Location and Infrastructure

The crash site at the I-75 southbound and Canton Connector interchange represents one of the busiest traffic corridors in metropolitan Atlanta, serving as a critical link between downtown Atlanta and the northern suburbs. This section of I-75 carries heavy commercial and commuter traffic, particularly during early morning hours when long-haul truckers and shift workers frequent the route. The Canton Connector provides access to State Route 5 and connects to several major residential and commercial areas in Cobb County. The interchange features multiple merge points and lane changes that can create challenging driving conditions, especially during low-visibility periods. The area is equipped with overhead lighting and electronic message boards, though the 3:00 a.m. timeframe would have presented reduced visibility conditions. Traffic control cameras monitored by the Georgia Department of Transportation cover this stretch of highway, which proved valuable for the ongoing investigation into the hit-and-run driver.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Georgia law, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious criminal offense that can result in felony charges when injuries are involved, as outlined in O.C.G.A. § 40-6-270. The injured parties in this collision may be entitled to compensation through multiple avenues, including their own uninsured motorist coverage if the hit-and-run driver is not identified or lacks adequate insurance. Georgia follows a comparative negligence system, meaning that fault can be allocated among multiple parties involved in the accident. Victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file personal injury claims under Georgia's statute of limitations. Available compensation may include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage. Given the involvement of a commercial tractor-trailer, federal motor carrier safety regulations may also apply to the investigation. Insurance considerations should include collision coverage for property damage and comprehensive medical coverage, as early morning accidents can sometimes involve drivers under the influence or other complicating factors that affect liability determination.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Cobb County Emergency Services: (770) 499-3911
• WellStar Kennestone Hospital: (770) 793-5000
• Children's Healthcare of Atlanta at Scottish Rite: (404) 785-5437

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Georgia Department of Transportation Traffic Information: 511ga.org
• Cobb County Police Department: (770) 499-3900
• Georgia State Patrol: (404) 624-7000

Support Services:

• Cobb County Victim Services: (770) 528-3060
• Georgia Crime Victims Compensation Program: (404) 657-2222
• MADD Georgia: (770) 234-0572

Legal Information:

• Georgia Department of Law Consumer Protection: consumer.ga.gov
• State Bar of Georgia Lawyer Referral Service: (800) 237-2629
• Georgia Motor Vehicle Accident Report: https://www.Georgia.gov/agencies/department-public-safety