Atlanta, GA (August 25, 2026) – A 23-year-old woman was killed early on Sunday morning, August 23, after being struck by a vehicle while standing near her disabled SUV on northbound Interstate 75 near Cleveland Avenue Southwest. The crash was reported at approximately 3:30 a.m.
Investigators said the woman’s Acura MDX became disabled for unknown reasons. She pulled onto the left shoulder of the road.
A northbound Volkswagen Tiguan then struck both the parked Acura and the woman. She died from her injuries. The Volkswagen driver reportedly left the scene on foot after the collision.
The woman’s identity had not been released, and investigators were still working to locate the other driver and determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash. We extend our sincere condolences to the woman’s family and loved ones.
Understanding Highway Shoulder Risks After a Vehicle Breakdown
Standing outside a disabled vehicle on an interstate can place a person close to fast-moving traffic with little physical protection. A passing vehicle can cover a long distance in only a few seconds.
Shoulders may also provide limited separation from travel lanes, especially at night or when visibility is reduced. A stopped vehicle can become an additional obstacle if another driver drifts toward the roadside.
Traffic speed, lighting, shoulder width, vehicle position, and driver visibility can all affect the level of danger. Highway crashes involving people outside their vehicles can be especially severe because the body absorbs the impact directly.
