PUTNAM COUNTY, GEORGIA (October 29, 2025) – An elderly couple identified as James Abbott and Sarah Abbott were killed in a Putnam County car accident involving a Georgia Power truck by Highway 16 and Pea Ridge Road.
Putnam County officials are saying that the accident took place around 3:00 PM on Wednesday afternoon. James Abbott and Sarah Abbott were in a vehicle when they were hit by a Ford F150 Georgia Power truck attempting to make a left turn.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the collision to help the victims. James Abbott was pronounced dead at the scene of the collision.
Sarah Abbott tragically died before she could be airlifted to a local hospital. A 26-year-old driver of the Georgia Power truck was also transported to the hospital.
He is scheduled to be charged with homicide and for failing to yield while making a left turn. A full investigation into the Putnam County truck accident remains ongoing.
All drivers have a legal obligation to operate with the reasonable care necessary to avoid hitting other vehicles. Pursuant to GA Code § 40-6-71, “The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left within an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway shall yield the right of way to any vehicle approaching from the opposite direction which is within the intersection or so close thereto as to constitute an immediate hazard.” Multiple factors could contribute to a car accident.
There is a presumption of negligence on the part of any driver that makes a left turn into the path of another vehicle. Depending on the facts of any case, there could be numerous liable parties for a truck accident. This is particularly true if a truck was owned and operated by a public utility. Employers in the state of Georgia can be held vicariously liable for the wrongful actions of their workers who are operating within the course and scope of their job duties.
Car accidents remain one of the leading causes of preventable injury and death in Georgia and across the United States. According to the Georgia Department of Public Health, “In 2020, motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) were the second leading cause of injury deaths and second leading cause of hospitalizations and ER visits in Georgia. MVCs include both traffic and non-traffic cases.” Certain actions should be taken after any car accident in Georgia.
Car accidents can often be highly complex events. The factors that contribute to a collision can take place hours or even days prior. These accidents can often leave victims with serious injuries. It is important for accident victims to consider all of their legal options. Among other things, surviving family members of any person who dies due to the negligence of another driver may seek accountability and transparency through a wrongful death claim.
We at Butler Kahn extend our deepest condolences to the families of James Abbott and Sarah Abbott. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. This was a preventable tragedy that should’ve never taken place. Many questions remain unanswered. What is the safety record of the driver involved? Were they potentially distracted before turning at this intersection?
Do you need more information about a Putnam County truck accident? Our team of truck accident investigators is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that proactive steps are being taken to make Georgia roadways safer. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any particular incident, we are here to serve your needs. You can contact us anytime at 678-940-1444.
