Las Vegas Pedestrian Accident Lawyer

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Las Vegas

According to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT), the leading causes of pedestrian accidents in Las Vegas are:

1. Distracted Driving: One of the most frequent causes of accidents is drivers distracted by activities like texting, eating, or adjusting the radio. Even a few seconds of distraction can lead to catastrophic results, especially in high-traffic areas.
2. Pedestrians Ignoring Traffic Signals: Pedestrians who disregard crosswalk signals or attempt to cross streets outside of designated areas significantly increase their risk of being struck by a vehicle.
3. Speeding: Driving at high speeds reduces a driver’s reaction time, making it challenging to stop quickly if a pedestrian suddenly steps onto the road. In areas with high pedestrian traffic, this deadly combination becomes a reality.
4. Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment, slows reaction times, and increases the likelihood of dangerous driving behaviors.
5. Failure to Yield at Crosswalks or Intersections: Many drivers fail to yield to pedestrians, especially at crosswalks, creating hazardous situations.
6. Reckless Driving: Aggressive behaviors such as tailgating, rapid lane changes, and running red lights often result in pedestrian accidents.
7. Jaywalking: Pedestrians who cross roads at points other than intersections or marked crosswalks increase the risk of collisions. Jaywalking is particularly dangerous on multi-lane roads or during high-traffic times.
8. Poor Visibility: Low visibility conditions, such as nighttime, fog, or heavy rain, make it challenging for drivers to spot pedestrians until it’s too late.
9. Road Conditions and Infrastructure: Poorly maintained roads, lack of pedestrian signals, and insufficient crosswalks contribute to pedestrian accidents.
10. Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog, can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, thereby increasing the risk of pedestrian accidents.

What Steps Can Be Taken to Reduce Pedestrian Accidents?

Enhancing pedestrian safety requires a combined effort from city planners, lawmakers, and the community. Some effective strategies include:

• Implementing Stricter Traffic Laws: Strengthening laws regarding distracted driving and DUI offenses can deter risky driving behaviors.
• Improving Road Design: Adding more pedestrian crosswalks, installing better lighting, and improving visibility at intersections can help reduce the likelihood of accidents.
• Educating Pedestrians and Drivers: Public awareness campaigns can emphasize the importance of using crosswalks and obeying traffic signals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safer to walk against traffic or with traffic in Las Vegas?

According to several research studies, it is safer for pedestrians to walk against traffic than to walk with traffic. When pedestrians walk against traffic, they have their backs to oncoming cars and could get hit from behind.

What should I do if I’m involved in a pedestrian accident in Las Vegas?

• Take Care of Yourself First: If you are involved in an accident, especially as a pedestrian, seek medical help immediately. Pedestrian accidents can result in very severe injuries, especially if someone has been hit by a moving vehicle. Examples of injuries that are common include traumatic brain injuries and broken bones. 
• Report the accident to the Las Vegas Police Department. When police officers arrive at the scene, they will create a police report.
• Document Your Case: Take photos of the accident scene, and talk with witnesses who can back up your claims. Maintain records of any medical services that you require, as well as any medical bills that you receive. Most importantly, obtain a police report to document the accident. Our Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorneys will work to gather as much evidence as possible to support your case.
• Involve Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance provider and report the incident. Many insurance companies cover auto-pedestrian accidents. From there, your insurance company will determine who was at fault.
• Contact an Experienced Las Vegas Lawyer: Contact a pedestrian accident attorney in Las Vegas to convey your story. They can inform you about the type of compensation you may be eligible to receive based on your injuries.

When are pedestrians at the highest risk for accidents in Las Vegas?

The Nevada Department of Transportation advises pedestrians to refrain from walking at certain times, as it can be hazardous and cause injuries. Pedestrians should beware of:

• Intersections, especially those on the extremely crowded Las Vegas Strip.
• When there is no crosswalk for pedestrians to pass.
• Once it gets dark, it can be challenging for a car to see oncoming pedestrians in low light.
• If the pedestrian is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, they should not be walking on the sidewalks near Las Vegas Boulevard. 

Who is likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident?

The groups most likely to be involved in a pedestrian accident include:

• Male pedestrians
• Intoxicated pedestrians
• Inexperienced pedestrians are new to the area 
• Pedestrians between the ages of 21 and 45 years
• Pedestrians who cross the street during the weekdays
• Pedestrians walking at night

What type of compensation could I receive for my pedestrian accident injuries?

Depending on the circumstances of your injury, you may be entitled to a variety of damages from the negligent party. Examples of compensation you could receive by being struck by a vehicle include:

• Medical bills
• Prescription medication
• Physical rehabilitation
• Past and/or future lost wages
• Damage to your earning potential 
• Psychological counseling
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disabilities
• Temporary disability

How can a pedestrian accident Attorney help me?

Our top-rated Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorneys have decades of experience and can handle your pedestrian accident claim, even if multiple parties are involved.

We stand out from other personal injury Las Vegas attorneys, and offer:

• Decades of experience encompassing settlement and litigation.
• Investigate the accident to determine how it occurred and who caused it.
• In-depth knowledge of Nevada pedestrian laws
• Strong negotiation skills to negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party and the insurance company
• Contingency-based fees. We know how difficult it is to be involved in a pedestrian accident. The inflicted injuries could result in costly medical treatment bills. That is why our Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorneys offer a contingency fee agreement. You will not be required to pay any money out of pocket unless we secure a settlement or judgment in your favor. We take on the risk of handling your claim and work to give you peace of mind, knowing that we have dedicated ourselves to resolving your case.
• Free no-risk consultation. This consultation will allow us to address any questions you may have about your claim. We want to ensure our clients are always informed about the case.

What are the common types of injuries sustained from pedestrian accidents?

• Head injuries, such as concussions or brain bleeds
• Broken bones, sprains, and dislocations
• Internal bleeding and organ injuries
• Back or spinal cord injuries
• Temporary or permanent disability
• Facial and dental injuries
• Paralysis
• Sprains 
• Soft tissue injuries 
• Internal injuries 
• Wrongful death claims

Who is liable for my pedestrian accident?

There are various defendants who could be held liable in a pedestrian accident in Las Vegas. These possible defendants include:

• Hotels
• Casinos 
• Car drivers
• Car manufacturers
• Car retailers 
• Government agency 
• Other pedestrians 
• Bicyclists
• Truck drivers
• Train drivers