Las Vegas is known for its bustling streets, heavy foot traffic, and 24/7 activity, making pedestrian accidents an unfortunate reality. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, knowing your rights as a pedestrian can help protect you if you’re involved in an accident. Understanding the laws, potential risks, and steps to take after an accident can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case. Led by Preston Rezaee, Esq., The Firm is a premier personal injury law practice in Las Vegas, dedicated to delivering justice for accident victims. With a reputation for relentless advocacy and client-focused representation, The Firm ensures injured pedestrians receive the compensation they deserve, helping them navigate the complexities of personal injury claims with confidence.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Las Vegas
Pedestrian accidents often result from a combination of factors, including:
- Distracted Driving – Many drivers fail to pay attention to the road due to texting, talking on the phone, or using in-car entertainment systems.
- Speeding – Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react in time to avoid hitting a pedestrian.
- Failure to Yield – Nevada law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks, but not all motorists follow this rule.
- Driving Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s reaction time, coordination, and judgment, making pedestrian accidents more likely.
- Poor Visibility – Nighttime accidents are common in Las Vegas, especially when crosswalks are poorly lit or pedestrians wear dark clothing.
Nevada Pedestrian Laws You Should Know
Understanding pedestrian laws can help determine fault and liability in an accident. Key Nevada laws include:
- Right-of-Way Laws – Pedestrians have the right of way in marked and unmarked crosswalks. However, they are also required to use reasonable care for their own safety.
- Jaywalking Laws – Crossing outside of a designated crosswalk is considered jaywalking and can contribute to liability in an accident.
- Duties of Drivers – Drivers must exercise due care to avoid pedestrians, especially near schools, residential areas, and high-traffic pedestrian zones.
Steps to Take After a Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one is injured in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and help secure fair compensation:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Even if injuries seem minor, internal damage can be severe. Get checked by a medical professional.
- Call the Police – A police report is crucial for documenting the accident, determining fault, and supporting your injury claim.
- Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, the vehicle involved, and any traffic signs or signals.
- Get Witness Information – Statements from witnesses can help corroborate your version of events.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters – The at-fault driver’s insurance company may try to minimize your claim. Consult an attorney before providing any statements.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney – An experienced attorney can guide you through the claims process, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if necessary.
Compensation Available for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Victims of pedestrian accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses (hospital bills, physical therapy, surgeries, medications)
- Lost wages (if injuries prevent you from working)
- Pain and suffering (emotional and physical distress caused by the accident)
- Permanent disability (if injuries lead to long-term impairment)
- Wrongful death damages (if a loved one is fatally injured)
Why You Need an Attorney for a Pedestrian Accident Case
Insurance companies often try to reduce payouts by blaming pedestrians for their injuries. A skilled personal injury attorney will:
- Investigate the accident thoroughly
- Gather necessary evidence, including surveillance footage and expert testimony
- Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement
- Represent you in court if a fair settlement is not offered
Pedestrian accidents in Las Vegas can have life-altering consequences, but knowing your rights and taking the proper steps after an accident can make a significant difference. If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, seeking legal representation can help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
When it comes to choosing an attorney, experience matters. You need aggressive, competent, and personalized legal representation and that is what you’ll get with Preston Rezaee, Esq. and The Firm. Retaining the right firm to assist you with your case will affect the outcome and the amount of money you will receive. At The Firm, we strive to distinguish ourselves from commercialized law firms handing hundreds of cases per month. For cases relating to personal injury, we have developed personal relationships with highly qualified medical professionals in Clark County to ensure that our clients not only receive the best legal representation, but also the best medical treatment available. If you’ve been injured in Southern Nevada, give us a call at 702-222-FIRM (3476).
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute legal advice. The content is based on the author’s understanding of the subject matter at the time of writing and is not tailored to the specific circumstances of any individual or entity.
Nothing in this article should be construed as creating an attorney-client relationship or as a substitute for seeking legal advice from a licensed attorney. Legal matters can be complex and vary greatly depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the case. Therefore, we strongly encourage readers to consult with qualified legal counsel for advice regarding their individual circumstances.
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