Pedestrians in cities throughout Nevada encounter daily hazards, the largest of which being car drivers. Pedestrian deaths occur all too often in car accidents due to drivers being distracted, ignoring traffic laws, running red lights, or driving while intoxicated. The average walking person is no match for the weight and speed of a moving vehicle, which is why pedestrians should remain alert at all times and drivers of vehicles should be vigilant when approaching intersections or areas with high foot traffic. If you have been injured in a pedestrian accident in Las Vegas, you have likely suffered serious injuries. You deserve to be compensated for your losses, and an experienced personal injury lawyer at Matt Pfau Law Group can help.
Nevada’s Pedestrian Laws
The law mandates that drivers must yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the road within a marked crosswalk or an unmarked intersection. Drivers are required to exercise due care and reduce their speed or take other action with their vehicle to ensure the safety of the pedestrian. For example, drivers who are impatient when waiting for vehicles in front of them to allow a pedestrian to cross the street should avoid passing the stopped vehicles.
While the state expects pedestrians to exercise due care with regard to their own safety, drivers are not relieved of their duty to be careful when approaching a pedestrian who is lawfully within a marked crossing or an intersection. Ways in which vehicle drivers can ensure pedestrian safety include:
- Always stop for any pedestrian crossing at corners or other crosswalks
- Do not pass a vehicle stopped at a crosswalk; stop and proceed when all pedestrians are out of the street
- When crossing a sidewalk to enter or exit a driveway, yield to all pedestrians
- Do not stop in a crosswalk
- Allow sufficient time for older pedestrians, disabled pedestrians, and pedestrians with young children to cross the street
What to do if You are Hit by a Car as a Pedestrian
If you are hit by car while out walking, and are physically able, take the following steps:
- Get the names and numbers of any witnesses.
- Take photos of the scene
- Get the license plate number, name, address, phone number, driver’s license number and insurance information of the driver
- Call the police or get someone else to call the police before leaving the scene of the accident
- Request a police report
- Accept medical treatment at the scene of the accident
Get Help From an Experienced Pedestrian Accident Attorney
Pedestrians have rights in Nevada. If you have been harmed in an accident involving a moving vehicle, the attorneys at the Matt Pfau Law Group can advise you on your legal options and deal with the insurance companies on your behalf. Contact us today to discuss your legal case.
