Pedestrian Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas

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Like motorcycle crashes, pedestrian accidents are among the most devastating and deadly of all traffic collisions. Even at low speeds, vehicles striking pedestrians can cause severe or catastrophic injuries and fatalities. Pedestrians cannot protect their bodies from colliding vehicles and can be thrown, knocked down, or run over by negligent drivers. 

Recent statistics reveal alarming trends regarding pedestrian safety. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the U.S., pedestrian fatalities accounted for 17% of all traffic deaths in 2021, a figure that continues to rise. In Las Vegas, pedestrian accidents are notably frequent, especially in high-traffic areas, contributing to the state’s high injury and fatality rates.

At Cohan PLLC, our focus is personal injury claims stemming from negligence-based accidents, such as those involving pedestrians. Las Vegas is a national tourist area with abundant out-of-town visitors and a thriving population. High traffic volume, distracted drivers, and a vibrant nightlife where thousands of people take to the streets increase the chances of pedestrian accidents.

Pedestrians have long been one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. The complexities of urban road systems, coupled with the high pedestrian turnout in bustling areas, escalate the risks further. Awareness programs and infrastructure improvements are essential to improve pedestrian safety, but they require significant investments and time to effect substantial changes.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a negligence-based pedestrian accident, our team can help. We have over a decade of experience building, negotiating, and litigating claims. Our trial-tested attorney has handled even the most complex matters and understands what it takes to work toward securing fair and just compensation for accident victims.

Schedule a free case review with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Las Vegas at Cohan PLLC. Call (702) 623-3579 or contact us online to make an appointment. Hablamos español.

Types of Injuries Resulting from Pedestrian Accidents

Injuries in pedestrian accidents can range from minor to catastrophic. These can include soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains, and lacerations, multiple broken bones, internal injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage.

The most severe injuries can lead to life-changing medical consequences involving permanent disability. These situations can require extensive and ongoing medical care, personal assistance with daily activities, an inability to support oneself, and a loss of quality of life. In such cases, a trusted and proven pedestrian accident attorney in Las Vegas is essential.

Recovering from a pedestrian accident injury often involves a multidisciplinary approach, including physical therapy, pain management, and psychosocial support. Financial compensation can provide for such rehabilitative services, helping victims restore their independence and improve their quality of life. Additionally, community support networks and counseling can greatly assist victims in coping with the emotional and psychological aftermath of such traumatic events.

What Causes Pedestrian Accidents?

Pedestrian accidents can occur for various reasons, including:

• Driver Negligence: Distracted driving, ignoring traffic signals, or violating other traffic laws can all result in pedestrian collisions. 
• Speeding: Excessive speed is particularly dangerous as it makes it difficult for drivers to react in time to avoid pedestrians.
• Failure To Yield: Many accidents happen when drivers do not yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in marked crosswalks or intersections. 
• Inadequate Infrastructure: Poorly designed roadways without proper crosswalks or signals can contribute to accidents.
• Alcohol Or Drug Impairment: Intoxicated drivers have diminished reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing accident risk.
• Pedestrian Negligence: This can include crossing outside designated areas, failing to use crosswalk signals, walking while using a cell phone, listening to music, or being distracted by other activities.
• Vehicle Design: Some vehicles, such as SUVs and trucks, may have blind spots that make it difficult for drivers to see pedestrians. 

Understanding the causes of pedestrian accidents is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies. Public awareness campaigns can educate both drivers and pedestrians on the importance of vigilance and compliance with traffic laws. In addition, technological advancements in vehicle safety, like pedestrian detection systems, are starting to play a significant role in reducing these accidents.

Laws Applying to Pedestrians and Drivers

In pedestrian zones, both pedestrians and drivers have rights and responsibilities. Pedestrian laws often require individuals to cross at designated crosswalks, obey traffic signals, and remain visible to drivers, especially during night hours. Engaging in safe practices like avoiding distractions such as mobile phones, and wearing bright clothing can significantly reduce accident risks. Conversely, drivers must yield to pedestrians, especially in marked crossings. Failure to adhere to these laws can result in liability for accidents.

Understanding these laws is fundamental for all road users. Regular law enforcement patrols and penalties for violations can enhance adherence to these regulations. Educational programs tailored to teach children about pedestrian safety practices are also vital as part of community outreach efforts. Continuous dialogue between city planners and the community can lead to infrastructure designs that better accommodate pedestrian safety needs, such as improved crosswalks and pedestrian signals.

Impact of Las Vegas Infrastructure on Pedestrian Safety

The unique layout and design of Las Vegas, along with its densely populated tourist areas, have a significant impact on pedestrian safety. The city's infrastructure features wide roads designed to accommodate heavy traffic, which can sometimes be hazardous for pedestrians. Many areas are not pedestrian-friendly, lacking sufficient crosswalks and pedestrian signals. This typically increases risk, especially in high-traffic zones around the Strip where foot traffic and vehicle congestion coexist.

The Las Vegas local government has been making significant strides to improve pedestrian safety through infrastructure upgrades. However, there is still a necessity for comprehensive urban planning that considers the needs of pedestrians alongside the demands of growing traffic. The adoption of smart traffic management systems and pedestrian-friendly urban designs could contribute significantly to reducing pedestrian accidents in Las Vegas.

Common Locations for Pedestrian Accidents in Las Vegas

Pedestrian accidents in Las Vegas are more frequent in certain locations due to high foot traffic and vehicular congestion. Popular tourist areas such as the Las Vegas Strip, are frequented by both tourists and vehicles and show higher incidences of pedestrian accidents. Additionally, intersections and busy roadways in downtown Las Vegas and areas with high nightlife activity are susceptible to increased pedestrian risk due to unpredictable driver behavior and higher alcohol consumption rates among pedestrians and drivers.

These locations necessitate targeted strategies to mitigate accidents, such as increased pedestrian crossings, clearer traffic measures, and public safety campaigns focused on the specific challenges these zones present. The combination of effective education and comprehensive traffic solutions can play a crucial role in making these high-risk areas safer for pedestrians.

Connect with an experienced pedestrian accident lawyer in Las Vegas near you as soon as possible. Dial (702) 623-3579 or submit an online form. Our services are available in English and Spanish.