Las Vegas, a city humming with energy and rife with activities for all ages, presents unique challenges for pedestrians. The mix of heavy traffic, bustling tourist activities, and a vibrant nightlife contributes to a heightened risk of pedestrian injuries.
Locals and visitors alike benefit from staying aware of their surroundings and doing their best to walk at designated areas for maximum safety. That said, if you’re injured by a driver, be it at a crosswalk, a sidewalk, or in the street, you can seek compensation. Though federal and state laws don’t do as much to protect pedestrians as some other countries, pedestrians are not left out in the cold. At Clear Counsel Law Group the rights of pedestrians are taken seriously.
Pedestrian Injury Statistics
In 2021, 80 pedestrians were killed in Nevada, making up 21% of the fatalities from crashes in the state. Most injuries happen at non-intersections (76.81%) and at night (74.48%). These are the places and times when pedestrians are the least visible to oncoming traffic.
The majority of pedestrian injures occur when the front of a car comes in contact with them. This indicates that heightened visibility on the part of pedestrians and heightened awareness from drivers could reduce the numbers of injuries each year.
Who is Considered a Pedestrian?
While people may associate a pedestrian with a person walking, pedestrians make up a larger group which includes:
- Joggers
- Skateboarders
- In-line skaters
- Sidewalks scooters
- Wheelchair users
- Stroller occupants
Pedestrian safety in Las Vegas requires heightened awareness and proactive measures from both pedestrians and drivers.
Pedestrian Risks in Las Vegas
Many areas in Las Vegas lack adequate pedestrian safety features. Here are a few examples:
Crosswalks
Crosswalks are engineered to provide clear, safe routes for pedestrians to cross streets. That said, crosswalks remain perilous. Drivers may fail to notice them or pedestrians may cross against signals, leading to crashes and injuries. Additionally, the absence of sufficient street lighting at night exacerbates the risk. Unfortunately, crosswalks provide some additional risks over street crossings. Pedestrians are less alert at crosswalks, assuming that the lights and markings will alert drivers. Drivers, anxious to beat lights will speed up as they approach intersections while also looking up at the light, a combination that puts pedestrians at severe risk.
High Foot Traffic/High Traffic Zones
The sheer number of people crossing streets in Las Vegas, especially on the Strip, adds to the risk of injury. Tourists unfamiliar with the traffic patterns and local road layouts may inadvertently put themselves at risk. Furthermore, the city’s attractions often lead to large groups of pedestrians congregating at crossings, creating confusion and potential hazards. Most pedestrian accidents occur on weekend nights, between Friday and Sunday. These are peak times for traffic congestion and pedestrian gatherings.
Airports pose another significant risk. The constant hustle and bustle of busy travelers combined with the confusion of airport parking lots and drop-off zones create a dangerous areas for pedestrian. The increasing number of ride share drivers looking for specific passengers and at their phones also contributes to risk. Finally, drivers picking up and traveling in rental cars may not have a good understanding of the feel and performance of a new vehicle, leading to miscalculations in braking and stopping distances.
Impaired Driving
Alcohol consumption and driver negligence play significant roles in pedestrian accidents in Las Vegas. The city’s vibrant nightlife often leads to impaired judgment in both drivers and pedestrians, escalating the risk of accidents, particularly on weekend nights.
Unique Risks to Children
Because children do not have the same level of judgment and awareness of adults, they are particularly vulnerable to accidents involving moving vehicles. Common places where children are struck, include:
- Driveways – especially by high-profile vehicles such as SUVs
- Busy parking lots – children sometimes break free from their parents and are struck by maneuvering vehicles
- School bus stops
- School crosswalks – one of the reasons fines increase in these zones
Children face significant risks in construction zones where they are less likely to acknowledge warnings and signage.
Get Legal Advice
The legal implications of pedestrian accidents can be complex, especially in determining fault and seeking compensation for injuries or in the case of wrongful death. Consult a personal injury attorney at Clear Counsel Law Group for guidance in filing a claim, defending your rights, and seeking compensation against careless and negligent drivers.