According to a report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal, a pedestrian was killed in a crash in the northeastern corner of the city. An early investigation indicated that jaywalking was a factor in the collision. Here, our Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorney explains what we know about the crash, highlights the safety risks that pedestrians face, and explains the standard of liability in Nevada.
Fatal Pedestrian Collision in Las Vegas Still Under Investigation
A 76-year-old man was fatally hit by a truck on Las Vegas Boulevard North. According to a preliminary report, the crash occurred outside a marked crosswalk and the victim was jaywalking at the time of the incident. The driver, who was identified as an 18-year-old, stayed at the scene and showed no signs of impairment.
The boulevard was closed for investigation between Cheyenne and Pecos Road for hours. The deadly pedestrian collision is still under a comprehensive investigation by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD).
Traffic Poses a Very Serious Safety Risk to Pedestrians
The recent tragic incident in northeast Las Vegas underscores the heightened risks pedestrians face daily from vehicular traffic. Nationwide statistics indicate that pedestrian fatalities have been on a concerning upward trend. Urban areas, with their dense traffic and numerous distractions, pose particular challenges.
Even with advancements in vehicle technology—such as automatic braking and enhanced pedestrian detection—pedestrian collisions remain a very serious safety concern.
Understanding the Standard of Liability for Pedestrian Collisions in Nevada
Pedestrian accident claims are complicated. Navigating the aftermath of a crash can be stressful, frustrating, and overwhelming. Understanding the standard of civil liability in these cases is crucial. Here are some of the key points to understand about pedestrian liability in Nevada:
- Liability is Based on Fault: Fault matters. In Nevada, the cornerstone of determining liability in a pedestrian collision centers around the concept of fault. The party who is determined to be at fault in the pedestrian collision will typically be responsible for the resulting damages. For example, if a driver neglects traffic rules or drives recklessly, thereby hitting a pedestrian, they would be considered at fault. Conversely, if a pedestrian darts into traffic unexpectedly or in a reckless manner, the pedestrian could be deemed at fault.
- Comparative Negligence Applies: Notably, fault for a pedestrian crash is not “either/or”—multiple parties may share liability. Nevada operates under a comparative negligence system. Even if a pedestrian is partially to blame for the accident in Las Vegas, they can still recover damages. However, their recovery will be reduced by the percentage of their fault. For example, if a pedestrian is found to be 10 percent at fault because they were not using a designated crosswalk, they would bear 10 percent liability for their damages. A finding of partial liability could cost an injured victim tens of thousands of dollars.
- Two-Year Statute of Limitations: Injured pedestrians should always remain vigilant after a serious crash. For pedestrian collisions in Nevada, there is a two-year statute of limitations. Any lawsuit seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a pedestrian collision must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this period may result in the loss of rights to claim any compensation for the injuries and damages sustained in the accident. Do not delay: Consult with a Las Vegas personal injury attorney right away after a pedestrian crash in Clark County.
- Recovery Possible for Economic/Non-Economic Damages: Victims of pedestrian collisions in Nevada can pursue compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages refer to quantifiable monetary losses such as medical bills, lost wages, and rehabilitation costs. On the other hand, non-economic damages are more subjective and include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. While it might be easier to calculate economic damages with receipts and invoices, determining non-economic damages often requires expert testimony and a deeper understanding of the impact of the injury on the victim’s life. An experienced Las Vegas pedestrian accident lawyer can help an injured victim secure the maximum recovery.
Contact Our Las Vegas Pedestrian Collision Attorney Today
At Ladah Law Firm, our Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorney is a skilled, reliable, and justice-forward advocate for victims and families. If you or your loved one was involved in a serious pedestrian crash, we are here as a resource. Contact our team right away for a free, no-obligation consultation. We handle pedestrian accident claims in Las Vegas and throughout Clark County.