Teen Pedestrian Critically Injured in Las Vegas Accident
A 16-year-old girl was injured in a Las Vegas pedestrian accident that occurred as she crossed the street with her sister. According to a KVVU news initial report, the car accident occurred on Lone Mountain Road near El Capitan Way in Las Vegas. Officials say the young victim was crossing the road just east of the intersection with her sister when the car struck her.
She has been listed in critical condition and has required surgery for her life-threatening injuries. Her sister was not injured in the crash. It is not clear if the driver will be cited for the collision or reckless driving. Officials say the girls were not in a crosswalk at the time.
A recent news release on this tragic accident by 8 News Now listed a number of recent Nevada accidents involving young pedestrians. The article cites school officials who are attempting to educate students on the dangers of crossing the road outside of crosswalks that may cause critical injuries and the importance of following traffic safety rules.
Understanding Nevada’s Law
According to NRS 484B.287: “Every pedestrian crossing a highway at any point other than within a marked crosswalk or within an unmarked crosswalk at an intersection shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles upon the highway.” This does not, however, exclude motorists from liability following an accident that occurs outside a crosswalk. NRS 484B.280 requires all motorists to “prevent reckless driving & exercise due care to avoid a collision with a pedestrian.”
Reasons Why Pedestrians Get Hit by Cars Outside of Crosswalks
Pedestrians are often struck by cars while crossing the road outside of crosswalks. This is usually due to a combination of factors, such as:
- Pedestrians may underestimate the distance and speed of oncoming cars.
- Pedestrians may be distracted by their phones or other devices.
- Drivers may be distracted or not paying attention to pedestrians.
- Pedestrians may be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, impairing their judgment and coordination.
How Shook & Stone Can Help?
It is important for both pedestrians and motorists to remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings at all times in order to avoid such tragedies. The family of a child injured in a Las Vegas pedestrian accident would be well advised to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who will protect their rights and legal options.
A skilled Nevada personal injury lawyer at Shook & Stone provide free consultations to anyone who has been injured or has suffered a loss in a Nevada pedestrian accident. Please call us today at 702-570-0000 to discuss your case.