As a pedestrian, you should not have to worry about your safety when you cross the road or walk across a parking lot at the mall. Unfortunately, motorists do not always look out for people on foot. Occasionally, drivers get into accidents with pedestrians. Because people on foot have nothing on their bodies to shield or protect them from the impact of a collision with a car, the resulting injuries are often life-altering.
If a motor vehicle struck you or your loved one, you might be considering filing a personal injury lawsuit. However, you might wonder what role traffic laws for Las Vegas pedestrian accident cases could play in your lawsuit. Our knowledgeable legal team from Shook & Stone could explain how a pedestrian injury claim would work.
Relevant Laws Concerning Pedestrians in Las Vegas
Unfortunately, Las Vegas is one of the more dangerous cities for pedestrians. The bustling nightlife, booming tourist industry, and countless activities in the city pose a risk as people on foot and by car compete to try to get to the next destination as fast as possible. To reduce the number of accidents involving people on foot, Las Vegas and state officials have enacted rules for both pedestrians and motorists to follow.
According to Nevada Revised Statutes § 484B.283 through 484B.297, pedestrians must obey specific guidelines when sharing the roads with automobiles, including the following:
- Walk on the sidewalk when possible
- If there is no sidewalk, walk on the left side of a road, facing traffic
- Cross at marked crosswalks when possible
- Obey walk and do not walk signals at intersections
- If a pedestrian as already entered an intersection and the traffic signal changes to wait or do not walk, they can continue walking across the street
- People crossing highways at places other than crosswalks should yield the right of way to cars on the highway
- People should not cross intersections diagonally, unless specifically authorized
- Pedestrians cannot suddenly dart into traffic into the path of an oncoming vehicle
- Pedestrians should not use alcohol or drugs while walking on a highway
In addition to adhering to these laws, pedestrians should exercise common sense by following other guidelines. Walkers should make efforts to ensure that drivers see them. For instance, during the day, they should wear bright clothing, and at night, they should wear reflective clothing. At night, they should also use a flashlight.
Our dedicated attorneys understand how traumatic pedestrian accidents can be and could work hard to help you recover after being injured in one.
Consequences of Violating a Pedestrian Traffic Law
Violating any of the Las Vegas traffic laws listed above can result in a misdemeanor for a pedestrian and could also impact the success of a civil suit. Nevada operates with a modified comparative fault system. If you violated a traffic law, a court would still allow you to proceed with a civil action as long as the driver who hit you was at least 50 percent to blame for the accident, but your damages would be proportionately reduced.
Our trusted legal team could thoroughly investigate the accident and look for evidence proving why the motorist was at fault for the crash so that you could sue to collect the financial compensation you need.
Speak With a Las Vegas Attorney About Pedestrian Traffic Rules
Pedestrian accidents can result in severe injuries, lost wages, and costly medical bills. Our attorneys at Shook & Stone understand the role of traffic laws for Las Vegas pedestrian accident cases. Our lawyers believe you deserve a chance to fight for fair compensation even if you violated a traffic rule.
Speak with our legal team about setting up a free consultation to discuss a strategy for your case. Call now.
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