Understanding Nevada Laws Involving Pedestrians

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that 35 out of 243 Nevada traffic fatalities in the year 2009 involved pedestrians. It only takes a moment of distraction or carelessness for a tragic Las Vegas pedestrian accident to occur. Therefore, it is in the best interests of all Las Vegas pedestrians to take steps that could help prevent these dangerous accidents.

Nevada Statute 484B.287 gives pedestrians the right-of-way in crosswalks and at intersections. It is important to remember, however, that having the right-of-way does not mean that the pedestrian has the right-of-way under all circumstances. In fact, that same statutes states: “A pedestrian shall not suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle which is so close that it is impossible for the driver to yield.” This means that it is against the law for a pedestrian to suddenly dart into the roadway or jaywalk.

Pedestrians who are attempting to cross the road where there is no intersection or crosswalk must remember that they do not have the right-of-way. “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.” In general, it is in the best interest of all Las Vegas pedestrians to assume that a driver does not see him or her. Remaining cautious and vigilant while crossing the road or walking on a roadway can help prevent pedestrian accidents.

The experienced Las Vegas pedestrian accident injury lawyers at Shook & Stone fight hard to protect the rights of injured pedestrians. We know how to hold at-fault motorists accountable for the injuries they cause. To obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights after a Las Vegas pedestrian accident, call our offices today at 702-570-0000.