Protecting Pedestrians

With so many great restaurants, shops, casinos, hotels, and events located within walking distance, there are thousands of pedestrians on the streets of Las Vegas every day. Unfortunately, the more pedestrians there are, the higher the rate of pedestrian accidents. 

Whether you are a pedestrian or motorist, there are steps you can take to prevent these awful and all too frequent accidents.

Tips for Pedestrians

• Cross at the corners of streets and use the crosswalks and traffic signals when available; don’t jaywalk.
• Use sidewalks whenever possible.
• Obey all traffic signs and signals.
• Make eye contact with drivers before crossing at stop signs or in front of cars waiting to turn.
• Before crossing, make sure you always look to your left, right, and then left again.
• While crossing the street, stay vigilant in case a motorist does not obey the traffic signal.
• Avoid distractions like texting or talking on the phone while you are walking.
• Don’t wear headphones while walking; loud music can prevent you from hearing a honking car.
• Look carefully before crossing parking lot entrances and driveways, as motorists may not see or expect you to be in their paths.
• If you are intoxicated, consider hiring a car to safely get you to your destination.

Tips for Drivers

• Always be on the lookout for pedestrians, even in places where they may be unexpected.
• Remember that pedestrians have the right of way; stop completely for them at intersections.
• Obey all traffic signs and signals.
• Don’t drive while distracted; keep your full attention on the road so that you can see any pedestrians that cross your path.
• When turning, check twice for pedestrians crossing the street.
• Look for pedestrians walking out from between parked cars and be prepared to stop.
• In bright weather, wear sunglasses to avoid glare so that you can see if anyone is in your path.
• At night and whenever visibility is low, reduce your speed so that you can stop quickly if needed.
• Slow down and be especially careful when driving through neighborhoods or near schools, bus stops, or parks. Children can be difficult to see and may run into the street without first checking for cars.

If you have been harmed in a pedestrian accident in the Las Vegas area, contact our injury team at De Castroverde Law Group to discuss your legal options.