Pedestrian Accident Lawyers

Pedestrian accidents are tragic events that affect thousands of people every year. Whether it is a single person walking along the side of the road or a generally crowded area, pedestrians are exposed and vulnerable to being hit by a vehicle. These traumatic accidents can lead to serious repercussions for the injured person and change their life significantly. Having a pedestrian accident lawyer by your side can help you receive the compensation and care you need to make it through this tough time.

When you want to file a claim to seek compensation for your pedestrian accident injuries, Mitchell Rogers Injury law in Las Vegas, NV can help you navigate the legal process and seek justice. We specialize in injury law and can provide you with expert guidance as we advocate and negotiate for you on your behalf. Working with our pedestrian accident lawyers will help ensure you receive the maximum amount possible in restitution.

Pedestrian Accidents by the Numbers

Collisions between pedestrians and vehicles can have catastrophic consequences. As the real and growing threat of pedestrian injuries and deaths continues to be a problem, it affects thousands of people annually. Between 2020 and 2021 alone, there was a 12.5% increase in the number of people killed in pedestrian accidents. A snapshot of pedestrian accident statistics from the most recent reporting year shows that:

  • 60,577 pedestrians were injured in 2021
  • 15% of children below the age of 14 were killed in pedestrian accidents
  • 176 children were killed in 2021
  • 5,106 children were injured

Additionally, the majority of pedestrian accidents occur at night and make up about 77% of accidents. When pedestrian accidents occur, Americans between the ages of 60 and 69 are the most common demographic to be involved in a fatal accident. Moreover, males make up 70% of accidents involving pedestrians. 

Work-Related Pedestrian Accidents

The workplace is a significant cause of pedestrian-related accidents. During the most recent report by The National Safety Council, pedestrian accidents accounted for 325 work-related deaths and tens of thousands more non-fatal injuries that resulted in days not working.  When work-related pedestrian accidents occur, they are most likely to cause injury in the torso region, as well as the upper and lower extremities. Bruising, pain, fractures, strains, and sprains make up the majority of injuries associated with these events. These accidents most frequently happen in industries that either provide services or produce goods. 

Most Common Conditions for Pedestrian Accidents to Occur

When studying the data on pedestrian accidents, commonalities emerge as to when, where, and how these tragic accidents occur. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), they estimate that walking for work, recreation, social reasons, shopping, and errands account for a notable share of transportation means and fatalities. Also, the most common types of pedestrian accidents occur in the following conditions:

  • Dawn and dusk, when light levels are low
  • Locations
  • Non-intersections
  • Multiple lanes of traffic
  • High-traffic volume areas
  • Areas where the speed limit is 30 mph and above
  • Between the hours of 6 p.m. and midnight
  • Hit and runs

If you or someone you care about has suffered a pedestrian accident as a result of these conditions, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you need for your expenses and recovery. Talk to a lawyer about the details of your situation and move forward with confidence, knowing that you have expert legal counsel. 

Pedestrian Accidents in Nevada

In 2021, Nevada ranked fourteenth in the nation for pedestrian accidents, according to NHTSA.   Due to the seriousness of the issue, it is important for drivers and pedestrians to watch out for each other. Data regarding Nevada pedestrian accidents reveal the following:

  • 79 pedestrian fatalities in the most recent reporting year
  • Majority of accidents happened between crosswalks, comprising 63% of fatalities.
  • 76% of accidents occurred after dark
  • Thursdays and Saturdays are the most common days for pedestrian accidents
  • Accidents caused by improper crossing, not yielding, and/or darting into traffic
  • Alcohol and/or drug use are common factors
  • Males between 46 and 55 are the most common victims

Common Types of Pedestrian Accident Injuries

Given the force and type of impact involved in a pedestrian accident, these events are traumatic and can cause serious injury and even death. While some injuries may be minor and only require a minimum amount of time to recover, others may cause long-term or life-long disabilities that may demand ongoing treatment and care. Some of the most common types of accidents a pedestrian can suffer include:

  • Broken or fractured bones
  • Bruises, sprains, and strains
  • Head injuries, including concussions and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
  • Neck injuries
  • Back and spinal injuries
  • Dental injuries
  • Internal bleeding
  • Amputation
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Psychological and emotional distress
  • Death

The treatment involved after an accident can become quite expensive, depending on the nature of the injuries. Working with pedestrian accident attorneys in Las Vegas, NV can help ease your financial strain by seeking compensation from the party that caused your injuries. A lawyer can review your specific situation to determine your best options for recourse and advise you on what action to take. Suffering a pedestrian accident injury is not the time to shoulder this burden on your own. 

What You Should Do After A Pedestrian Accident

Involvement in a pedestrian accident is a sobering and traumatic event. Shock, panic, and overwhelm may be among your first reactions, but it is important to follow certain steps after an accident, if possible, to ensure your safety and proper documentation. Taking steps right after the event can be crucial later in supporting your claim. After a pedestrian accident, it is highly recommended to do the following:

  • Receive medical attention: It’s important to receive medical attention after a pedestrian accident. Even if there are no obvious injuries, a medical professional should still provide a thorough examination of your condition to rule out any internal injuries. In addition to ensuring your safety, a record of your conditions after the accident can be helpful down the road if you choose to file a claim for compensation. 
  • Document the event: Taking photos and videos of injuries and vehicle damage is important for documenting the details of the accident. This documentation is evidence of the accident and will also be used to support claims for compensation. Any photographic evidence should also be provided to the insurance company when notifying them about your accident.
  • Take notice of witnesses: Observe if anyone was around during the time of the accident and witnessed what transpired. If so, you can talk with them to learn what they saw. However, your best course of action is to identify them to the police so they can take official witness statements. Witness statements may be used as evidence when you file a claim. 
  • File a police report: You should file a police report after an accident to ensure there is an official report on record. A police officer will also document the event to ensure accurate and thorough details, as well as take statements from witnesses. You may request a copy of a police report for your records. You will also need to provide this report to your insurance company.
  • Exchange information: Always exchange information with any other party involved in a pedestrian accident. You should provide each other with your names and contact information, license plate and driver’s license information, and your insurance information. 
  • Contact your insurance company: After an accident, it is important to call your insurance company to let them know what happened. You can then file a claim with them and receive a claim number for your records. The insurance company will also review the police report and investigate the accident as they work to determine fault and what money you could be owed. While they may pay out a monetary sum, a lawyer may also be needed to receive maximum compensation to cover your expenses.
  • Contact a lawyer: Contacting a lawyer after an accident can help alleviate the stress you may be feeling. A lawyer’s expert advice can help you determine what steps to take moving forward. They can also negotiate for you to ensure you receive everything you may be entitled to from the insurance company and/or the at-fault party. 

How Legal Representation Can Help You After a Pedestrian Accident Case in Las Vegas, NV

Pedestrian accidents are complex legal situations that may involve many layers, and working with a pedestrian accident lawyer is highly recommended for maneuvering through the legal system. A lawyer will be able to best identify and create the tailored approach you need for your situation. Your lawyer will gather and review all evidence, as well as take any statements needed to support and develop your case. 

As part of the legal process of filing a claim for compensation, your lawyer will also establish that negligence occurred at the time of the accident. Negligence happens when a person violates their duty to show reasonable care for others around them. As the foundation of a personal injury claim, establishing negligence reinforces your claim by showing which party was at fault for causing your injuries. 

In addition to negligence, comparative fault laws are taken into account. According to Nevada statute NRS 41.141, a person seeking compensation may be entitled to receive damages as long as they didn’t contribute to the accident by majority share. If it is discovered that the individual did indeed cause the majority of the accident, they may not be awarded any compensation for their injuries. When comparative negligence is determined, a percentage is applied to all parties involved to represent their level of fault. 

Statute of Limitations in Nevada

The time frame to bring a claim against someone who has caused personal injury is two years, as stated in NRS 11.190. Therefore, if a person wants to seek compensation for harm caused in a pedestrian accident, they are no longer able to file if it falls after the statute of limitations has expired. After that point, all rights are forfeited, and the injured party assumes all financial responsibility for their expenses. 

Types of Damages That May be Recovered for a Pedestrian Accident Case

The aftermath of a pedestrian accident can be overwhelming and financially crippling. You may be facing expensive medical bills, pain from injuries and/or restrictions, or an inability to work or perform certain activities. While a lawyer cannot undo what has happened to you, they can work to get you the compensation you need to offset your expenses and ease your situation. There are a few types of compensation that you may be entitled to receive depending on your situation. These can include:

  • Loss of wages or ability to work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Medical expenses
  • Damage to property
  • Compensation for disability needs
  • Punitive damages, in some case

Speak with a pedestrian accident lawyer in Las Vegas, NV, about your accident to determine what types of compensation you can request as part of your claim. The goal of any damages that are awarded is intended to make you as close to whole as you were prior to the accident. After reviewing the accident and your injuries, a lawyer will assess what compensation may be sought for your case. 

Hire a Pedestrian Accident Attorney in Las Vegas, NV 

A pedestrian accident can be an incredibly overwhelming and life-altering event. Dealing with the outcome of a pedestrian accident can quickly become expensive, stressful, and emotionally charged. If you are unsure what to do next, pedestrian accident lawyers can help you navigate the legal process and be an advocate for you.

At Mitchell Rogers Injury Law, we take your situation very seriously and work to ensure you receive all the compensation you may be entitled to so you can focus on healing and moving forward. We offer our clients a contingency fee model, so you do not have to pay anything unless we win your case. Learn more about how we can help during this difficult time by scheduling a free consultation with us today in Las Vegas, NV.