Expert Legal Support for Pedestrian Accident Victims
Pedestrian accidents can result in devastating injuries and significant emotional and financial burdens. At Gina Corena & Associates, we understand the challenges you face and are here to help you navigate the legal process. Our experienced Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorneys are committed to securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation at (702) 680-1111.
Common Pedestrian Accident Injuries in Las Vegas
Pedestrians involved in accidents with motor vehicles often suffer severe injuries due to the lack of protection. These injuries can have long-term consequences on your health, finances, and overall quality of life. Common injuries include:
Damage to the spinal cord can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage.
Fractures
Broken bones, including compound fractures, often require extensive medical treatment.
Internal Injuries
Damage to internal organs can be life-threatening and may require surgery.
Permanent Disabilities
Some injuries may result in lifelong disabilities, affecting your ability to work and enjoy life.
What to Do After a Las Vegas Pedestrian Accident
If you or a loved one has been involved in a pedestrian accident, taking the right steps immediately can protect your health and legal rights. Here’s what you should do:
Call 911
Ensure that law enforcement and medical professionals are dispatched to the scene.
Document the Scene
Take photos and videos, gather contact information from witnesses, and note any relevant details.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a healthcare provider to ensure there are no hidden injuries.
Contact an Attorney
After receiving medical care, consult with a pedestrian accident lawyer to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Determining Fault in Las Vegas Pedestrian Accidents
One of the critical aspects of a pedestrian accident case is establishing who is responsible for the accident. Potential at-fault parties may include:
Negligent Drivers
- Distracted Driving:Texting, using a phone, or other distractions while driving.
- Speeding:Driving at speeds too high for conditions or exceeding legal speed limits.
- Drunk or Drugged Driving:Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Other Liable Parties
- Government Entities:Poor road maintenance, inadequate signage, or defective traffic signals may implicate local government agencies.
- Vehicle Manufacturers:Defective vehicle parts that contribute to the accident can make manufacturers liable.
- Dram Shops:Establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals can be held accountable if that individual causes an accident.
Nevada’s Modified Comparative Negligence Laws
Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which can impact your ability to recover compensation:
50% Bar Rule
You can recover damages as long as you are not more than 50% at fault. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages.
Fault Reduction
If you are partially at fault, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are 20% at fault, your damages will be reduced by 20%.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Pedestrian Accident
Insurance companies are notorious for minimizing payouts to protect their bottom line. Here’s what you can expect:
Lowball Offers
Insurance adjusters may offer settlements far below what you deserve.
Denial of Claims
Insurers might deny your claim based on technicalities or by shifting blame onto you.
Negotiation Tactics
They may try to pressure you into accepting a quick settlement that doesn’t cover your full expenses.
Having a skilled pedestrian accident lawyer on your side ensures that you have an advocate who will fight for the compensation you deserve and will take your case to court if necessary.
Compensation for Pedestrian Accident Victims in Las Vegas
Pedestrian accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation:
Economic Damages
- Medical Expenses:Includes hospital bills, surgery costs, rehabilitation, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages:Compensation for time missed from work and diminished earning capacity.
- Property Damage:Reimbursement for any personal property damaged in the accident.
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and Suffering:Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life:Damages for the inability to enjoy activities you once loved.
- Disfigurement and Scarring:Compensation for permanent physical changes resulting from the accident.
Punitive Damages
- Exemplary Punishment:In cases of gross negligence or intentional harm, the court may award punitive damages to deter similar conduct in the future.
Frequently Asked Questions About Las Vegas Pedestrian Accidents
What are the most dangerous intersections for pedestrians in Las Vegas?
Intersections such as Flamingo Road and Pecos Road, South Rainbow Boulevard and West Charleston Boulevard, and Nellis Boulevard at Boulder Highway are particularly hazardous for pedestrians.
Will my case go to court?
While many cases are settled out of court, it is possible that your case will go to trial if a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations.
Can I file a claim on behalf of my injured child?
Yes, parents or legal guardians can file a claim on behalf of a minor child who was injured in a pedestrian accident.
Contact a Las Vegas Pedestrian Accident Attorney Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a pedestrian accident, don’t hesitate to seek legal help. At Gina Corena & Associates, we are dedicated to helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Call us today at (702) 680-1111 for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form to get started.
Legal Resources
- American Bar Association (ABA): Provides general information on personal injury law, including pedestrian accidents and the rights of injured individuals. ABA
- Nevada Revised Statutes: Outlines the laws related to pedestrian accidents and liability in Nevada, which can help victims understand their legal rights. Nevada Revised Statutes
- Nevada Trial Lawyers Association (NTLA): A local organization that advocates for the rights of injured individuals, including those affected by pedestrian accidents. NTLA
Educational Articles and Guides
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): Discusses pedestrian safety and provides statistics on pedestrian injuries and fatalities, emphasizing the importance of safety measures. CDC
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): Offers resources on pedestrian safety, including tips for both pedestrians and drivers to prevent accidents. NHTSA
Local Context and Support
- Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department: Provides information on traffic safety and accident statistics, which can help contextualize pedestrian accidents in the area. LVMPD
- Las Vegas Review-Journal: A local news source that covers incidents involving pedestrian accidents and related legal cases, providing context on how these situations are handled in the community. Las Vegas Review-Journal
- Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT): Offers information on road safety initiatives and pedestrian safety programs in Nevada. NDOT