What You Should Know About Jaywalking In Nevada

Nevada is one of the states in the country whose urban planning doesn’t always account properly for pedestrian travel and as a result, it can be a very dangerous state for a pedestrian to move about. Not only does the infrastructure not appeal to safe pedestrian travel but the roads are becoming busier each year with automobiles. Drivers are also becoming increasingly more distracted behind the wheel. All combined, it can be a very challenging situation for a pedestrian to walk the streets of the state safely.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates that there were 46 pedestrian fatalities in 2013 alone. The NHTSA provides guidelines and tips that can help drivers and pedestrians try to engage in outdoor activities in a safer manner. The reality is, both pedestrians and drivers play a role in keeping the roadways safe for all to use. In the state of Nevada (NRS 484B.287), jaywalking is prohibited by law and one can be issued a citation if caught jaywalking.

Defining Jaywalking

When there are designated lanes in place that are meant for pedestrians, it is expected that they cross streets within these specific areas. Crossing outside of these areas is jaywalking and it can come with a significant fine in the state.

When one uses a crosswalk or adheres to the proper signage in an intersection, they have the right of way. This means that the pedestrian can cross and the vehicles on the road must yield to them. However, if a pedestrian enters a roadway outside of these labeled sections they risk distracting unsuspecting motorists and therefore a driver may be unable to hit the brakes in time to avoid hitting them. This behavior by pedestrians puts them at risk of serious hazards and harm.

Pedestrian Safety Tips

These are some things that pedestrians should keep in mind and engage in when out and about on and near roadways:

• Always use caution when crossing a road. Try to avoid crossing large highways and multiple lane roads especially when there are no designated intersections or crosswalks.
• Assume drivers on the road do not see you.
• Cross where there are large openings in traffic, don’t run out in congested traffic or when the roads are very busy.
• If traveling by foot or bike at night, make sure you have something visible on you like reflective materials or blinkers, and try to always use areas for crossing where lights improve visibility.
• Try not to walk around inebriated or intoxicated

Finding a Personal Injury Lawyer in Nevada

Most often, personal injuries are most common as a result of traffic accidents. However, they can also occur from everyday accidents in the workplace or doing mundane activities like walking on the sidewalk or crossing a street. It is important for pedestrians to know that if they obtain any injuries from motor vehicles where they were engaged in jaywalking, this fact alone could negate their ability to obtain compensation for their damages and suffering. The pedestrian may be the one that is liable and therefore they may have no legal ability to recoup losses.

If you have been injured as a pedestrian and want to find out if you have a valid claim, contact the Cottle Firm. We have been successfully assisting victims of personal injury throughout the state of Nevada. Our team of Las Vegas motor vehicle attorneys has obtained over a quarter of a billion dollars for victims we have represented. Call us today at 702-722-6111 and let us help you with your personal injury claim.