It isn’t uncommon for passenger vehicles to share roads with those who are walking or riding their bikes. Therefore, both drivers and pedestrians need to account for each other when using roadways in Nevada and throughout the country. Pedestrians can help keep themselves safe by using a sidewalk and by following all applicable traffic laws. If there is no sidewalk, individuals should walk facing traffic to increase their visibility.
Pedestrians should refrain from walking or biking while distracted or while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. They should also make eye contact with drivers before crossing a street. Ideally, a person looking to cross the street will do so at a stoplight or any other well-lit location where drivers expect this to happen. Drivers are encouraged to slow down when the weather is bad or at night when it can be harder to see.
Drivers are also encouraged to take their time when backing out of a driveway or a parking spot. When approaching a crosswalk, drivers should slow down and stop as soon as possible. This can give pedestrians extra space to cross safely while giving other motorists a chance to see that someone is walking in the road. Finally, no one should drive while under the influence of drugs or alcohol as it can impair their judgment.
A pedestrian who is hit by a car may experience significant head, neck or back injuries. He or she may also experience emotional trauma because of the accident. A driver who causes an accident could be liable for damages that a victim incurs. However, this assumes that a driver was negligent in causing the crash. An attorney may show that a driver was impaired, tired or otherwise responsible for breaching a duty of care to the victim.
