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Las Vegas Pedestrian Accidents: Who Is Liable When a Car Hits a Pedestrian?

By Sarah Banda • 02/19/2026

Las Vegas is one of the most walkable—and heavily trafficked—cities in the country. From the Las Vegas Strip and downtown Fremont Street to residential neighborhoods and school zones, pedestrians are everywhere. Unfortunately, this constant foot traffic also means a higher risk of serious accidents.

If you or a loved one was hit by a vehicle, you may be wondering who is legally responsible and whether you can pursue compensation. A knowledgeable pedestrian accident lawyer in Las Vegas can help you understand your rights under Nevada law.

Why Pedestrian Accidents Are So Common in Las Vegas

Pedestrian accidents happen for many reasons, but some of the most common contributing factors include:

  • Distracted driving, including texting or GPS use

  • Speeding or reckless driving in congested areas

  • Failure to yield at crosswalks or intersections

  • Impaired driving due to alcohol or drugs

  • Poor lighting or limited visibility at night

Tourist-heavy areas like the Strip add another layer of risk, with unfamiliar drivers, rideshare traffic, and heavy congestion increasing the chances of a pedestrian injury.

Who Can Be Held Liable in a Las Vegas Pedestrian Accident?

Liability depends on how the accident occurred and whether traffic laws were followed. Potentially responsible parties may include:

The Driver

Drivers are often liable when they fail to yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks, speed through intersections, run red lights, or drive while distracted or impaired. Nevada law generally favors pedestrians who are lawfully crossing the street.

The Pedestrian (Comparative Negligence)

Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning a pedestrian may still recover compensation if they were partially at fault—as long as they were less than 51% responsible. For example, a pedestrian crossing outside a crosswalk may still have a valid claim if the driver was speeding or distracted.

Other Potentially Liable Parties

In some cases, liability may extend beyond the driver, including:

  • Employers (if the driver was working at the time)

  • Rideshare companies

  • Government entities responsible for unsafe road design or malfunctioning signals

A skilled pedestrian injury attorney can investigate all possible sources of liability.

What to Do After Being Hit by a Car in Las Vegas

Taking the right steps after a pedestrian accident can significantly impact your claim:

  • Call 911 and request medical assistance

  • File a police report

  • Take photos of the scene, vehicle, and injuries

  • Gather witness names and contact information

  • Seek immediate medical treatment

  • Avoid discussing the accident with insurance companies without legal advice

Medical documentation is critical, especially since pedestrian injuries are often severe and long-lasting.

Common Injuries in Pedestrian Accidents

Because pedestrians have no physical protection, injuries are often catastrophic. Common injuries include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)

  • Spinal cord injuries

  • Broken bones and fractures

  • Internal organ damage

  • Severe lacerations and road rash

A Las Vegas pedestrian accident lawyer can help calculate the full scope of damages, including future medical care and long-term disability.

What Compensation May Be Available?

If negligence caused the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses (current and future)

  • Lost wages and loss of earning capacity

  • Pain and suffering

  • Emotional distress

  • Permanent disability or disfigurement

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize pedestrian claims. Having an experienced pedestrian injury attorney on your side helps level the playing field.

How Long Do You Have to File a Pedestrian Injury Claim in Nevada?

In most cases, Nevada allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, claims involving government entities may have shorter notice requirements.

Speaking with a Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorney as soon as possible helps ensure deadlines are met and evidence is preserved.

Talk to Banda Law Group About Your Pedestrian Accident Case

If you or a loved one has been injured in a Las Vegas pedestrian accident, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Banda Law Group has experience handling serious pedestrian injury cases and fighting for fair compensation.

We’re here to explain your rights, investigate liability, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

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