Tingey Injury Law Firm Cautions Nevadans as Pedestrian Deaths Hit Historic High

Having represented hundreds of greater Las Vegas residents affected by pedestrian accidents, Tingey Injury Law Firm attorneys are no strangers to these devastating events. For this reason, they’re seeking to spread the word about a new national study showing pedestrian fatalities at a 28-year high and warning Nevadans about the increased danger for these accidents.

The Governor’s Highway Safety Association study revealed that pedestrian fatalities nationwide surged by more than 50 percent over the last decade. The study also showed that 6,227 pedestrians were killed in 2018-more than were killed in any year since 1990.

The study cited an increase in trucks and SUVs as a major contributor to the uptick, as big vehicles are more likely to kill people in the event of an accident. Other factors included distracted driving (including cell phone use), speeding, more people walking to work, insufficient pedestrian road crossings, and population growth in certain areas.

Firm attorney Dean Tingey said that there are many factors that drive up pedestrian accidents in the Las Vegas area.

“This city is alive with tourist drivers who are distracted by the glitz and glamour of the city and the challenges of navigating new roads,” said Tingey. “Add to that throngs of pedestrians who are similarly distracted, and there is a perfect storm for accidents.”

Clark County (home to Las Vegas) made headlines in 2017 when pedestrian deaths hit an all-time high there. A total of 78 pedestrians were fatally injured that year, prompting a number of initiatives to bring collisions down. Inattentive drivers, speeding, and alcohol impairment all contributed to the county’s soaring pedestrian accident rates. Though 2018 saw fewer deaths, Las Vegas remains a hotbed for pedestrian crashes.

The Tingey Injury Law Firm team is made up of knowledgeable and experienced car accident attorneys. They help defend clients who have been involved in all kinds of traffic incidents in Las Vegas, including drunk driving crashes, semi-truck accidents, and motorcycle accidents. Tingey said that pedestrian accidents can be particularly catastrophic.

“When a vehicle barrels into an unprotected pedestrian, the pedestrian is no match for the brute force of metal and glass,” said Tingey. “People can end up with traumatic brain injuries or spinal cord injuries-and that’s if they survive at all.”

The accident injury attorneys at Tingey urge Nevadans to use extra care in light of the increased dangers to pedestrians.

“People should always be alert and on the defensive when they are walking near traffic,” said Tingey. “This study proves that the roads aren’t getting any safer, and we see that born out in our law practice.”

Tingey suggested that pedestrians stay out of crosswalks until they have met the eyes of the drivers waiting there, avoid looking at cell phones while walking, obey all traffic signals-even if they are in a rush, and wear light or reflective clothing if they are walking at night.

Tingey also cautioned drivers to put down all distractions (including phones) while behind the wheel, watch for road signs and crosswalks, and avoid driving while under the influence.

“One wrong move by a pedestrian or driver can ruin lives,” said Tingey. “We’ve seen it over and over again in our practice, and we can’t stress the importance of road safety enough.”

Tingey Injury Law Firm fights for the rights of those who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones due to the negligence of others. To learn more about the firm, visit www.TingeyLawFirm.com.

About Tingey Injury Law Firm

Tingey Injury Law Firm aims to provide the highest quality legal representation and counsel for those affected by personal injuries in Las Vegas. Cases include auto accident, wrongful death, work injury, personal injury (such as a slip and fall, or trip and fall), or dog bite. Their attorneys maintain a reputation for thoroughness and preparedness that is recognized in the local community.