An 11-year-old girl was tragically struck and killed while crossing Lake Mead Boulevard in Las Vegas’ Historic Westside on Monday evening, according to local news. The crash occurred just after 5 p.m. when a Nissan Sentra traveling westbound through a construction zone collided with the child as she crossed outside a marked crosswalk. Despite the driver’s attempt to brake and swerve, the collision could not be avoided. Emergency personnel determined the child had died at the scene, and investigators confirmed the driver showed no signs of impairment. This incident marks the 141st traffic-related fatality in Las Vegas for 2025. It has also prompted renewed calls from authorities for increased pedestrian safety awareness.
Tragic events like this Clark County pedestrian accident highlight the heartbreaking reality that children are especially vulnerable on busy streets. A split-second decision or moment of distraction can result in a loss that devastates families, friends, and entire communities. These accidents are painful reminders of the importance of safety, awareness, and accountability on our roads. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a Clark County pedestrian accident, you deserve support, answers, and experienced legal guidance. Give us a call at (702) 623-4518 to schedule a free, confidential review of your case.
Why a Clark County Pedestrian Accident Attorney Is Essential After a Serious Crash
After a devastating pedestrian crash, a skilled Clark County pedestrian accident attorney from Ed Bernstein Injury can provide the essential support victims and their families need during such an overwhelming time. We will investigate the full circumstances of the incident, gather police reports, witness statements, and medical records, and work to uncover exactly what happened. Our Clark County pedestrian accident attorneys fight tirelessly to pursue the maximum compensation available for injuries, losses, and long-term impacts. We handle all communication and negotiations with insurance companies that may try to minimize your claim, ensuring your rights remain protected.
At Ed Bernstein Injury, we work to ensure your story is heard and your needs remain the priority. With a commitment to personalized attention, compassion, and proven legal skill, our trusted pedestrian accident attorneys will stand by you every step of the way. We fight tirelessly to secure the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life. When you choose Ed Bernstein Injury, you choose a team that refuses to back down until justice is served.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Clark County
Pedestrian accidents in Clark County often occur due to preventable factors that place vulnerable road users at risk. Many Clark County pedestrian accident cases involve drivers who speed through residential zones, fail to yield at crosswalks, or become distracted behind the wheel. Poor visibility at night and heavy foot traffic in busy areas near schools, casinos, and intersections can also increase the danger. Understanding the common causes behind these incidents helps highlight the urgent need for better safety, awareness, and accountability on our roads.
Speeding in Residential and Urban Areas
Speeding is a major contributing factor in many Clark County pedestrian accident cases, especially in neighborhoods and busy commercial districts. When drivers exceed posted limits, they have less time to react to pedestrians entering crosswalks, stepping off curbs, or walking near road construction zones. High-speed impacts also lead to more severe injuries, making even minor collisions potentially life-threatening. Many speeding-related accidents occur near schools, apartment complexes, and casino corridors where foot traffic is heavy. Reducing speeds in these areas is crucial to lowering the risk of future tragedies.
Unsafe Road or Lighting Conditions
Poor lighting, obstructed signage, and uneven roads can also play a significant role in a Clark County pedestrian accident. Pedestrians are far harder to see at night when streetlights are dim or malfunctioning, and construction sites often add debris or confusing detours. Missing or faded crosswalk markings make it difficult for both drivers and pedestrians to know where crossing is intended. These hazardous conditions increase the likelihood of collisions, especially in older neighborhoods where infrastructure may be outdated. When road conditions contribute to an accident, multiple parties may share responsibility.
Impaired Driving
Impaired driving creates a dangerous environment for pedestrians throughout Clark County. Drivers who are impaired often struggle with slowed reaction times, poor judgment, and reduced awareness, making it far more difficult to avoid hitting someone in their path. Sadly, many nighttime Clark County pedestrian accident fatalities involve drivers who were under the influence at the time of the crash. Even when impairment is not obvious, toxicology tests sometimes reveal substances that may have influenced the driver’s behavior. These cases often lead to criminal charges in addition to civil liability.
Backing-Up Accidents in Driveways and Parking Lots
Many Clark County pedestrian accident injuries occur in parking lots, private driveways, and commercial properties where vehicles frequently back up. Drivers may fail to check blind spots, rely too heavily on backup cameras, or become distracted while reversing. Because pedestrians can appear suddenly behind a moving vehicle, these collisions often happen at low speeds but still cause serious harm. Parking lots near grocery stores, casinos, and apartment complexes are particularly high-risk due to constant foot traffic. Extra caution is necessary whenever a vehicle is backing out of a space.
Turning Without Checking for Pedestrians
A significant number of Clark County pedestrian accident cases involve drivers who turn right or left without checking for pedestrians in the crosswalk. These incidents often occur when drivers focus solely on vehicle traffic and fail to notice individuals stepping into the intersection. Left-turn collisions are especially dangerous because drivers may misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic and rush the turn. Pedestrians may assume vehicles will yield, creating a deadly misunderstanding. Improved driver awareness and clearer crosswalk markings can help reduce these preventable crashes.
Why Pedestrian Accident Cases Are More Complex Than Other Injury Claims
A Clark County pedestrian accident often leads to more serious injuries and longer recovery times than typical vehicle collisions. Pedestrians have no protection against a moving vehicle, which means even low-speed impacts can cause life-altering harm. Determining fault may also require a deeper, more technical investigation, especially in areas with poor lighting, confusing road layouts, or heavy construction. Because these cases frequently involve multiple parties and higher medical costs, they require a strategic legal approach to ensure victims receive fair compensation. Having an experienced attorney on your side becomes essential for navigating these complexities and protecting your rights.
Multiple Liable Parties
Some Clark County pedestrian accident cases involve more than one responsible party, which adds layers of complexity to the claim. Besides the driver, liability may extend to local government agencies responsible for maintaining safe roadways, construction contractors who created hazards, or businesses that failed to manage pedestrian traffic near their property. When multiple parties share blame, each insurer may try to shift responsibility to avoid paying. Sorting through these competing interests requires thorough investigation and strong legal strategy to ensure that all liable parties are held accountable.
Government or Public Agency Liability
Poor lighting, missing crosswalks, or faulty traffic signals may point to errors by city or county agencies. Claims involving public entities often have shorter deadlines and strict filing requirements.
Contractor and Business Negligence
Construction companies or nearby businesses may contribute to unsafe road conditions. These parties can be held liable if their negligence created hazards for pedestrians.
Higher Damages
Pedestrian accidents commonly result in catastrophic injuries that require extensive medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and ongoing therapy. Because victims often experience broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal damage, or internal injuries, the overall cost of a Clark County pedestrian accident is usually far higher than a typical auto collision. These higher damages also include emotional trauma, reduced mobility, and diminished quality of life. As a result, insurance companies frequently fight these claims aggressively, making it crucial for victims to have strong legal representation advocating for their full recovery.
Long-Term Medical Treatment
Severe injuries may require surgeries, specialist visits, and years of physical therapy. These long-term needs significantly increase the overall value of the claim.
Loss of Future Earning Capacity
If injuries prevent victims from returning to their previous jobs, they may lose lifetime income. Calculating these losses requires expert insight and detailed documentation.
Complex Accident Dynamics
Pedestrian collisions often involve complicated accident dynamics that are not immediately clear. Factors such as vehicle speed, driver reaction time, pedestrian visibility, and road design must all be analyzed. Because of these complexities, attorneys often work with accident reconstruction experts to understand how the crash occurred. These professionals use measurements, video evidence, and scientific modeling to recreate the incident and identify who is truly at fault.
Evaluating Lighting and Visibility
Nighttime accidents often hinge on lighting, shadowed areas, and reflective clothing. Experts assess whether the pedestrian should have been visible to a careful driver.
Reconstructing Driver Behavior
Speed calculations, braking distances, and steering angles help determine whether the driver acted reasonably and responsibly at the time of the crash.
Disputes Over Fault
Fault is frequently contested in Clark County pedestrian accident cases, especially when the victim was crossing outside a marked crosswalk or in an area with unclear signage. Insurance companies may attempt to blame the pedestrian to reduce payouts, even when driver negligence played a significant role. Proving liability requires gathering strong evidence, including surveillance footage, witness statements, vehicle data, and police reports. A skilled attorney helps counter these arguments with facts and expert testimony.
Comparative Negligence in Nevada
Nevada follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning the pedestrian’s compensation can be reduced if they are found partially at fault. Attorneys work to limit unfair fault percentages.
Countering Insurance Arguments
Insurers may claim the pedestrian “darted out” or was not visible. Thorough evidence collection helps disprove these common defenses.
Difficult Insurance Negotiations
Insurance companies often push back hard on pedestrian accident claims due to the high compensation involved. They may challenge the severity of injuries, question medical treatment, or offer low settlements to close the case quickly. Negotiating successfully requires understanding insurance tactics and presenting organized evidence that clearly demonstrates fault and damages. Without legal support, victims may unknowingly accept far less than they need to recover.
Minimizing Injury Severity
Insurers may suggest injuries were preexisting or unrelated. Medical records and expert opinions help establish clear connections to the accident.
Delaying or Disputing Medical Care
Some insurers delay authorizations or question treatment plans. Persistent, informed advocacy ensures victims receive the care they deserve.
How Pedestrian Accident Settlements Are Calculated
Pedestrian accident settlements in Clark County are based on the full impact a crash has on a victim’s life, including financial losses, physical harm, and long-term emotional consequences. Attorneys evaluate medical bills, future treatments, lost income, property damage, and the overall effect the injuries have on the victim’s daily life. Non-economic harms—such as pain, suffering, trauma, and diminished quality of life—also play a significant role. Because every case is unique, calculating a fair settlement requires a detailed understanding of the victim’s current needs and anticipated future challenges. A carefully built damages claim ensures the victim receives compensation that truly reflects the cost of the accident.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the measurable financial losses caused by the accident. These damages are documented through medical records, pay stubs, repair invoices, and expert assessments outlining future needs. They form the foundation of a pedestrian accident claim and often represent a significant portion of the settlement. By compiling accurate financial evidence, victims can recover the full cost of their injuries and regain stability in the aftermath of the crash.
Medical Costs
Medical expenses are often the largest component of economic damages. These costs may include emergency room care, hospital stays, imaging tests, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy. For many victims, long-term care needs such as rehabilitation, specialist visits, or assistive devices must also be factored in. Comprehensive documentation ensures every treatment is accounted for, preventing out-of-pocket expenses down the road.
Lost Wages
If injuries prevent a victim from working, compensation for lost wages and reduced earning capacity becomes essential. This includes income missed during recovery, reduced hours, or long-term limitations that affect a victim’s ability to return to their previous position. Attorneys gather employment records, medical restrictions, and expert evaluations to calculate these losses accurately. For serious injuries, loss of earning potential can significantly increase the overall claim value.
Vehicle and Property Damage
Vehicle damage, repair costs, or complete replacement values are included in settlement calculations. These expenses are supported by photographs, mechanic evaluations, and repair estimates. Property damage also extends to items inside the vehicle, such as phones, car seats, laptops, or personal belongings. Because these losses are easier to document, they are often resolved early in the claims process.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages reflect the emotional, physical, and psychological impact of a Clark County pedestrian accident. These losses do not come with receipts or specific price tags, but their impact on a victim’s life is often profound. Attorneys rely on medical documentation, personal statements, and expert evaluations to explain how the injuries have affected daily life, mobility, relationships, and emotional well-being. These damages ensure the settlement addresses more than just out-of-pocket costs.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering includes physical pain, long-term discomfort, and chronic injuries that persist even after medical treatment. Victims may experience mobility limitations, ongoing pain, or complications that affect their ability to work or participate in activities they once enjoyed. Thorough documentation and medical opinions help determine appropriate compensation for these lasting hardships.
Emotional Distress
Pedestrian accidents can trigger emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, or fear of driving. Victims may struggle with sleep disturbances, flashbacks, or difficulty performing routine tasks due to stress. These psychological consequences are taken seriously when calculating damages, as they significantly affect the victim’s quality of life. Mental health treatment notes and testimony from psychologists or therapists often support these claims.
Factors That Influence Settlement Value
Several factors impact the final settlement amount, making each case unique. Understanding these elements gives victims realistic expectations and helps attorneys build the strongest possible case.
Severity of Injuries
More severe injuries generally increase the value of a claim. Catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or multiple fractures require substantial medical care and long recovery periods. These injuries also create higher non-economic damages due to the long-term impact on daily life.
Strength of Evidence
Strong evidence strengthens the victim’s position in negotiations. That might include traffic camera footage, police reports, witness statements, crash reconstruction, and citations. Clear documentation of fault makes it harder for insurers to dispute liability and often leads to faster, more favorable settlements.
When a Clark County Pedestrian Accident Case May Go to Court
Although most Clark County pedestrian accident claims settle through negotiation, there are situations where litigation becomes necessary. A claim may move into the courtroom if liability remains unclear, the insurance company disputes the severity of injuries, or settlement offers fail to reflect the true extent of the victim’s losses. While going to trial can extend the timeline of a case, it can also provide the opportunity to present all evidence publicly and seek a judgment that better aligns with the victim’s needs.
Disputes Over Fault
Disagreements about who caused the accident are one of the leading reasons Clark County pedestrian accident cases proceed to court. When both drivers present conflicting narratives, it becomes difficult to resolve liability through negotiation alone. In these situations, attorneys may bring in expert witnesses, analyze crash scene evidence, or reconstruct the accident to establish how the collision occurred. Going to court allows a judge or jury to weigh the credibility of each side and make a determination based on all available facts.
Conflicting Witness Statements
Witness statements often play a critical role in determining fault, but accounts can vary significantly from person to person. Factors such as poor visibility, fast-moving traffic, or the sudden nature of the crash can influence what each witness recalls. In court, attorneys evaluate each testimony for accuracy, consistency, and reliability. By comparing these statements with physical evidence and expert analysis, they can help the court determine which version of events is most credible.
Lack of Clear Evidence
Some cases move to litigation because key evidence is missing or incomplete. Without clear video footage, photographs, or detailed police reports, it can be difficult to prove liability during negotiations. In these situations, accident reconstruction experts may be needed to analyze vehicle damage, skid marks, impact angles, and other technical factors. By presenting this reconstructed evidence in court, attorneys can help establish what happened and support a more accurate finding of fault.
Disputes Over Injuries and Damages
Another major reason Clark County pedestrian accident claims go to court involves disagreements about the nature or severity of the victim’s injuries. Insurance companies may argue that symptoms predated the crash, that medical treatment was excessive, or that the injuries are not as severe as claimed. These disputes can result in unfairly low offers, leaving victims without the resources they need to recover. Litigation provides a forum for presenting medical evidence, expert testimony, and documentation that clearly demonstrates the true impact of the injuries.
Medical Disagreements
Insurance companies often rely on their own medical reviewers who may downplay injuries or dispute the need for certain treatments. When this occurs, doctors, specialists, and other medical experts may testify in court to explain the full extent of the injuries and the necessity of ongoing care. Their expertise can help counter misinformation and provide the judge or jury with a clearer understanding of the victim’s medical needs.
Low Settlement Offers
Insurers sometimes refuse to offer compensation that reflects the long-term impact of the accident. Lowball offers are especially common when medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering are significant. When an insurance company fails to negotiate fairly, taking the case to court allows the victim to pursue full and fair compensation. Judges and juries often award higher damages when the evidence clearly supports the victim’s hardships.
Strategic Reasons to Go to Court
In some cases, litigation becomes a strategic tool rather than a necessity. Filing a lawsuit can place pressure on the insurance company, encouraging them to participate more earnestly in settlement discussions. The prospect of trial involves significant costs and unpredictability for insurers, which can motivate them to increase their offers.
Leveraging Trial Pressure
The risk of an unfavorable verdict often pushes insurance companies to settle cases before they reach the courtroom. Once litigation begins, insurers understand that a judge or jury may award far more than what they initially offered. This pressure can lead to improved settlement negotiations and a more favorable outcome for the victim.
Presenting Evidence Publicly
Trials allow attorneys to present evidence directly to a judge or jury, offering transparency that is not always achieved through private negotiations. By showcasing witness testimony, expert reports, accident reconstructions, and medical findings in a formal setting, attorneys can clearly demonstrate the extent of the defendant’s negligence and the victim’s losses. This visibility often strengthens the victim’s claim and increases the likelihood of a fair judgment.
Steps to Take After a Serious Pedestrian Accident in Clark County
The moments following a serious pedestrian accident can feel overwhelming, but the steps you take immediately afterward can have a lasting impact on your health, your financial recovery, and your legal rights. Acting promptly and cautiously helps ensure your safety, strengthens any future claim, and prevents common mistakes that could weaken your case. By focusing on medical care, documentation, and proper reporting, you give yourself the best chance at securing full compensation for your injuries. Understanding these steps now can make a major difference if you ever face the aftermath of a Clark County pedestrian accident.
Seek Immediate Medical Care
Your health should always be the top priority after a crash. Even if you feel fine or believe your injuries are minor, the shock and adrenaline from the accident can mask serious conditions. Internal injuries, concussions, and soft-tissue damage may not show symptoms until hours or days later, making early medical care essential. Seeking treatment right away helps protect your health and creates a clear medical record linking your injuries to the accident.
Visit a Doctor Promptly
A prompt medical evaluation ensures that hidden injuries are identified and treated before they worsen. Doctors can order imaging tests, document symptoms, and outline the next steps for recovery. This documentation is crucial evidence should your case involve disputed injuries or insurance challenges.
Follow All Treatment Instructions
Attending follow-up appointments, taking prescribed medications, and adhering to physical therapy recommendations show that you are taking your recovery seriously. Consistent medical care strengthens your claim by demonstrating that your injuries required real and ongoing treatment. Missing appointments or ignoring instructions can be used against you later.
Report the Accident
Reporting the collision is a key step in protecting your legal rights. A formal accident report provides an objective record of the scene, documenting essential details that support your version of events. Without this record, it may be more difficult to prove fault or challenge an insurer’s determination.
Contact Local Law Enforcement
Police officers will assess the scene, gather statements, and record visible injuries and property damage. They also note potential contributing factors such as speeding, impairment, or traffic violations. This information becomes an important tool for determining liability.
Request a Copy of the Report
After the report is filed, request a copy for your records. Attorneys rely heavily on police reports when negotiating with insurers or preparing for litigation. Having a copy ensures you can verify the accuracy of key details and identify any inconsistencies.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you are physically able and it is safe to do so, gathering evidence at the scene can significantly strengthen your claim. Details captured immediately after the crash are often the most accurate and can provide clarity that might otherwise be lost.
Take Photos and Videos
Photographs and videos of the accident scene help tell the full story of the collision. Capture vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, traffic lights, weather, and any visible injuries. This visual evidence can help reconstruct the crash and confirm how it occurred.
Obtain Witness Names
Witnesses often provide valuable insight into the events leading up to the crash. Collect their names, phone numbers, and a brief description of what they saw. Their testimony may clarify disputed details and support your version of events later in the claims process.
Avoid Discussing the Accident With Insurers Alone
Insurance companies often move quickly to contact victims after a crash, and their questions may seem harmless. However, adjusters are trained to gather information that limits the insurer’s financial responsibility. Speaking with them alone can lead to statements being taken out of context or used against you.
Let an Attorney Handle Communication
An experienced attorney understands the tactics insurers use and ensures your rights remain protected. Allowing your lawyer to manage all communications prevents you from being pressured into harmful statements or agreements. This support also helps you focus on recovery rather than negotiation.
Decline Early Settlement Offers
Early settlement offers are often significantly lower than the true value of your claim. Insurers may hope to resolve cases quickly before the full extent of injuries or long-term consequences is known. Declining premature offers ensures you do not settle for less than you need to cover medical care, lost income, and future expenses.
Contact an Experienced Clark County Pedestrian Accident Attorney
A pedestrian accident in Clark County can change your life in seconds, leaving you facing painful injuries, mounting medical bills, and emotional trauma that can feel impossible to navigate alone. The confusion that follows an unexpected collision can make it difficult to know where to turn or how to protect your rights. During these challenging moments, having a trusted legal advocate by your side can bring stability and clarity when you need it most. Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers understands the fear and uncertainty that follow a serious pedestrian crash and is dedicated to guiding you through every step with compassion, skill, and unwavering support.
At Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we have spent decades standing up for injured pedestrians throughout Nevada, fighting for the justice and compensation they deserve. Our team handles every aspect of your case, from investigating the accident and gathering crucial evidence to negotiating with insurance companies determined to minimize your claim. We bring a deep understanding of Nevada law and a commitment to protecting your rights at every turn. When you choose our firm, you gain a devoted legal team focused on achieving the best possible outcome for you and your family. Call us today at (702) 623-4518 or reach out through our online form to schedule your free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
Contact usfor a free consultation.
Phone: (702) 707-6068