Reno Pedestrian Accident Attorneys Ready to Fight

Pedestrian accidents in Reno often happen in an instant, but the consequences can last a lifetime. Whether you were struck while walking along Wells Avenue, crossing a downtown intersection, or navigating a school zone in northwest Reno, the impact can be both physically and emotionally devastating. Victims frequently suffer broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or long-term disabilities that disrupt their careers and quality of life.

In the aftermath of a pedestrian accident, medical bills can pile up quickly, wages may be lost, and dealing with insurance companies becomes an uphill battle. You shouldn’t have to shoulder that burden alone. The experienced legal team at Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers is here to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Schedule a free case review with a Reno pedestrian accident attorney today. We’re here when you need us most.

Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents in Reno

Pedestrian accidents are often preventable tragedies caused by careless or reckless drivers. In Reno, hotspots like downtown, Midtown, and the university area see frequent foot traffic, and unfortunately, far too many collisions. Understanding the most common causes of these incidents can help victims recognize when negligence played a role and pursue compensation accordingly.

Distracted Driving

Distracted driving remains one of the top contributors to pedestrian crashes nationwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), taking your eyes off the road for even five seconds at 55 mph is like driving the length of a football field blindfolded. In Reno’s busier corridors, like South Virginia Street or Keystone Avenue, drivers glancing at their phones can easily miss pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks, with devastating results.

Speeding

Exceeding posted speed limits dramatically reduces a driver’s ability to react to a pedestrian. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that higher speeds increase both the likelihood of a crash and the severity of injuries sustained. In school zones or residential neighborhoods like Northwest Reno or Damonte Ranch, drivers rushing to beat a red light can cause serious, and sometimes fatal, injuries to those on foot.

Failing to Yield at Crosswalks

Nevada law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians in both marked and unmarked crosswalks. The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) regularly promotes pedestrian awareness campaigns for this reason. When motorists fail to stop for pedestrians with the right of way, especially near intersections or while turning, the legal consequences and physical harm can be severe.

Driving Under the Influence

DUI-related crashes are a major issue in Reno, particularly around entertainment districts or casino zones. Impaired drivers are significantly less likely to see or react to pedestrians, especially in low-light or high-traffic areas. According to the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety, nearly one-third of all traffic deaths in the state involve alcohol-impaired drivers, a statistic that underscores the risk to those walking along roadways late at night or near nightlife venues.

Poor Lighting and Weather Conditions

Many pedestrian crashes happen at night or during inclement weather, when visibility is compromised. In areas of Reno with limited street lighting or poorly maintained sidewalks, such as industrial corridors or outskirts of town, drivers are less likely to spot pedestrians in time. The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) emphasizes the importance of proper street lighting to reduce pedestrian fatalities, especially during early morning or late-night hours.

What to Do After a Pedestrian Accident in Reno

The moments following a pedestrian accident can be chaotic and overwhelming, but your actions in the immediate aftermath are critical for your health, safety, and any potential legal claim. Whether you’re hit near the Reno Arch, on your way to UNR, or in a quiet residential area, taking the right steps can make all the difference in your recovery.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if your injuries appear minor, it’s essential to get checked out by a doctor right away. Some serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms immediately. Getting prompt medical care not only protects your health but also creates a medical record that may be crucial in your case. The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services offers resources to help victims access affordable care after an accident.

Contact Law Enforcement

Always call 911 and report the accident. A police report can serve as a critical piece of evidence, especially if the driver tries to dispute fault. In Reno, the Reno Police Department will document the scene, interview witnesses, and gather details that your attorney can later use to build your case.

Document the Scene

If you are physically able, take photos of your injuries, the vehicle involved, crosswalk markings, street signs, and anything else that may show what happened. This includes getting the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses. These details may fade quickly, and having strong documentation can significantly strengthen your legal claim.

Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Alone

Insurance companies often reach out quickly after an accident to minimize their liability. They may pressure you to give a recorded statement or accept a low settlement. Before speaking to them, contact an experienced personal injury attorney who can handle communications on your behalf and ensure your rights are protected. Learn more about how insurance tactics work from the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.

Consult With a Pedestrian Accident Attorney

Navigating the legal process on your own can be daunting. A knowledgeable Reno pedestrian accident lawyer can help you determine fault, estimate the full value of your damages, and aggressively pursue compensation. Schedule a free consultation with Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers at www.carcrashlawyernevada.com to discuss your case and your options.

Serious Injuries Caused by Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrian accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the sheer vulnerability of the human body when struck by a motor vehicle. Unlike vehicle occupants, pedestrians have no protection from impact, which means even low-speed collisions can result in life-changing harm. If you were hit while walking in Reno, it’s important to understand the full extent of injuries you may be facing, both immediately and long term.

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

One of the most devastating outcomes of a pedestrian crash is a traumatic brain injury. TBIs can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage that impairs speech, memory, and motor function. These injuries often require ongoing neurological care, rehabilitation, and support services. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs contribute to about 30% of all injury-related deaths in the U.S., making them one of the most serious concerns in pedestrian collisions.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The force of a collision can cause damage to the spinal cord, which may lead to partial or complete paralysis. Victims may lose mobility, bladder and bowel control, or even the ability to breathe independently in severe cases. The Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation highlights how spinal injuries can permanently change a person’s independence and quality of life, not to mention the astronomical cost of lifetime care.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Fractures are extremely common in pedestrian accidents, especially to the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis. In many cases, these injuries require surgery, physical therapy, and extended time off work. Elderly victims and children are especially vulnerable to complex fractures that may never fully heal. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, compound and displaced fractures can cause significant complications, including infections and nerve damage.

Internal Injuries

Blunt-force trauma to the torso can lead to internal bleeding and damage to vital organs such as the lungs, liver, kidneys, or spleen. These injuries may not be immediately visible but can become fatal if not treated quickly. The National Library of Medicine notes that pedestrian victims often suffer multisystem trauma requiring emergency surgery and intensive care.

Soft Tissue Damage

While often underestimated, damage to muscles, tendons, and ligaments can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and long-term complications. Whiplash, herniated discs, and torn ligaments may require months of rehabilitation and can interfere with everyday tasks. These injuries are harder to prove in court without proper documentation, which makes medical follow-ups and legal representation essential.

Emotional and Psychological Trauma

Beyond physical harm, many victims of pedestrian accidents in Reno experience severe emotional distress, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). According to the American Psychological Association (APA), psychological trauma following serious injury can have long-lasting impacts on work, relationships, and mental health. Therapy and counseling should be part of any recovery plan, and victims may be entitled to compensation for emotional suffering as well.

Who’s Liable for a Pedestrian Accident in Reno?

Determining who’s legally responsible after a pedestrian accident is a crucial part of recovering compensation. In Reno, liability doesn’t always fall solely on the driver, multiple parties can share fault depending on how the accident occurred. Whether the collision happened on South Virginia Street, near the university, or in a residential neighborhood, understanding the legal framework is essential.

Drivers Who Violate Traffic Laws

Most pedestrian accidents are caused by drivers who break the law or behave negligently. This includes actions like speeding, running red lights, distracted driving, and failing to yield to pedestrians in marked or unmarked crosswalks. Under Nevada Revised Statutes § 484B.283, drivers must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians in crosswalks. When they fail to do so, they can be held financially liable for the resulting injuries and damages.

Commercial Vehicle Operators

Accidents involving commercial drivers, such as delivery trucks, shuttles, and rideshare vehicles, introduce another layer of legal complexity. These cases often involve larger insurance policies and the potential for employer liability.

Employers of Commercial Drivers

Under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior, employers may be held liable for accidents caused by their employees while they’re on duty. For example, if a delivery driver for a Reno-based logistics company hits a pedestrian while making deliveries, the employer’s insurance may be on the hook. Regulations from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) also play a role in assessing whether proper safety protocols were followed.

Rideshare Companies Like Uber and Lyft

When a pedestrian is struck by an Uber or Lyft driver, liability depends on the driver’s status in the app at the time of the crash. If the driver was transporting a passenger or en route to a pickup, the company’s commercial insurance may provide coverage. However, if the app was off, the driver’s personal insurance may apply instead. You can learn more about rideshare liability laws from the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Government Entities

In some cases, a poorly maintained roadway or malfunctioning traffic signal may have contributed to the accident. In these situations, the City of Reno or Nevada Department of Transportation could be partially at fault.

Suing a Government Agency

Claims against government entities must follow strict rules. Under the Nevada Tort Claims Act, victims are required to file a formal notice within a specific time frame. These claims are more complicated than standard injury lawsuits, and damage caps may apply. Consulting an experienced pedestrian injury attorney is critical if government negligence played a role in the accident.

Vehicle or Equipment Manufacturers

Sometimes the cause of the crash isn’t human error, but rather a mechanical failure. Brake malfunctions, defective pedestrian detection systems, or other design flaws can all contribute to pedestrian injuries. If a defect in the vehicle played a role, you may have a valid product liability claim against the manufacturer. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is a valuable resource for identifying recalls and safety defects that could support your case.

Nevada Pedestrian Laws and Your Rights

If you were injured in a pedestrian accident in Reno, understanding your rights under Nevada law is key to securing the compensation you deserve. The state has specific statutes that protect pedestrians and establish when and how motorists must yield the right of way. Knowing these laws can help you recognize when the driver was at fault, and when you have a strong claim.

Your Right to Use Crosswalks

Nevada law is clear that pedestrians have the right-of-way in both marked and unmarked crosswalks at intersections. According to Nevada Revised Statutes § 484B.283, drivers must yield to pedestrians crossing within any crosswalk. If a vehicle fails to stop or slows down only slightly before passing through, the driver is in violation of state law.

This right applies not just in high-traffic areas like downtown Reno or near the UNR campus, but also in quieter neighborhoods and school zones. When a driver disregards these laws and hits a pedestrian, it often results in both traffic citations and civil liability.

Legal Protection Outside of Crosswalks

Even when a pedestrian is not in a designated crosswalk, Nevada law still places a duty on drivers to exercise due care. While jaywalking may reduce a victim’s share of compensation under Nevada’s comparative negligence system, it does not automatically absolve the driver of responsibility. According to NRS § 484B.280, drivers must always watch for pedestrians and take steps to avoid a collision when possible, especially in low-visibility conditions or areas with heavy foot traffic.

Reno’s Pedestrian Safety Programs

The City of Reno has implemented pedestrian safety initiatives aimed at reducing accidents. These include improved crosswalk visibility, speed limit enforcement, and education campaigns. Through regional efforts like Zero Fatalities Nevada, local leaders aim to reduce pedestrian deaths by encouraging both drivers and pedestrians to be more vigilant.

Despite these initiatives, pedestrian accidents still occur with alarming frequency. If you’ve been injured due to a driver’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

What Are Your Rights After an Accident?

As an injured pedestrian in Reno, you have important legal rights that are specifically designed to protect you in the aftermath of a traffic collision. Nevada law recognizes the heightened vulnerability of pedestrians and provides several avenues for injured individuals to seek justice and compensation. Whether you were hit while crossing legally in a crosswalk or injured due to a distracted driver swerving off the road, you are not powerless.

Too often, insurance companies and negligent drivers attempt to shift blame onto the victim, hoping they’ll walk away without asserting their rights. But you are entitled to stand up for yourself, hold the at-fault party accountable, and demand full and fair compensation for your injuries. Understanding these rights, and taking immediate steps to protect them, can greatly influence the outcome of your case.

Below are some of the most important legal protections and options available to pedestrian accident victims in Reno.

File a Personal Injury Claim Against the At-Fault Party

If a negligent driver caused your injuries, you have the legal right to pursue a personal injury claim. This allows you to hold them accountable for the harm they caused and recover financial compensation. Nevada law permits injured pedestrians to file a claim for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering. The sooner you file, the stronger your case may be, especially when evidence and witness statements are still fresh.

Seek Compensation for Both Economic and Non-Economic Damages

You may be entitled to compensation for more than just hospital bills. Economic damages include things like ambulance fees, surgery costs, and lost income from missed work. Non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In severe cases, such as permanent disability or disfigurement, these damages can be substantial. An experienced attorney can help you calculate the full value of your claim based on the impact the accident has had on every part of your life.

Refuse to Speak to the Insurance Company Without Legal Counsel

Insurance adjusters often contact victims quickly after an accident, not to help, but to protect their company’s bottom line. They may ask you to give a recorded statement or accept a lowball offer before you’ve had time to understand your injuries. You have the right to decline communication with insurance companies until you’ve spoken to a lawyer. Legal counsel can help protect your interests and negotiate for a fair settlement that reflects the true cost of your recovery.

Have Your Case Evaluated at No Cost by a Qualified Attorney

Most pedestrian accident attorneys, including those at Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers, offer free initial consultations. This gives you the opportunity to review your case with a legal professional and understand your rights without any financial commitment. A consultation can clarify whether you have a strong claim, what compensation you may be entitled to, and how to move forward. It’s a risk-free step that can make all the difference in your recovery process.

Talk to a Reno Pedestrian Accident Lawyer Today

You shouldn’t have to suffer the consequences of a pedestrian accident alone. If you’ve been injured due to a driver’s negligence in Reno, whether in Midtown, downtown, or anywhere in Washoe County, you have legal options. The physical pain, emotional distress, and financial strain can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it without support.

At Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers, we’ve helped countless victims just like you recover the compensation they deserve. Our team understands Nevada’s pedestrian safety laws, how insurance companies operate, and how to build a case that gets results. We’ll investigate the crash, protect your rights, and fight for every dollar you’re owed.

Schedule a free case review with a Reno pedestrian accident attorney today with Ed Bernstein Injury Lawyers. We’re here when you need us most.