Las Vegas Accident Statistics

StatisticNews

  • Accident Causes

    NDOT Reminds Drivers to Move Over

    Statewide (March 29, 2021) – On March 30, 2015, Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) maintenance worker Ron Raiche, Jr. was struck and killed in a truck accident. The truck driver failed to give Raiche enough room to perform his duties, which resulted in tragedy. To honor the anniversary of Raiche’s death, NDOT reminds all drivers to “move over” for maintenance workers, emergency responders, law enforcement, city and county vehicles with flashing amber lights, and two vehicles. Doing so can help prevent wrongful death.

    Lerner and Rowe urges you and the drivers in your family to “move over,” as NDOT suggests. Raiche is the most recent of 24 NDOT employees to die on the job since 1948. His death could have been avoided if he was given enough room to work safely. Please do your part to keep maintenance workers, first responders, and law enforcement safe. Source: NDOT

    Bail Set at $750K for Impaired Trucker

    Searchlight (February 16, 2021) – Jordan Barson’s bail was set at $750,000 for driving under the influence of drugs, causing death, and reckless driving charges. He stands accused of causing a bicycle accident that resulted in the death of five bicyclists. The prosecutor claims that Barson had “more than nine times the amount of methamphetamine in his system needed to prove impairment.”

    Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a danger to everyone one on the road. If you or a loved one have suffered a personal injury due to a drugged or drunk driver, please contact us immediately. Our team can help you win the maximum compensation for your pain and suffering. Source: Las Vegas Sun

    I-580 Wind Advisory

    Statewide (January 8, 2021) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) has warned of heavy winds along the I-580. Vehicles over nine-feet high are temporarily prohibited. Winds between 20-35 mph, with gusts as strong as 75 mph, have hit the area between Carson City and Reno. These winds could cause disastrous truck accidents, due to taller vehicles having a higher center of gravity.

    Lerner and Rowe advises extreme caution if you’re driving on the I-580 during heavy winds. While tall vehicles are currently prohibited, not everyone will obey the rules. If you’ve gotten into a car accident due to a truck driver that ignored a wind advisory, Lerner and Rowe can help you seek maximum compensation. Source: NDOT

    Storm May Bring Rain and Snow to Nevada

    Statewide (December 11, 2020) The National Weather Services (NWS) has issued a storm warning for eastern Nevada. The agency claims that the storm has the potential to bring rain and mountain snow to parts of the state. Many Nevada drivers are unaccustomed to driving in rain or snow, since Nevada receives little precipitation.

    Lerner and Rowe urges you to drive cautiously and be mindful of panicked drivers this weekend in order to avoid a car accident. People joke that Nevadans become awful drivers when rain hits, but getting into a weather-related car crash is no laughing matter. Please remember that our team is available to help you 24/7 in the event of a car wreck or other winter injury. Source: NWS

    Majority of Pedestrian Deaths Happen at Night

    Statewide (November 20, 2020) – According to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDoT), 62% of pedestrian accident fatalities in the state occur between 6:00 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. Decreased visibility during hours of moderate to heavy traffic lead to an increase in accidents in the evening.

    Lerner and Rowe recommends wearing reflective clothing and sticking to well-lit paths if you plan to walk at night. Please follow these Las Vegas pedestrian safety guidelines for good measure. Should you get into an accident while walking, our pedestrian accident attorneys are available to help you 24/7. Source: NDoT

    NDOT Installing Additional Wind Warning Signs

    North Valleys (October 23, 2020) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) has announced that it will be installing six additional wind warning signs in North Valleys, NV. The signs will be positioned on U.S. 395 between Lemmon Drive and Village Parkway. Winds in Nevada can exceed 50 mph, leading to car accidents and motorcycle accidents.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds you to exercise caution while driving during heavy winds. The conditions make it easy to lose control of your vehicle. Additionally, large road debris becomes more frequent during windstorms. Please note that our team is available 24/7 if you or a loved one are injured in an accident caused by heavy winds. Source: NDOT

    Increased Work Zones Mean Increased Accidents

    Las Vegas (September 30, 2020) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDoT) has announced that Interstate 15 (I-15) will be undergoing nightly construction throughout the week. Expect nighttime lane, ramp, and shoulder closures on the city’s busiest freeway. The agency urges drivers to use caution while travelling through the work zone, heed construction signage, and take alternate detour routes, if possible.

    Lerner and Rowe encourages you to heed NDoT’s advice. Work zones often lead to an increase in car accidents. This is due to familiar roads suddenly changing shape, extra debris on the road, fewer lanes leading to increased traffic, and other factors. If you or a loved one get into a work zone accident, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Source: NDoT

    Two 17-Year-Old Girls Killed by Suspected Drunk Driver

    Last Vegas (August 7, 2020) – Two 17-year-old girls were killed by a 38-year-old driver while walking on a crosswalk. The driver, arrested under suspicion of driving under the influence, veered off the street and hit a sign before killing the two girls. After the girls were struck, the driver ended up hitting a traffic signal pole and a tree before finally coming to a halt.

    Lerner and Rowe sends its sympathies to the family of the two young women. Sadly, pedestrian accidents are on the rise in Nevada. In addition to drunk drivers, pedestrians are in danger from distracted drivers and large sports utility vehicles (SUVs). Our team would like to remind you to never get behind the wheel if you’re drinking and to seek out alternative transportation. Source: Associated Press

    Rising Temperatures Lead to More Accidents

    Statewide (July 6, 2020) – Summer has arrived in Nevada in full force, with temperatures regularly exceeding 100F. While many people associate summertime with fun-filled road trips, it’s also one of the most dangerous times to drive. Data shows that August in particular has more motor vehicle accidents than usual.

    Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys hopes that you and your family have a safe and enjoyable summer. Please check your car’s tires and fluid levels before embarking on a long drive. Making sure that your car is ready for the summer heat and avoiding distracted driving will help you and your loved ones avoid a car accident. Should you get into a summer car accident, please contact us for immediate assistance. Source: Nationwide

    Las Vegas Monsoon Season is Here

    Statewide (June 15, 2020) – Nevada monsoon season takes place every year from June to September. During this season, there are many hazardous conditions that could lead to car, truck, and motorcycle accidents. These conditions include thunderstorms, dust storms, flash floods, downburst winds, wildfires, and slick roads. Accidents can also occur due to heavy debris caused by a monsoon.

    Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys reminds you to use caution, should you get caught in a monsoon. Reduce your speed accordingly and pull over if necessary. Should you and your family get into an accident because of a monsoon or the resulting road conditions, contact us for immediate assistance.

  • Accident Statistics

    March Car Crashes and Fatalities Up Sharply

    Statewide (April 8, 2021) – Both car accidents and crash fatalities were up sharply in March 2021, according to data from the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). Car crashes were up 57% from March 2020, while car accident deaths rose by 78%. One possible cause for the increase is more drivers on the road and some of those drivers being out of practice, not having driven regularly due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

    If you were staying at home far more than usual over the last year and are just getting back on the road, Lerner and Rowe urges you to take things slowly and put an extra emphasis on safety. It’s completely understandable that some people’s muscle memory and reflexes are out of practice, due to a lack of driving. Should you get into an accident, please note that our team can help you 24/7. Source: NDOT

    Fatal Crashes Down in February

    Statewide (March 15, 2021) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) reported that fatal car accidents were down in February 2021. The agency reported 16 fatal crashes last month, compared to 22 in February 2020. NDOT also noted that impairment and speeding remain the two leading causes of fatal car accidents in Nevada.

    Lerner and Rowe is thrilled that Nevada roads have been safer thus far in 2021. Our team encourages you to make sure that nobody in your household drives while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Please use cruise control while on freeways, to make sure that you stay within posted speed limits. If we all make an effort to be more vigilant and drive safely, 2021 could be the safest year in Nevada yet. Source: NDOT

    Bicycle Accidents Up Sharply in 2020

    Statewide (February 2, 2021) – In addition to being a bad year for Nevada car accidents, other modes of transportation proved to be more dangerous than usual in 2020. Nevada bicycle accident fatalities were up nearly 43% in 2020, with Clark County having a 33% increase, according to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT). One of the reasons for the spike is an increase of bicyclists due to COVID-19.

    Lerner and Rowe hopes that you do everything possible to maximize your bicycle safety. Our team understands that there are many great Las Vegas neighborhoods for bicycling, but safety must always come first. If you or a loved one suffer an injury caused by a bicycle accident, our team is available to help you 24/7. Source: NDOT

    2020 Had Increased Crashes and Fatalities

    Statewide (January 13, 2021) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) has released its final counts for car crashes and fatalities in 2020. Despite having fewer drivers on the road due to COVID-19 restrictions, both crashes and fatalities increased in 2020. Automobile crashes were up slightly over 2% from 2019 totals, while fatalities were up by slightly over 3%.

    Lerner and Rowe is disappointed to learn that 2020 was more dangerous for motorists than 2019. Our team reminds you to obey all traffic laws and follow posted speed limits in order to lower your chances of a car accident. Should you or a family member get into a car crash, please know that our team is available to help you 24/7. Source: NDOT

    Pedestrian Accidents Up Sharply

    Clark County (December 21, 2020) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) has reported 58 pedestrian accident fatalities occurred in Clark County through November 2020. The agency reported 43 pedestrian deaths in all of 2019. Not including December 2020, pedestrian fatalities are up nearly 35% from last year.

    Lerner and Rowe is troubled by NDOT’s findings. Our team urges you to follow proper Las Vegas pedestrian safety. That said, we understand that some accidents happen no matter how safe you’re being. If you or a loved one have been involved in a Las Vegas pedestrian accident, do not hesitate to contact us for assistance. Source: NDOT

    Pedestrian Fatalities Up Sharply

    Statewide (November 7, 2020) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDoT) has reported that there have been 71 pedestrian fatalities through October 2020. The organization reported 54 between January and October 2019. This represents an increase of 32% more deaths in pedestrian accidents. One reason for the increase is more people walking due to the coronavirus outbreak; some people may not be familiar with the paths they take and be unsure of traffic laws.

    While it’s great that more people are walking outside, Lerner and Rowe urges you to use caution. This is especially important if you’re walking in areas you’re not familiar with or that have poor lighting. Keep an eye on traffic and always pay attention to your surroundings. Doing so can help you avoid a catastrophic accident. Source: NDoT

    Traffic Fatalities Up 4%

    Statewide (October 6, 2020) – According to the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDoT), there have been 189 traffic fatalities in the first 9 months of 2020. The figure represents a 4% year-over-year increase from 2019. The agency cited impairment and speeding as the leading causes of traffic deaths in 2020.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds you to never drive while under the influence of alcohol or drugs and to always obey posted speed limits. These failures greatly increase your chance of getting into a car accident. Should you or a loved one suffer an injury because of an impaired or speeding drive, our team is available 24/7 to assist you. Source: NDoT

    Motorcycle Riders 28 Times More Likely to Die

    Statewide (September 4, 2020) – According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety (NDPS) motorcycle riders are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than car drivers. The agency also reported that the males between the ages of 26 and 25 were involved in more Nevada motorcycle accidents than any other group.

    While Nevada is a fantastic state for motorcycle rides thanks to its sweeping views and open roads, Lerner and Rowe encourages you to drive safely and responsibly. Please follow our Las Vegas motorcycle safety tips to help ensure a smooth and incident-free ride. Please contact us immediately if you or someone you’re riding with is involved in a motorcycle crash. Source: NDPS

    Car Crash Fatalities Rise Sharply

    Statewide (August 1, 2020) – Nevada had a sharp decrease in car accident fatalities in May 2020, down more than 48% from May 2019. However, this was partially due to drastically less traffic as people sheltered in place for COVID-19. Unfortunately, June 2020 saw a sharp increase in fatalities, up 37% from the previous year.

    As more businesses open up, more people are driving. Some drivers haven’t been behind the wheel consistently in weeks or months. Their reaction times are off and their normally safe driving styles haven’t been practiced. If you’ve gotten into a Las Vegas car accident as Nevada eases into the new normal, Lerner and Rowe is available 24/7 to assist you. Souce: Nevada Department of Public Safety

    Speeding Up During COVID-19 Pandemic

    Statewide (July 24, 2020) – The Nevada Highway Patrol has observed increased instances of speeding during the COVID-19 pandemic. The agency reported 196 drivers cited for speeding between February and May, compared to 223 drivers cited during the same time frame last year. While those numbers are close, there was 70% less traffic in 2020 due to the pandemic, which means a much higher percentage of drivers breaking the speed limit.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds you to obey all posted speed limits to lower your chances of a car accident. On highways and freeways, use cruise control to stay at a legal speed. Should you get into a car accident because of a speeding driver, please contact us for immediate assistance. Source: NDPST

  • News

    Walmart Fire Caused by Paper Items

    Las Vegas (April 19, 2021) – For the second time in a week, a Las Vegas Walmart caught fire and had to be evacuated. Two weeks ago, a Walmart store was on fire due to arson. The Associated Press (AP) reported that last week’s Walmart fire was caused by a pallet of paper goods. Fires in Las Vegas can be difficult to control due to strong winds and high temperatures. Thankfully, Las Vegas Fire and Rescue was able to contain both fires with only two reported injuries.

    Lerner and Rowe encourages you to evacuate quickly and safely in the event of a store fire. Listen to store managers and follow their instructions. In addition to burn injuries from a fire, haphazard evacuation can lead to serious slip-and-fall injuries. Source: AP

    Downtown Street Closures Begin March 29

    Las Vegas (March 25, 2021) – The Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) will close nine streets in downtown Las Vegas as part of its Downtown Access Project. From March 29 through April 12 the following streets will be fully closed to car traffic: 7th, 8th, 10th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 19th, and 21st Streets at I-515. The recessed section of 4th Street will also be closed.

    Lerner and Rowe urges you to use caution while the street closures are in effect. Numerous reroutings in a small area can lead to driver confusion, which can lead to car accidents and pedestrian accidents. If you plan to visit downtown Las Vegas during the street closures, please plan your route beforehand. Should you get into an accident in downtown Las Vegas, please contact us immediately. Source: NDOT

    Las Vegas Receives $6-Million Grant for I-15

    Las Vegas (February 11, 2021) – The Regional Transportation Commission of Southern Nevada (RTC) and the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) have received a $6-million grant to outfit a portion of the I-15 with new technology. The funding comes from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Advanced Transportation and Congestion Management Technologies Deployment (ATCMTD) program.

    The agencies plan to deploy occupancy-detection sensors for HOV lanes and wrong-way sensors, as well as additional Active Traffic Management (ATM) signs. The goal is to use the money to improve traffic flow, eliminate congestion, and decrease the number of car accidents in Las Vegas. Portions of the I-15 in Las Vegas are used by more than 230,000 vehicles daily. Source: RTC

    COVID-19 Vaccine Appointments Available Online

    Las Vegas (January 14, 2021) – The Southern Nevada Health District (SNHD) has opened a COVID-19 vaccination appointment page on its website. Vaccinations will be administered at locations throughout Las Vegas and Henderson. The first wave of vaccinations will be available to seniors 70 years and older, frontline workers, and essential workers. The website will be updated as the vaccine becomes available to more Nevadans.

    Getting a vaccination for COVID-19 is a major step in defeating this potentially deadly virus. If you have seniors 70+, frontline workers, or essential workers in your family, please consider making an appointment as soon as possible. The sooner more people are vaccinated, the sooner Las Vegas can return to normal. Source: SNHD

    Advanced Signal Warnings to Impact December Traffic

    Clark County (December 3, 2020) – In an effort to keep highway motorists safer, the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDoT) is upgrading eight advanced warning signals in Southern Nevada. These electronic signs will prevent car accidents by notifying them of upcoming hazardous conditions. Data from other states shows that these signs can greatly reduce the number of car, motorcycle, and truck accidents.

    Expect construction delays from 9:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. on the following freeways: December 7-8 westbound State Route 160, December 9-10 westbound State Route 564, December 13-14 southbound U.S. Highway 93, December 14-15 eastbound State Route 163, December 15-16 southbound Interstate 15 offramp will be closed at Highland Avenue/Western Avenue, and December 17-18 northbound U.S. Highway 93. Source: NDoT

    Bicyclist Dead in Random Attack

    Las Vegas (October 27, 2020) – The Associated Press (AP) reported that a woman in her mid-50s died in a bicycle accident in Las Vegas. The bike rider was attacked by a passenger in a minivan that pushed her in an unprovoked attack. The assailant was hurled from the minivan, skidded more than 150 feet, hit his head on a lightpost, and died at the scene.

    Police have not released the identity of the victim or the assailant. However, a man suspected of being involved with the crime has been arrested for suspicion of murder and violating parole. Lerner and Rowe sends its thoughts and prayers to the victim’s family. This was a senseless crime that ended in tragedy. Source: AP

    Beware of COVID-19 Phishing Scams

    Statewide (September 11, 2020) – A new coronavirus phishing scam has been circulating online, with identity thieves claiming that people have been fined $59 for quarantine violations. The latest COVID-19 scam uses a “gov.us” domain in text, but links to a website that tries to extract personal information.

    Lerner and Rowe reminds you that US government websites end in “.gov”. Anyone can register a “.us” domain. While it’s important to keep track of your mental and physical well being during the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also important to guard against immoral people taking advantage of this terrible situation. Please share this information so that your family and friends do not become identity theft victims. Source: The Verge

    Three Dead in I-15 Accident

    Las Vegas (August 14, 2020) – Two adults and one child were killed in a car accident after their vehicle struck a pickup truck on Interstate 15. The Nevada Highway Patrol said that the driver made an abrupt lane change and hit a roadside cushion before striking the truck. The truck passengers were able to get out of their car before it caught fire.

    Lerner and Rowe sends its sympathies to the family of the victims. Our team reminds you to drive safely on Las Vegas freeways, particularly during the summer when there are normally more car accidents. Source: Associated Press

    Alleged Drunk Driving Crash Leads to Infant Death

    Las Vegas (July 17, 2020) – Lauren Loanna Prescia has been accused of driving under the influence (DUI), reaching speeds in excess of 120 mph. Prescia caused a crash that killed her one-year-old son and injured another driver. She has been arrested on felony charges of DUI causing death, reckless driving, and child abuse or neglect. Her hearing is set for July 20, 2020.

    The police report claims that Prescia was racing her son’s father after saying she was “going to beat him home.” Her reckless and thoughtless behavior has resulted in the death of a child. There are, unfortunately, drivers that do not consider the safety of their passengers and other drivers. At Lerner and Rowe Injury Attorneys, we empathize with this family’s loss because of this reckless act. If you’ve been injured in a car accident due to such a driver, please contact us for immediate assistance. Source: AP

    Improperly Disposed Fireworks Leads to $25K Fire

    Las Vegas (June 25, 2020) – The Associated Press (AP) reported that a $25,000 residential fire was caused by improperly disposed fireworks. Spent fireworks can remain hot and combustible hours after they’ve been used. Additionally, fireworks are illegal in Las Vegas, except for “safe and sane” fireworks, which may be used from June 28 to July 4. Improper use or disposal of fireworks could lead to a serious burn injury.

    With the Fourth of July approaching, Lerner and Rowe would like to remind you to use fireworks legally and safely. If you or a family member have suffered an injury caused by another’s negligent firework use, our team of skilled and compassionate personal injury lawyers may be able to assist. Source: AP