Pedestrians suffer some of the worst crash-related injuries seen in any type of car accident. Unprotected human beings simply aren’t built to survive collisions with 4,000-pound vehicles. If you are injured as a pedestrian or a bicyclist, your auto insurance policy may not cover you. Although your injuries are catastrophic and treatment will be extremely expensive, you typically will not have underinsured motorist coverage available, either. You’ll need a Reno pedestrian accident lawyer in your corner.
The pedestrian injury lawyers at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. represent pedestrians and cyclists who have been hurt by negligent drivers. We have recovered millions for our clients because we thoroughly prepare cases for trial, utilizing a wide array of resources and tools to fight for maximum compensation.
Call (775) 284-8888 to discuss your case in a free case consultation with our pedestrian accident lawyers in Reno.
Who is at Fault For a Pedestrian Accident in Nevada?
While it is not technically true that “pedestrians always have the right-of-way,” motorists are responsible for doing everything they can to avoid hitting individuals on foot. This is because a pedestrian is no match for a large, heavy, fast-moving vehicle; while motorists in a car are protected by doors, glass, seatbelts, and airbags, pedestrians are completely unprotected and, therefore, highly susceptible to catastrophic or fatal injuries in the event of a collision.
That being said, pedestrians are required to also obey all laws and rules of the road. Wherever possible, pedestrians should avoid crossing streets outside of intersections and should always obey all traffic control devices, such as “do not walk” signals/signs, crossing guards, etc. Pedestrians should also cross in crosswalks whenever possible and refrain from walking along highways and other areas where they are not permitted, except in emergencies.
Common Examples of Motorist's Negligence
Unfortunately, most pedestrian accidents are the result of a motorist’s negligence. Examples of this include:
- Texting and driving
- Eating or drinking while driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol/drugs
- Speeding
- Running red lights/stop signs
- Driving while fatigued
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Driving in designated crosswalks/bike lanes
- Opening car doors into pedestrians’/bicyclists’ paths
- Aggressive driving
If you were injured or if your loved one was killed in a pedestrian accident caused by a careless, reckless, or negligent motorist, reach out to our Reno pedestrian injury lawyers at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. to learn how we can help.