July 30, 2013

A public transit bus struck a man on Tuesday at a bus stop in front of Sam’s Town resort.
Metro Police responded about 5:45 p.m. to the collision between the Regional Transportation Commission bus and pedestrian at the bus stop near Boulder Highway and Nellis Boulevard.

Fortunately, this was not a fatal accident.

In the first half of last year, 29 pedestrians were killed in Clark County, and average of 1 per week. Most of these deaths occur near Boulder Highway. There are some obvious factors: Pedestrians disregarding traffic signals or crosswalks, inattentive drivers and drug or alcohol use often play a role. Eighteen of the 29 pedestrians killed were reported to be outside of a crosswalk or crossing against the signal when they were run over by a vehicle.

These accidents are not uncommon and human error plays a big role. Las Vegas is a very crowded city whose streets are often clogged with speeding cars; its sidewalks are narrow; some pedestrians, in fact, even said they have long-grown accustomed to standing as far back as they can from the bus stop shelters in fear of being hit by a vehicle.

It is imperative that public transport drivers, who are in charge of the safety of passengers, have adequate training and experience as well as being in top physical and mental condition to operate buses. Drivers who have only received the minimum training necessary to pass a test, tend to get involved in accidents more frequently, at least during their first year on the job.

When accident occurr, it’s important to act in an expedited manner to prevent witness or evidence from disappearing. Witness need to be identified and interviewed. If you feel that your injury is the result of the negligence of an inexperienced or a distracted driver, act quickly and get in touch with attorney Eric H. Woods. He will effectively represent you and will be able to obtain the best results in your favor. Remember, it is your health and well-being that are at play. The first appointment is free. We’ll evaluate your case and help you make the best decisions.