Las Vegas is an exciting destination for anyone looking to book a vacation. It offers world-famous casinos, hotels, restaurants, shows, and nightlife. It’s so popular, the city welcomed 40.8 million visitors in 2023 – 3.5 million people visited in April 2024! With so many sights to see and things to do, visitors often rent a car to get around the city conveniently. However, with heavy traffic and many distracted drivers and pedestrians, car accidents are common in Nevada. According to an auto accident lawyer in Las Vegas, you should follow the tips below to stay safe on the roads and know what to do if you’re in a crash while vacationing in Vegas.
Drive Defensively
Las Vegas has the dubious honor of recording 66% of Nevada’s road traffic fatalities. That said, the city has a lower risk of a fatal car accident than many other US cities, with 1.06 fatalities per 100 million vehicle miles traveled, according to Nevada’s traffic accident report.
The best way to avoid being involved in an accident is to drive defensively. Be alert and drive cautiously, as if expecting the other drivers around you to do something unexpected. Allow plenty of following distance between you and the car in front of you, keep your eyes moving to spot potential hazards, and reduce your speed in crowded areas.
Obey Las Vegas, NV Traffic Laws
Follow all traffic signs, signals, speed limits, and laws. Don’t speed, run red lights, roll through stop signs, or drive distracted. Getting pulled over or causing an accident because you broke a traffic law could ruin your vacation. Patience and focus are key to remaining violation-free.
Watch Out for Pedestrians While Driving
Be extra cautious driving on the Las Vegas Strip, as crowds can emerge suddenly between cars. Watch for pedestrians jaywalking or crowding intersection corners.
Avoid Distractions in Las Vegas
Distracted driving is a major cause of accidents, causing 3,308 deaths in 2022, so keep your full attention on the road. Don’t talk or text on your cell phone, program your GPS, eat, put on makeup, or engage in any other distracting behaviors while driving.
Drive Sober
DUI is illegal and extremely dangerous. Consuming alcohol or marijuana before driving impairs your ability to react and focus. Book a taxi or ride share, or use the Monorail if you plan to drink. The consequences of a DUI arrest or crash are severe.
Inspect Your Nevada Rental Car
Do a quick walk-around inspection of any rental car for damage before leaving the lot. Look for dents, scratches, bald tires, and lights not working. Notify the agent of any issues to avoid liability. Also adjust mirrors and seats for safety.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Las Vegas
If you are involved in a crash while on a trip to Las Vegas, make sure to do the following:
- Move your vehicle out of harm’s way if possible and turn on your hazard lights. Moving out of traffic lanes prevents secondary collisions.
- Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
- Render aid to any injured parties if you can safely do so until first responders arrive.
- Get the contact information from any dother drivers that are involved.
- File a police report.
- Do not discuss fault or make any statements admitting guilt to others.
- Seek medical attention even for minor injuries to get checked out. Injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Consult a lawyer if anyone was seriously injured in the crash or you have any legal concerns.
Be sure to get legal guidance to determine the best course of action. Staying calm and organized after an accident helps ensure your vacation isn’t completely ruined.
Image: Pixabay, by zzim780
