The recent deaths of five bicyclists outside Las Vegas have underscored the need for safer ways for cyclists and motor vehicle drivers to co-exist in Nevada.
When a bicyclist is struck by another vehicle due to negligence, the injuries are often serious. Fortunately, it may be possible for the victim to file a personal injury claim for compensation from the at-fault driver. At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we are proud to stand up for bicycle accident victims and their families.
If you or a loved one was hurt or killed in a bicycle accident in Las Vegas, call or contact us today for a free consultation.
Summary of the Incident
An annual bike trek covering 130 miles between Nevada and California turned deadly for a group of riders on US-95 South between Las Vegas and Boulder City. High winds made it necessary for several of the riders to follow the Subaru Hatchback that was escorting the group carrying gear and provisions.
Soon after, a box truck veered off the highway and into the bike lane. It struck several of the cyclists, pinning them between the truck and the Subaru.
Of 18 riders, five were killed and three were injured. The driver of the box truck cooperated with authorities at the scene. Later, however, lab work revealed “significant amounts” of methamphetamine in his system. As a result, police have charged the driver with six felonious charges of DUI — five resulting in death and one causing serious harm.
Nevada Bicycle Laws
The sheer scope of the accident has brought renewed scrutiny to Nevada’s bicycle laws. It’s also increased awareness of the challenges cyclists and motor vehicle drivers face in sharing the road, not to mention the danger posed by large trucks when the driver is impaired.
Las Vegas Metro Police highlighted a state law that requires drivers to give at least three feet of space while passing a bicycle rider.
The Nevada Division of Motor Vehicles lists the following laws and regulations related to bikes:
- Bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as other drivers in Nevada.
- Cyclists must ride to the right unless they are preparing to turn left or are able to match the speed of traffic.
- Helmets are not required in Nevada but strongly recommended.
- Safe passing is the responsibility of the motorist.
- Drivers must yield to cyclists at intersections.
- Motor vehicles may not drive on bike lanes and paths.
- Motorists must extend special courtesy to inexperienced riders, especially children.
- Bicyclists must always ride as far to the right as possible and follow the flow of traffic.
- Cyclists may ride two abreast, which means side by side.
Drivers who fail to give bicyclists the respect they deserve on the roads can be held liable for their negligence. Similarly, cyclists have a responsibility to follow the rules of the road to avoid being held partly liable for a wreck.
What Can a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Nevada Do For Me?
If you were injured while riding a bike in Las Vegas, you need a bicycle accident attorney who can investigate the case and identify every party who should be held liable for your injuries. That’s what THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys can do for you. We’ll also file the injury claim on your behalf, handle all the negotiations with the insurance company for you, and represent you at trial if needed.
THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys have an established record of success representing injured people throughout Las Vegas. We focus our practice exclusively on personal injury law and we’re highly regarded for getting results — more than $115 million recovered for our clients so far.
Call or contact us today for a free case review.
