Last Updated on September 29,2023
The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way of life for individuals across the United States. Children are home from school, adults are working from home. There are fewer visits to see friends and family or to attend events. During such a disruptive and confusing times, people are doing their best to see the silver lining. More time with family and reduced pollution are some positives that have been pointed out.
In these challenging times, it’s essential to be aware of other concerns that might arise. For instance, with many elderly individuals isolated in nursing homes, there’s an increased need to be vigilant about potential nursing home abuse. Recognizing the signs of elderly abuse can be crucial in such situations. Additionally, it’s worth noting that undocumented immigrants may face unique challenges when it comes to accident claims during this period.
Many have speculated that another bright side to the pandemic shut down is safer streets. The assumption is that with fewer cars on the road, there will be fewer accidents. Unfortunately, that isn’t necessarily the case — the risks have just changed.
In 2019, there were 284 traffic-related fatalities in Nevada, down slightly from the 330 fatalities recorded in 2018. The 2020 data pre-pandemic indicated that fatalities were on the rise. January and February alone saw 14-traffic related deaths in the Las Vegas Valley. The Las Vegas Metropolitan police department has now invested 54 traffic-related fatalities.
The following statistics were compiled by the Nevada Department of Public Safety’s Zero Fatalities Nevada initiative:
While fewer cars on the road means less people able to run red lights, text while driving, or drive under the influence, new risks have emerged.
With emptier streets, risky drivers are taking the opportunity to put the pedal to the metal. Across the United States, state highway officials have noted a significant spike in speeding vehicles, with numerous drivers reaching speeds in excess of 100 mph.
Las Vegas hasn’t escaped drivers seeking these increased speeds. In a three-hour period, Las Vegas police officers stopped six vehicles doing triple digit speeds. At least six fatal collisions occurred in between Las Vegas’ shutdown and the end of April, and four of the six were related to excessive speeds.
Extreme speeding is likely to result in increased vehicular deaths, even though there are fewer drivers on the road. While there may be less overall collisions, the ones that occur are likely to be more deadly. If you are struck by a vehicle going 100 mph or more, the damage and injury will be severe.
The impact of reckless driving has even wider reaching consequences during the pandemic. An increase in traffic-related injuries has the potential to place an undue burden on an increasingly overwhelmed hospital system.
If you were injured in a car accident, your first step should be to seek immediate medical attention. This could be done at the scene or visiting a hospital, though a visit to the hospital can be more complicated given COVID-19. No matter what, it is important to take care of your health. Additionally, failure to secure prompt medical attention may limit your ability to recover for injuries. The other party can argue you exacerbated through the delay.
Once you have seen to your own safety, keep the following tips in mind:
One of the most helpful things you can do after a car accident is contact an experienced attorney who can help you manage each of the steps above as well as advise on the strength of your case and prepare a comprehensive case strategy.
If you are a victim of a car accident or have lost a loved one in a Las Vegas car accident, it is important to work with an attorney experienced in securing recovery for accident victims. Our team is staffed with compassionate and skilled professionals with deep experience in car accident cases. We have secured millions of dollars in settlements for our clients.
We work with our clients to analyze and advise on all aspects of their case. We understand each case is unique and deserves individual, focused attention. You should not be forced to bear the financial burden of a car accident that was not your fault.
If you or a loved one was injured in a car accident in Las Vegas, NV or the surrounding area, contact us today for a free consultation.