Increasing Deadly Motorcycle Crashes in Las Vegas: Examining the Importance of Legal Guidance
Las Vegas, a city known for its vibrant nightlife and bustling streets, has seen an unfortunate increase in motorcycle accidents. According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety, there were 22 fatalities in motorcycle accidents within the city limits in 2021, a figure that has been on the rise in recent years.
The city's busy intersections and specific roads with challenging conditions or heavy traffic are common locations for these accidents. Notably, the Scenic Loop Drive near Icebox Canyon Trailhead in Red Rock Canyon has been the site of fatal motorcycle crashes, often involving riders traveling at excessive speeds failing to negotiate curves. Busy intersections like Rainbow Blvd and Tropicana Ave, N Nellis Blvd and E Bonanza Rd, and W Desert Inn Rd and S Hualapai Way frequently experience motorcycle accidents due to congestion, speeding, driver inattention, and traffic signal violations.
Factors contributing to these accidents include unsafe lane changes, left-turn crashes at intersections, drivers opening doors, distracted driving, poor road maintenance, and impaired driving. Approximately 70% of motorcycle accidents occur at intersections, underscoring the need for heightened awareness and caution.
Motorcyclists are 29 times more likely to die in a crash compared to drivers and passengers of other vehicle types, making it essential for riders to take every precaution possible. Wearing protective gear, such as a helmet, gloves, protective clothing, and appropriate footwear, is a must. Riding sober, staying alert, and being visible are also crucial. Using reflective clothing and keeping your headlights on while riding can help make you more visible to other road users.
Defensive riding, assuming other drivers may not see you and preparing for unexpected movements, is also key. New riders may benefit from taking a motorcycle safety course. If involved in a motorcycle accident, ensuring safety, checking for injuries, calling 911, exchanging information, gathering evidence, getting witness contact information, consulting a lawyer specializing in motorcycle accidents, following up on medical care, and continuing any recommended treatment are all important steps to take.
The higher risk of fatal crashes for motorcyclists is reflected in the statistics. In 2021, the U.S. witnessed the highest number of motorcyclist fatalities since data collection began in 1975, with 5,014 riders dying in crashes. Clark County, where Las Vegas is located, experienced a 24% increase in motorcycle deaths compared to the previous year, with 35 motorcycle-related fatalities in 2022.
In light of these statistics, it's clear that maintaining your motorcycle, avoiding blind spots, and following traffic rules are more important than ever. Stay safe on the roads of Las Vegas.
References:
- Las Vegas Review-Journal
- KTNV
- Las Vegas Sun
In Las Vegas, known for its vibrant nightlife and casinos, busy intersections like Rainbow Blvd and Tropicana Ave, N Nellis Blvd and E Bonanza Rd, and W Desert Inn Rd and S Hualapai Way, common locations for motorcycle accidents, can be particularly risky. Notably, the Scenic Loop Drive near Icebox Canyon Trailhead in Red Rock Canyon, a popular location for gambling and sightseeing, has seen its share of fatal motorcycle crashes.
