Almost everyone has crossed the street outside of a crosswalk at some point, but in Las Vegas, doing so is considered illegal. Nevada law requires pedestrians to cross streets in marked crosswalks and follow any traffic signals. Jaywalking, or crossing in areas that aren’t designated for pedestrians, can lead to fines and may affect your rights if an accident occurs. Understanding the rules, potential penalties, and what happens if an injury occurs can help you stay safe and protect your rights.
Penalties for Jaywalking in Las Vegas
In Nevada, jaywalking is treated as a misdemeanor. Fines vary depending on the city and the circumstances. In Las Vegas, a typical citation can cost around $160. First-time offenders may receive a warning, but repeated violations can result in higher fines, community service, or a required court appearance. Unlike traffic violations for drivers, jaywalking does not result in demerit points or a suspended license.
While jaywalking is a minor offense, it can sometimes play a role in larger legal matters. For example, if someone is facing more serious charges, a jaywalking offense might be used as part of a plea bargain. Even though the fines are relatively low, being aware of the law is important, especially in busy areas like the Strip or downtown Las Vegas where pedestrian and vehicle traffic is high.
What Counts as Jaywalking in Nevada
Nevada law clearly defines what constitutes jaywalking. Pedestrians must use marked crosswalks when available and obey traffic control devices such as pedestrian lights or signals. Crossing outside a designated crosswalk or ignoring a traffic signal is considered jaywalking.
Examples include:
- Crossing a busy street mid-block instead of using the crosswalk.
- Crossing against a “Do Not Walk” signal.
- Walking diagonally across an intersection rather than following the curb lines.
Following these rules is not only required by law but also reduces your risk of serious injury.
Defenses to a Jaywalking Ticket
While many people simply pay jaywalking fines, there are defenses that can be explored if you wish to contest a ticket. Some possible defenses include:
- Mistaken citation: The officer may have misidentified the person or thought they were outside the crosswalk when they were not.
- Emergency situation: If you crossed the street to avoid harm, such as a car swerving toward you or a falling object, this can be used as a defense.
- Poorly marked crosswalks: If the crosswalk was faded, blocked, or missing, you may argue you did not knowingly break the law.
Defending a jaywalking ticket successfully often depends on evidence, witness testimony, and how clearly the pedestrian followed the law at the time.
Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
If a pedestrian is jaywalking and gets injured, the situation becomes more complex. Nevada follows comparative negligence rules, which means that your share of fault affects how much compensation you can recover.
Under comparative negligence:
- If you are partially at fault, your damages are reduced proportionally.
- In modified comparative negligence states, if you are found 50 percent or more at fault, you may not recover any damages.
Liability in pedestrian accidents can extend to multiple parties:
- Pedestrian: If you jaywalked, you may be partially or fully responsible.
- Driver: Drivers must exercise due care, and failing to do so can result in partial liability.
- Government or property owners: Poorly maintained crosswalks or unclear signage may make a municipality or property owner partly responsible.
Understanding fault and liability is critical if an accident occurs while jaywalking. Legal representation can help ensure that evidence is presented clearly and that your rights are protected.
Do Pedestrians Have the Right of Way?
Pedestrians generally have the right of way at marked crosswalks, unmarked crosswalks, pedestrian safety zones, overhead crossings, and pedestrian tunnels. However, if a pedestrian is jaywalking, they lose that right. Crossing illegally puts the pedestrian at greater risk, and if an accident occurs, compensation may be limited because the pedestrian was engaging in unlawful behavior.
Legal Guidance for Pedestrians
If you are injured while jaywalking or involved in a pedestrian accident, it is important to speak with an experienced Las Vegas personal injury lawyer. A skilled attorney can help you:
- Determine who is at fault and assess comparative negligence.
- Gather evidence, including witness statements, traffic camera footage, and medical records.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and potentially recover compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Even if you were jaywalking, legal representation can make a difference in ensuring that any compensation is fairly evaluated.
Consult With Blake Friedman
Jaywalking in Las Vegas is illegal under Nevada law, and crossing outside marked crosswalks can lead to fines, penalties, and complicated liability issues if an accident occurs. Pedestrians should always follow traffic signals and use crosswalks to reduce the risk of injury. If you are injured in an accident, working with a highly-rated personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you may be entitled to.
Call (702) 970-4222 today to speak with a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer who can guide you through the claims process and help you recover damages.
