On October 26, 2023, at approximately 8:18 p.m., 18-year-old Brianna Roberson was fatally injured in a hit-and-run collision on Boulder Highway, north of Flamingo Road in Las Vegas. According to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), Roberson attempted to cross the highway outside of a marked crosswalk when a northbound vehicle, described by witnesses as a dark-colored sedan, struck her. The driver did not stop and fled the scene immediately.

Emergency responders transported Roberson to Sunrise Hospital. Tragically, she succumbed to her injuries on October 29, 2023. This incident marks the 125th traffic-related fatality in Las Vegas for the year 2023.

Legal obligations and penalties for hit-and-run in Nevada

In Nevada, drivers involved in accidents are legally required to stop at the scene, especially when injuries or fatalities occur. Fleeing the scene not only violates traffic laws but also breaches the duty of care that drivers owe to others on the road. Under Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 484E.010 and 484E.020, drivers must:

Stop their vehicle at the scene without obstructing traffic more than necessary.
Provide their name, address, and vehicle registration number to the other parties involved.
Show their driver’s license to any person involved in the accident and to law enforcement officers upon request.
Render reasonable assistance to any injured persons, including arranging for transportation to medical facilities if necessary.

Failing to fulfill these obligations can result in severe penalties. If the accident involves only property damage, leaving the scene is classified as a misdemeanor, punishable by up to six months in jail and/or a fine of up to $1,000. If the accident results in injury or death, fleeing the scene is considered a category B felony, carrying a potential prison sentence of 2 to 20 years and fines ranging from $2,000 to $5,000.

Legal recourse for Nevada victims of hit-and-run fatalities

When a driver’s negligence leads to a fatality, the surviving family members may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim. Such claims can seek compensation for various damages, including:

Medical expenses incurred prior to death.
Loss of financial support.
Loss of companionship.
Pain and suffering.
Funeral and burial costs.

However, pursuing a wrongful death claim in hit-and-run cases can be challenging, particularly if the responsible driver is not identified. Law enforcement agencies conduct thorough investigations to locate the at-fault driver, but success is not guaranteed. Additionally, if the deceased individual is found to have been partially at fault, such as by crossing outside of a designated crosswalk, the potential compensation may be reduced under Nevada’s comparative negligence laws.

Reducing hit-and-run car accidents and injuries in Nevada

The tragic death of Brianna Roberson underscores the critical importance of pedestrian safety and driver awareness in Las Vegas. Both drivers and pedestrians share responsibility for preventing such incidents.

For drivers…

Stay Alert: Always be vigilant for pedestrians, especially in areas without designated crosswalks.
Obey Speed Limits: Adhering to speed limits provides more reaction time to avoid potential accidents.
Avoid Distractions: Refrain from using mobile devices or engaging in activities that divert attention from the road.

For pedestrians…

Use Crosswalks: Always cross streets at designated crosswalks or intersections.
Stay Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially during low-light conditions.
Avoid Distractions: Stay alert and avoid using devices that can impair hearing or attention while crossing streets.

Community members are encouraged to participate in local traffic safety programs and stay informed about traffic laws. By fostering a culture of mutual respect and awareness, both drivers and pedestrians can contribute to safer roads in Las Vegas.

Get help after a fatal traffic accident in Las Vegas

If your family has lost a loved one in a hit-and-run accident, you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. Our top Las Vegas car accident attorneys have helped numerous families get justice and compensation after tragic traffic fatalities. We understand Nevada’s complex traffic laws and know how to build strong wrongful death cases.

Handle all communications with insurance companies
Work with investigators to identify the responsible driver
Document all damages to maximize your compensation
Fight for justice on your behalf while you focus on healing

Don’t wait – Nevada law limits the time you have to file a wrongful death claim. Call now or fill out our online form to speak with a compassionate attorney about your case.