Las Vegas Group Continues Fight for Safer School Crosswalks

School zone safety isn’t just about signs and flashing lights — it’s about accountability

The dangers facing pedestrians near Las Vegas schools have once again made headlines after a suspected DUI driver critically injured a 12-year-old boy. The crash reignited a community movement led by Walk Safely LV, a local nonprofit founded by Krista Holloway following the death of high school senior McKenzie Scott earlier this year. The organization has already helped secure a permanent crossing guard and a new flashing pedestrian beacon near Arbor View High School, where Scott was killed.

Even with these improvements, the fight for safer crosswalks in Las Vegas is far from over. Holloway and her group continue to advocate for visible signage, clearly painted crosswalks, and safety gear for volunteers working to protect students walking to and from school. Their work underscores an uncomfortable truth: despite increased awareness and new safety measures, school-zone pedestrian accidents continue to occur at an alarming rate.

Why school zone crashes persist in Las Vegas

School zones are meant to be among the safest areas on city roads, but recent incidents show they can be just as dangerous as high-traffic intersections. Several factors make these areas especially hazardous, particularly during early morning and afternoon hours when students are walking home.

Common causes of school zone pedestrian crashes include:

• Speeding and distracted driving: Many drivers fail to slow down or ignore flashing school zone lights altogether. A few seconds of inattention from a phone can lead to devastating results.
• Drunk or impaired driving: As seen in the recent DUI-related crash, impaired drivers often fail to recognize speed limits or crosswalks in time to prevent tragedy.
• Insufficient signage and visibility: Faded crosswalk paint, poor lighting, and a lack of warning signs make it difficult for drivers to spot children until it’s too late.
• Inconsistent crossing guard coverage: While Las Vegas has funded crossing guards at over a dozen middle schools and three high schools, not every crosswalk has protection. Some are still monitored by volunteers, leaving major gaps during busy hours.

These factors increase the risk for students, parents, and teachers who rely on safe passage across busy streets. When these safety measures fail, the legal question becomes one of responsibility: Who should be held accountable for the harm caused?

Understanding liability in Nevada pedestrian accidents

Under Nevada law, drivers are required to yield to pedestrians in marked and unmarked crosswalks and to exercise caution in areas where pedestrians are likely to be present, such as near schools or residential neighborhoods. When a driver fails to uphold this duty by speeding, texting, or driving under the influence, they can be held legally liable for the resulting injuries or deaths.

However, liability doesn’t always stop with the driver. In some cases, the city, county, or school district may share responsibility if they failed to maintain safe conditions. For example, unlit intersections, missing signage, or malfunctioning crosswalk beacons may expose municipalities to negligence claims. A skilled pedestrian accident attorney can investigate the full scope of fault by examining:

• Police reports and crash scene photos
• Traffic camera footage and eyewitness statements
• Maintenance and safety inspection records for the area
• Driver toxicology and cellphone data

Determining fault is rarely simple, especially when multiple parties share responsibility. That’s why having an attorney who understands how Nevada law applies to pedestrian crashes is crucial for families seeking justice after a school zone accident.

Why advocacy and legal action go hand in hand

Groups like Walk Safely LV have shown that grassroots advocacy can create real change. Their efforts helped bring crossing guards and flashing beacons to Las Vegas schools that previously lacked protection. Yet, community action alone cannot fully prevent tragedy. When negligence causes serious harm, legal action is often the only way to hold individuals and institutions accountable and to push for lasting improvements.

Beyond obtaining compensation for medical care, lost income, and emotional distress, successful claims can compel cities and school districts to strengthen safety policies. Legal accountability often drives the upgrades that advocacy alone cannot achieve.

Protecting victims and families after a serious crash

A pedestrian crash involving a child is among the most devastating events a family can experience. Recovery is long, expensive, and emotionally draining. Victims and their families may face weeks or months of hospitalization, therapy, and missed work.

In Nevada, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is limited, meaning victims have only a set period to file. Acting quickly ensures that evidence is preserved and that families maintain the right to pursue full compensation for their losses.

When negligence leads to a serious or fatal pedestrian accident, victims deserve experienced representation and the chance to seek justice. Lasso Injury Law LLC has extensive experience handling complex injury claims in Las Vegas, holding negligent drivers and institutions accountable for the harm they cause.

When the stakes are high, attorney Al Lasso delivers. If a school zone or pedestrian accident has changed your family’s life, schedule a free consultation now. Legal deadlines apply, and acting quickly can make all the difference in protecting your rights and your recovery. Contact us today.

"Al was truly amazing when it came to taking on my case after my son and I were in an accident. He never failed to communicate with me, making sure I knew what was going on throughout the whole process. He is very kind and understanding, and I will 1,000% always recommend him for anyone in need!" - Raven R., ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐