Monday, April 8, 1996 | 11:59 a.m.
The same day a woman was run over while jaywalking, Metro Police and the Nevada Office of Traffic Safety announced plans to clamp down on those who break pedestrian traffic laws.
Pamela Baker, 29, of Mandaree, N.D., whom police said was under the influence of alcohol, was killed at 1:58 a.m. Friday on Rancho Drive near Centennial Parkway when she walked in front of a car. She was thrown over the top of one car and into the path of another, which ran over her. Police said Baker was at fault and the drivers were not cited.
Beginning this week, police won't hesitate to cite drivers who fail to yield to pedestrians in crosswalks and pedestrians who ignore traffic laws, according to the Office of Traffic Safety.
Last year, 47 pedestrians were killed in Clark County and more than 600 were injured.
In Metro's jurisdiction, 33 pedestrians died, nearly doubling 1994's total of 18.
Since Jan. 1, 11 pedestrians have been killed in Clark County, including Friday's victim.
Judges also will play a role when it comes to deterring jaywalkers and errant motorists.
Last year, 1,678 pedestrian cases were heard in Las Vegas Municipal Court. As of March 11 of this year, 187 cases involving pedestrians had been heard.
"I, for one, take pedestrian violations seriously and will ensure that the punishment in my court serves as the deterrent it should to help increase public safety," Municipal Judge Gregory Barlow said.
The latest effort to promote pedestrian safety follows a state campaign featuring television and radio ads. With the education campaign well under way, officials are adopting a zero tolerance policy, officials said.
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