Thursday, March 7, 2024 | 5:11 p.m.
The increase in traffic-related fatalities is slowing but still significantly higher than in 2023, including a sharp increase in pedestrian and motorcyclist deaths, according to a preliminary report from the Nevada Department of Public Safety.
Nineteen people were killed in Nevada traffic incidents in February, bringing the total for 2024 to 58, according to the report. The 19 killed in February 2024 is two more deaths than February last year and a less than half the number of deaths in January. Despite this, the total for the year is still an almost 32% increase from the same time in 2023.
Over 70% of fatalities occurred in Clark County, most of which were pedestrian fatalities. Five pedestrians were killed in Clark County in February, a sharp decline from the 18 killed in January but over double the number killed in February 2023. Three of the pedestrian deaths occurred outside of Clark County.
Traffic deaths involving motorcycles have also drastically increased, with a 150% increase year-to-date compared to 2023, according to the report.
Efforts are being made across the state to reduce fatalities on the road by several organizations. The Nevada State Police are starting the Joining Forces Speed Awareness Campaign, which will take place from March 13-29. The State Police will partner with other law enforcement agencies to bring awareness to how speeding increases the likelihood of traffic accidents and fatalities.
The Clark County Commission recently expanded the number of crossing guards at Clark County School District schools to include 23 middle schools, citing the increase in traffic deaths as a key deciding factor. Before the expansion, crossing guards were only stationed at CCSD elementary schools. Over 80 CCSD students have been struck by vehicles since the start of the school year.
Metro Police Sheriff Kevin McMahill has outlined reducing traffic deaths in Clark County as a top priority for the department in an annual address in February, emphasizing he recognizes the problem is especially affecting Las Vegas.
“I’m sick and tired of the fact that the driving behaviors of people here in Southern Nevada are as bad as they are,” McMahill said during the address. “You’re not running red lights and you’re damn sure not speeding on the way between Carson and Reno, because there’s cops everywhere.”
McMahill has endorsed the use of red-light and speed cameras on multiple occasions to help curb the rising traffic fatalities in the city. The implementation would require a change to Nevada law, which currently bans their use without an officer present.
