A multi-vehicle collision at the intersection of North Eastern Avenue and East Stewart Avenue claimed the life of a 42-year-old man recently. The traffic fatality marks the 82nd in the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department’s (LVMPD) jurisdiction so far in 2025. Involving four vehicles, this crash highlights critical issues about intersection safety, traffic violations, and the legal rights of families affected by such tragedies.
When fatal accidents like this occur due to alleged negligence, in this case, running a red light at high speed, families have legal options under Nevada law. If you’ve lost a loved one or suffered injuries in a similar motor vehicle collision, consulting with a Nevada personal injury lawyer can help protect your rights and secure the compensation your family needs. To discuss your options in a free initial consultation, contact our car accident lawyers at George Bochanis Injury Law Offices, 702-388-2005.
What Happened in the Eastern & Stewart Fatal Collision?
According to LVMPD, a 32-year-old driver in a 2021 Toyota Camry was traveling eastbound on Stewart Avenue at excessive speed. The motorist failed to stop for a red light and collided with a Volkswagen Touareg making a legal left turn from Eastern Avenue onto Stewart Avenue.
The impact created a chain reaction that ultimately involved four vehicles. The force redirected both the Toyota and Volkswagen southeast, causing the Toyota to strike a stopped 2019 Nissan Rogue. As a result of the crash’s momentum, the Nissan rotated and hit a stopped Peterbilt semi-truck.
Emergency responders transported the Volkswagen driver to UMC Trauma with significant injuries. Despite life-saving medical efforts, he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead by medical staff. The Toyota driver sustained critical injuries, and was subsequently booked into the Clark County Detention Center on charges related to the collision. Occupants of the Nissan also required emergency medical treatment.
Nevada’s Alarming Traffic Fatality Statistics
The tragic accident at Eastern and Stewart avenues reflects a broader crisis on Nevada’s roads. 2024 was one of the deadliest years on roads across the state on record, with 412 deaths resulting from motor vehicle accidents. Even more concerning, Nevada traffic fatalities are up 45% in the last decade, giving the state the sixth-highest fatality rate in the U.S. Many of these traffic deaths are the result of intersection-related crashes, and red light violations continue to contribute to their occurrence.
The recent collision at Eastern and Stewart represents just one example of how intersection accidents can devastate families and communities. As such, it’s essential for those affected by such preventable tragedies to understand the legal implications.
Legal Consequences of Red Light Violations in Nevada
Running a red light in Nevada carries serious legal consequences, particularly when it results in injury or death. Under state law, traffic control device violations can result in both criminal charges and civil liability.
Criminal Penalties
When a red light violation results in substantial bodily harm or death, Nevada prosecutors may file felony charges. The charges depend on the driver’s intent, level of negligence, and whether substances were involved.
Civil Liability Under Nevada Law
Beyond criminal consequences, red light violators face civil liability under Nevada’s negligence laws. Families like those affected by the Eastern and Stewart crash may pursue wrongful death and personal liability claims against responsible drivers.
Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence system. As such, victims can recover damages, even if they bear some responsibility for an accident, provided their fault doesn’t exceed 50%.
The Investigation Process and Evidence Collection
Following fatal traffic accidents like the Eastern and Stewart collision, law enforcement conducts thorough investigations to determine liability and contributing factors. These investigations typically involve accident reconstruction specialists who analyze skid marks, vehicle damage patterns, traffic signal timing, and witness statements. Security camera footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras often provides crucial evidence regarding the sequence of events and driver behavior leading up to the crash.
For families pursuing legal action, preserving this evidence becomes critical. Insurance companies and opposing counsel may attempt to challenge liability or minimize damages, making comprehensive documentation essential. Working with experienced wrongful death attorneys ensures that all relevant evidence is properly collected, analyzed, and presented to support your family’s claim.
Rights of Families in Fatal Traffic Accidents
Families who lose loved ones in preventable traffic accidents possess important legal rights under Nevada law. Understanding these rights may help ensure families receive appropriate compensation while holding negligent drivers accountable.
Wrongful Death Claims
Nevada state law allows specific family members to pursue wrongful death claims when negligence causes a loved one’s death. Eligible plaintiffs include:
- Surviving spouse
- Children
- Parents, when there is no surviving spouse or children
- Estate representatives acting on behalf of beneficiaries
Through such legal action, family members may seek to recover compensation for damages including funeral and burial expenses, medical costs related to the deceased’s final injury, lost future earnings and benefits, loss of companionship and support, and pain and suffering.
The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Nevada is typically two years from the date of death. As such, prompt legal action is essential for protecting families’ rights.
Protecting Your Family’s Rights After a Tragic Loss
The fatal intersection collision at Eastern and Stewart avenues serves as a stark reminder that preventable traffic accidents continue to claim innocent lives across Nevada. While no legal action can bring back a beloved family member, pursuing justice through the civil court system helps hold negligent drivers accountable and provides crucial financial support during an incredibly difficult time.
Don’t let insurance companies minimize your loss or delay justice for your family. Contact George Bochanis Injury Law Offices today at 702-388-2005 for a free consultation. Located in Las Vegas, we serve families throughout Nevada and are ready to protect your rights during this difficult time. Your initial consultation costs nothing, and we don’t collect any fees unless we successfully recover compensation for your family.
