Roundabout Accidents in Las Vegas

What Is a Roundabout and Why Are They Used?

Roundabouts are circular intersections designed to keep traffic moving in a counterclockwise direction without traffic lights or stop signs. They are becoming increasingly popular in Nevada, especially in Las Vegas, to address busy streets and reduce the risk of car crashes. Instead of 32 potential crash points, like at signaled intersections, roundabouts have only eight. 

Traffic in the roundabout has the right-of-way, and traffic entering must yield before entering. The circular lane design can be single- or multi-lane. When exiting the roundabout, drivers must be in the right-hand, outer lane. Each “exit” is like an off-ramp, so there is no need to stop. Roundabouts also usually feature pedestrian crosswalks before the yield line.

Las Vegas Roundabout Accident Statistics and Trends

Specific crash statistics for roundabouts in Las Vegas are not currently tracked. In Clark County in 2023, there were 3,390 injury crashes and 1,236 fatal crashes. According to the Metro Traffic Bureau, the top three causes of crashes are impaired driving, speeding, and failing to yield the right-of-way. In 2024, there were 13 traffic fatalities for failure to yield the right-of-way, and as of July 21, 2025, there were 29 fatalities, up 123.1%. 

Studies on roundabouts have found the following:

• Up to a 90% reduction in fatal crashes
• 30 to 40% reduction in pedestrian crashes
• 76% reduction in injury crashes

However, crashes still occur, and common types of collisions include:

• Rear-end crashes
• Sideswipes 
• Pedestrian accidents
• Bicycle accidents

Typical contributing factors for roundabout accidents are:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Reckless driving
• Driver confusion/unfamiliarity with roundabouts

Common Causes of Roundabout Accidents in Las Vegas

• Failure to yield the right-of-way: Drivers entering the roundabout must yield to oncoming traffic, as drivers in the roundabout have the right-of-way. 
• Distracted driving: Not paying attention in a roundabout usually leads to rear-end crashes.
• Misjudging gaps and traffic speed: Some roundabout accidents occur when an entering vehicle misjudges the distance and speed of oncoming traffic. 
• Unsafe lane changes/not staying in your lane: Some drivers lose control when they drive too fast, stray out of their lane, or misjudge the distance between vehicles when changing lanes, impacting other vehicles.  
• Unfamiliarity with roundabout “rules”: Some accidents occur when drivers are not familiar with roundabout traffic rules, who has the right-of-way, and traffic flow. 
• Speeding: The circular nature of roundabouts is designed that way to make drivers slow down. However, some drivers attempt to speed in roundabouts and lose control, crashing into other cars. 
• Driving under the influence: Depending on the type of substance, some drivers may become confused, keep circling, or attempt to exit while cutting off other vehicles. 

Types of Roundabout Accidents and Resulting Injuries

The types of roundabout accidents include:

• Rear-end crashes: Distracted driving and not paying attention when drivers brake.
• Sideswipes: Drivers not remaining in their lane in multi-lane roundabouts.
• Pedestrian accidents: Drivers not paying attention when pedestrians enter crosswalks.
• Bicycle accidents: Drivers not sharing the road with cyclists or allowing sufficient passing room.

However, the frequency of roundabout crashes is less than that of traditional intersection accidents. Additionally, the extent of injuries is usually not as severe as traditional intersection accidents, but could still include:

• Head injuries
• Whiplash
• Soft tissue injuries
• Lacerations and bruising
• Fractured and broken bones
• Sprains and strains
• Spinal injuries

Roundabout Driving Guidelines and Safety Tips for Las Vegas Motorists

Learning to drive in roundabouts is not difficult if you follow these simple steps:

• As you approach a roundabout, slow down and prepare to yield to pedestrians using the crosswalk and oncoming traffic.
• Do not enter the roundabout if an emergency vehicle is approaching from any direction and wait for them to exit the roundabout. 
• Ensure there is sufficient space between you and oncoming traffic before entering.
• As you enter, choose the proper lane. Use the right lane if you are turning right or going straight, and the left lane if you are turning left or doing a U-turn. 
• Use your turn signals to indicate when you are exiting a roundabout or when changing lanes.
• Always exit the roundabout from the outer, right-hand lane.
• Never stop for vehicles waiting to enter the roundabout, as you have the right-of-way.
• Never attempt to overtake and pass other vehicles or bicyclists in a roundabout. 
• Never drive next to semi-trucks or large vehicles in multi-lane roundabouts.
• Always follow the posted speed limit.

What To Do if You Are Involved in a Roundabout Accident in Las Vegas

• Check yourself and anyone involved in the crash for injuries.
• Call 911 to report the accident and request emergency medical care.
• Seek medical treatment as soon as possible for delayed injuries.
• Take pictures and videos of the accident scene and damages before moving the vehicles.
• If the vehicles are still drivable, move them to a safe location on the side of the road.
• Exchange information with the other driver.
• Obtain contact details for any witnesses.
• Obtain the police report number from the responding officer.
• Never admit or mention fault at any time.
• Do not post about the accident on social media.
• Before speaking to the insurance company, schedule a free consultation with a Las Vegas car accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Proving Fault in Roundabout Accidents and Legal Claims

Proving fault is essential to be able to make a legal claim against the other driver, and requires gathering sufficient evidence, such as:

• Pictures
• Videos 
• Witness statements
• Police report
• Medical records
• Expert testimony from accident reconstructions when fault is disputed

Even if you are at fault, Nevada’s modified comparative negligence rules allow you to file a claim, as long as you are 50% or less at fault.  

Other ways that can help prove the other driver was negligent include:

• They failed to yield the right-of-way.
• They attempted to overtake and pass you.
• They did not share the road with a bicyclist.
• They were speeding.
• They were using the incorrect lane.
• They were distracted and not paying attention.

How Adam S. Kutner, Injury Attorneys, Help Las Vegas Roundabout Accident Victims

• Almost four decades helping injury victims secure the compensation they deserve.
• Gathers the evidence needed to support your claim.
• Aggressive representation to secure maximum compensation from insurance companies.
• Aware of all tactics insurance companies and adjusters use.
• Dedicated lawyer and legal team assigned to your case.
• Clear, open communication throughout your case.
• Compassionate, client-centric, personalized care and support.
• Expertise in navigating complex cases and multi-party liability claims.
• Free consultation and contingency fee agreements — you don’t pay unless we win.
• Best of Las Vegas Gold winner for Best Law Firm, Best Customer Service, and Best Accident Lawyer.

If you were injured in a roundabout accident in Las Vegas, find out your legal rights and options by scheduling your free consultation today.

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