Car crashes are up significantly, according to the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, which just released statistics for the first five months of 2022.
The numbers could keep climbing during what’s called the “100 deadliest days” from Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Metro said there’s been an 8% increase in crashes this year compared to last year, as it responded to over 8,000 collisions calls so far this year, which averages to about 56 per day in 2022.
There are more distracted drivers and more drivers speeding. But the biggest reason is drivers are simply ignoring the basic rules of the road, like properly making left turns.
Lt. Daryl Rhodes said drivers are making left turns, crossing several lanes and speeding through them.
"A lot of people have this idea, 'Well, I can get from point A to point B by speeding,' because they’ve done so far without a collision. But it’s going to happen sooner or later if you don’t change the way you drive," he said.
And the same goes for pedestrians.
"To pedestrians, a huge warning. You’re going to lose that battle every single time. It’s your responsibility to follow the rules and make sure when you’re crossing the street, the oncoming cars can see you," he said.
Rhodes said the most important safety measure you can take is to be patient.
