Las Vegas, CA (November 13, 2024) Grief spread through Las Vegas as news spread of a hit-and-run accident that claimed two children’s lives. 6-year-old Taliyah Lewis and 11-year-old Dante Lewis were both killed in the devastating accident. The driver, 32-year-old Nikki Serrat, fled the scene following the collision, according to reports. The accident occurred at East Flamingo Road and South Pecos-McLeod Interconnect on Friday, November 8th, 2024.
It was just after 5:00 p.m. when a Lexus GS350 sped along Flamingo Road, heading west, and ran a red light. The vehicle slammed into a Mitsubishi Outlander at the intersection. The impact sent the Mitsubishi crashing into two other cars. Two children inside the Mitsubishi sustained life-threatening injuries and were rushed to a hospital in the area. The medical staff did everything they could to save them, but both children passed away. Unfortunately, 11-year-old Dante and 6-year-old Taliyah were pronounced dead at the hospital.
Officers used surveillance video to identify the driver of the Lexus. 32-year-old Nikki Serrat was located and placed under arrest, according to police reports.
Liability In Las Vegas Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the scene should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Las Vegas Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Dante Lewis and Taliyah Lewis. We realize this is a difficult time as you mourn this sudden and unexpected loss.
Have you or a loved one been injured in this accident? Our team specializes in car accidents and we are here to help! You can reach us 24/7 at (866) 945-4286 or visit our online contact form at Accident News Now.