LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — The Nye County Sheriff’s Office has distributed more than 500 reflective vests and blinking clip-on LED lights to pedestrians and bicyclists in an effort to reduce traffic injuries and deaths on dark, rural roadways.
Sheriff Joe McGill said three people have been struck by vehicles in Nye County this month alone, including two in a single day. He said the initiative is aimed at preventing further injuries and fatalities.
“It is literally a matter of life and death at times,” McGill said. “We don’t have streetlights in Pahrump. Very, very few and only at major intersections.”
Giveaway held at Pahrump Walmart
Three giveaways have been held so far. Earlier this week, McGill and his team distributed 180 vests at the Pahrump Walmart. The vests are funded through the state’s Joining Forces Program and a grant for vulnerable roadway users. Child-sized vests were also included in the giveaways.
McGill said the idea originated with his wife following a deadly pedestrian accident.
“A lot of times I’ll be driving home or going to a call at night, and there will be somebody walking down the bike lane because we don’t have sidewalks out here,” McGill said. “They’ll be walking in the bike lane, and you don’t see them until you’re right on top of them.”
More vests available now
The sheriff’s office has received a new shipment of vests and is planning another giveaway. Residents can pick up a vest at the sheriff’s office in Pahrump. Deputies are also distributing vests while on patrol when they encounter pedestrians who are difficult to see.
McGill said most accidents are preventable and that wearing a safety vest could save lives.
“I did see someone just the other night walking, and they were wearing a vest, and I just thought, ‘Good on you,’” McGill said. “You’re doing what you need to do to protect yourself and make yourself more visible.”
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