“This past year has been incredibly difficult on me and my family, but I knew I survived for a reason,” Hal Goldblatt said. “I was compelled to share my story and become an advocate of pedestrian safety because I want to make sure no one else has to suffer like I have, or worse. I am so appreciative that Brian Knudsen and our local leaders and agencies have been by my side, guiding me and giving me the tools to help my fellow Las Vegans.” 

Goldblatt, 71, was walking home from synagogue the Friday night after Thanksgiving last year when he crossed the street in the crosswalk, as he had done every weekend for more than 30 years. A driver, who was allegedly not paying attention, hit him. He spent weeks in the hospital, underwent multiple surgeries, broke 13 bones, including both arms, legs and his spine, and had months of physical therapy. He is still recovering to this day, and the long-term effects of the accident will be with him the rest of his life.