Navigating the Silver State’s highways and byways can be a rewarding experience, especially when you know Nevada driving laws. But are you aware that trick driving is considered a reckless driving violation in Nevada? Or that you need to give at least three feet of space when passing bicyclists? With Nevada driving laws changing yearly, staying informed is crucial for your safety and others on the road.
Reckless driving is more than just a traffic violation—it’s a serious infraction that can have severe consequences. In Nevada, tricks performed while driving, like wheelies and drifting, are considered reckless driving violations. These antics may seem fun and exciting, but they can lead to catastrophic outcomes, including fines, jail time, and vehicle impoundment.
Remember, any thrill gained from showing off your driving skills is not worth the potential risks.
Nevada’s traffic laws define trick driving as slowing or diverting traffic to perform or film stunts on a public highway. A seemingly harmless act of thrill-seeking can quickly spiral into a serious offense, attracting the following penalties:
The rule of thumb is simple: maintain reasonable and proper speeds and leave the stunts to the professionals.
The penalties for reckless driving in Nevada are severe and intended to deter drivers from engaging in such dangerous behavior. Misdemeanor charges, a maximum of six months of imprisonment, and even a driver’s license suspension are just some of the repercussions you could face. These are more than just inconveniences—they are life-changing consequences that can impact your freedom, employability, and personal life.
It’s not worth risking your safety, the safety of those you’re sharing the road with, and your future to drive recklessly in Nevada. Be smart and drive safely.
We’ve all been there: you’re cruising down the highway, and suddenly, you see flashing lights in your rear-view mirror. It’s an emergency vehicle, and it’s time to move over. In Nevada, drivers must slow down and change lanes when approaching emergency vehicles, including tow trucks. And the stakes are high—if you don’t adhere to these move-over rules, you could face a fine of up to $395 and four demerit points on your license.
It’s our responsibility to provide enough space for these lifesavers to perform their duties.
In Nevada, the Move-Over law is not just a guideline—it’s a mandate. Drivers must move over for emergency vehicles, other vehicles, or pedestrians stopped on the side of the road. Not following this law can result in a misdemeanor, a fine of up to $395, and potentially four demerit points.
And remember, emergency vehicles aren’t just police cars and ambulances. Any vehicle equipped with flashing lights, including tow trucks, is considered an emergency vehicle under Nevada’s Move-Over law. You must always give them the respect and space they deserve to do their job effectively.
Did you know that tow trucks are now included in Nevada’s move-over rules? When you spot a tow truck with flashing lights on the side of the road, you need to decrease your speed and move over if it’s safe. And just like other emergency vehicles, tow trucks are authorized to exhibit non-flashing blue lights, thanks to Assembly Bill 2.
But remember, failing to comply with these rules could result in fines of up to $395. Keeping our roads safe for everyone, especially our diligent tow truck operators, is important for everyone’s safety and your bank account.
Safety should always be a priority when on the road, especially for those on two or three wheels. The law requires mopeds and trimobiles to have protective helmets and eye gear in Nevada. Not adhering to the proper protective equipment is now classified as a misdemeanor violation. Wearing a helmet not only guards your head but also ensures legal compliance.
Speeding may get you to your destination faster, but it also increases the risk of accidents and comes with hefty penalties. In Nevada, speeding and moving violations are subject to fines and penalties. But there’s good news for drivers with no history of speeding: Assembly Bill 434 Section 28 allows them to pay $20 per mile over the limit and reclassify the violation as non-moving if paid before the due date.
While speed limits in Nevada vary depending on the location and type of vehicle, the fundamental principle remains the same: drive at a sensible and appropriate speed. Whether on a controlled-access highway or a residential street, maintaining safe and legal speeds is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road.
If you’ve been cited for speeding but have a clean driving record, Assembly Bill 434 Section 28 is your saving grace. This bill relieves drivers with no history of speeding violations, allowing them to pay $20 per mile over the limit and reclassify the offense as non-moving if paid before the due date.
While there is a way to avoid serious penalties if you’ve been caught speeding once, sticking to the posted speed limit is always the best approach.
Seat belts save lives—it’s a simple fact that we’ve all heard time and again. In Nevada, the law takes this very seriously. All passengers, including those in the back seat and in taxis, are required to utilize safety belts. And it’s not just about adults.
Nevada law also has strict regulations for child safety seats.
Regarding the safety of our little ones, Nevada leaves no stone unturned. Children aged 6 years or younger and measuring 57 inches or less must be restrained in an appropriate car seat, also known as an approved child restraint system.
Whether heading to the grocery store or embarking on a long road trip, ensure you and all your passengers are safely secured before setting off.
The click of a seat belt should be the first sound you hear before starting your journey. In Nevada, any person occupying a front seat must always be restrained by a safety belt. And the consequences for not buckling up are steep—you could face a $25 fine or mandatory community service.
Remember, buckling up takes a moment, but its impact can be life-saving. So, always wear safety belts.
In this digital age, our phones are always within reach. But that text or call can wait when you’re behind the wheel. In Nevada, using a wireless handheld device while driving is prohibited, including texting, talking on the phone, and accessing the internet. But you’re not entirely cut off—you can still use your device in hands-free mode.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or prohibited substances is a dangerous and illegal act that can have devastating consequences. In Nevada, different limits apply for commercial drivers and drivers under 21, but the bottom line is clear: if you’re under the influence, don’t get behind the wheel.
Alcohol limits in Nevada are not one-size-fits-all—they vary depending on the driver’s age and type of vehicle. For drivers over 21, the legal blood alcohol concentration is 0.08. But for drivers under 21, the limit drops to just 0.02%. Commercial drivers are also held to a higher standard, with a limit of 0.04 percent.
Knowing and adhering to your limit before getting behind the wheel is crucial.
While alcohol is the most commonly known substance that can impair driving, it’s not the only one. In Nevada, the list of prohibited substances includes:
Driving under the influence of these substances can severely impair your ability to operate a motor vehicle safely and can result in serious penalties. If you find yourself facing such charges, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced attorney.
Becoming a licensed driver is a milestone in a teenager’s life. But earning that driver’s license in Nevada isn’t as simple as passing a driving test. There are additional restrictions for teen drivers as part of the state’s Graduated Licensing Program, aimed at helping young drivers gain experience and skills on the road in a progressive manner.
Navigating the roads is about more than just driving straight ahead. Sometimes, you need to make a U-turn or turn right on red. In Nevada, U-turns are allowed if they can be done safely, and right turns are permitted at red lights unless posted otherwise.
While driving, pay close attention to traffic signs and signals. They convey key information to keep you safe and out of trouble.
Let’s face it. We’re all in a hurry all of the time. But that’s no reason to leave a small child or pet unattended in a vehicle. In fact, it’s not just a bad idea in Nevada—leaving children under seven or pets unattended in vehicles under certain conditions is illegal.
Regardless of whether you’re running a quick errand or briefly stepping out of the car, always prioritize safety.
Remember those days of chasing after the school bus? Well, in Nevada, drivers need to stop for school buses. When a school bus has it’s flashing red lights activated, drivers must stop and remain stopped until the lights are turned off and the bus starts moving. But there’s an exception: you don’t have to stop if you’re on a divided highway and the bus is on the opposite side of the road.
Always watch those big yellow buses as they transport valuable passengers.
Bicyclists have as much right to be on the road as cars do. In Nevada, drivers must give at least 3 feet of space when passing bicyclists and not interfere with their movement.
Whenever you encounter a bicyclist on the road, ensuring they have ample space is not just polite but also a legal requirement.
Every driver has their favorite—and least favorite—roads to drive on. In Las Vegas, Nevada, some roadways and intersections are known for being particularly challenging, such as Sahara Ave and South Decatur Blvd, Rainbow Blvd and Charleston Blvd, and Boulder Highway and Nellis. You want to always focus on driving safely, but being especially cautious in these areas is a good idea.
Navigating Nevada’s roads involves more than knowing how to turn the steering wheel. From understanding reckless driving laws to knowing when to stop for school buses, staying informed about Nevada’s traffic laws can make your journey safer and more enjoyable. So, whether you’re a seasoned driver or just getting started, remember that the road to safety is paved with knowledge.
What is the new law in Nevada for driving?
As of January 1, 2023, Nevada has passed a law decriminalizing certain minor traffic offenses like speeding, cell phone use, and broken tail lights, while more serious offenses remain criminal. Those unable to pay their traffic fines will no longer be subject to jail time.
In Nevada, a 16-year-old driver may drive alone but may not transport passengers under 18 (other than family members) for the first six months. Additionally, they are not permitted to drive between 10:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m., except for work or school events.
Yes, Nevada does have a left-lane law. It is illegal for a motorist to travel in the extreme left lane if they are driving below the speed limit and are being approached from behind by a faster vehicle.
Transferring your driver’s license to Nevada requires you to present proof of identity, a Social Security Number, and two proofs of residency documentation. You must make the transfer in person within 30 days of becoming a Nevada resident and may need to take a vision or knowledge test, depending on your age.
In Nevada, any trick performed while driving, such as spinning tires, driving over speeds of 75mph, and drag racing, is considered a reckless driving violation according to the state’s traffic laws.
