Fatalities as a result of car accidents due to speeding have increased in Nevada recently. Indeed, multiple deaths occurred recently in North Las Vegas as a result of a speeding driver who caused a car crash. According to research, speeding was the number one cause of death in 2021 in Nevada.
Nevada Speeding Laws
When discussing speeding, it is important to understand what is considered speeding under Nevada law. Under Nevada Revised Statute 484B.600, it is against state law for someone to drive or operate a vehicle at a rate of speed that:
- is not reasonable or proper, taking into consideration traffic, weather conditions, the surface and width of the road, and other highway factors;
- would endanger the life, limb, or property of another;
- causes the injury of another or to property;
- is greater than 80 miles per hour.
There are also situations where a driver may have to slow down, according to NRS 484B.603(1), including when:
- Approaching and crossing an intersection;
- Approaching and going around a curve;
- Approaching a hillcrest;
- Traveling on a narrow or winding highway; or
- When special hazards exist regarding pedestrians, traffic, weather, or other highway conditions requiring a slower speed to avoid a crash.
Additionally, when there is a traffic incident Nevada drivers are required to slow down under NRS 484B.607(1). Specifically, when approaching a traffic incident, unless given other direction by authorities, a driver must:
- Decrease to a reasonable and proper speed;
- Continue with caution;
- Be prepared to come to a stop; and
- Not drive in a lane adjacent to the lane(s) where the traffic incident is, unless it is unsafe or impossible to do so because of weather, traffic, roadway, or other conditions.
Finally, uFatalities as a result of car accidents due to speeding have increased in Nevada recently. nder NRS 484B.363, Nevada drivers should take extra caution in school zones where the speed limit is 15 to 20 MPH. These limits are in place on school days before and after school starts and ends, usually 30 minutes to an hour before.
Consequences of Speeding
Speeding is not just against the law, it is a dangerous driving habit. In fact, speeding accounts for almost one-third of all traffic deaths in Nevada. Speeding can cause a driver to lose control of the vehicle, reduce the effectiveness of seatbelts and/or car seats, increase the severity of the crash impact, and increase the required stopping distance to avoid a collision. Avoiding speeding is critical to keeping yourself and your loved ones safe on Nevada’s roads. Avoid the temptation to speed by not getting behind the wheel when stressed, giving yourself plenty of time to get to your destination, always driving sober, using cruise control when appropriate including on long trips, and following posted speed limits.
Getting Legal Help in Nevada
Unfortunately, speeding is more common than not in Nevada. The attorneys at H&P Law have been helping accident victims in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada for years to fight for the monetary compensation deserved for injuries suffered. Contact H&P Law today to discuss your case with one of our lawyers.
