As we have entered 2020, there may be motorists driving across the state of Nevada who are unaware of new traffic laws recently enacted by the state legislature. These regulations went into effect on October 1, 2019, and drivers in Las Vegas and the rest of Nevada should know about them in order to stay safe and citation free. Below are several of the new road regulations that kicked in last year, according to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (NDMV).
New Helmet Laws
Nevada’s helmet law was expanded to mandate that moped riders wear helmets when riding on state roads. The new traffic law is also applicable to trimobiles that have handlebars and a saddle seat. The legislation does apply to, however, three-wheeled vehicles that have an enclosed cab.
Reckless Driving
Nevada’s new reckless driving law permits the prosecution of vehicular manslaughter and reckless driving offenses in areas of public access such as parking garages, parking lots, as well as roads in gated communities and apartment complexes. Before the changes, most traffic laws applied only if and when the vehicle was on a public street, except for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol offenses.
Speeding
Nevada has now capped the maximum monetary penalty for speeding at $20 per mile per hour above the proper rate of speed or posted speed limit. That being said, a Nevada judge may reduce the speeding citation to a non-moving violation if an offender pays all fines and fees prior to his or her first court date. Additionally, Nevada law makes it illegal to speed when the result is property damage or injury to another person.
Move-Over Law
Nevada motorists approaching a traffic accident must slow down to less than the posted speed limit, move to a non-adjacent traffic lane, and be prepared to come to a full stop. The same actions must be taken when a motorist is approaching a non-emergency vehicle with flashing lights. Under Nevada law, service vehicles and tow trucks under contract with the Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) are allowed to display non-flashing blue lights.
Trick Driving
Using Nevada’s public roads for stunt driving or the filming of stunt driving is now considered reckless driving, making the offense a gross misdemeanor. Individuals who participate in or organize this type of “trick driving” can face the following penalties: a monetary fine of up to $1,000.00; suspension of driver’s license for six months to two years; and impoundment for up to 30 days of the vehicle used for the trick driving.
Electric Charging Station Parking
With the rise of electric vehicles on America’s roads, there has also been an increase in electric vehicle charging stations across the state of Nevada. State law makes it illegal to park an electric vehicle at a charging station unless the vehicle is being charged. The charging station must be appropriately marked, including having a sign that states the minimum monetary fine of $100 for using the station without charging the vehicle.
The above laws are just some of the new legislation passed by Nevada lawmakers that can affect drivers in the state.
Contact Our Lawyers
If you have questions about these newly implemented laws or any other of Nevada’s laws, be sure to do your research to stay informed. If you have been hurt in a Las Vegas accident, contact the Matt Pfau Law Group today. We can explain your rights and obligations under Nevada law and fight for the monetary compensation you deserve.
