Is Lane Splitting Legal in Nevada?
What is lane splitting? This dangerous action refers to using two lanes to drive a motorcycle, also known as “splitting” the original lanes of traffic. All drivers must drive within the lines defining their lanes in Nevada, making splitting lanes illegal throughout the state.
If you’ve sustained injuries because of driver splitting lanes in Henderson, Nevada, the De Castroverde Law Group – Accident & Injury firm is here to help. These Las Vegas legal professionals will fight to get you the compensation you deserve.
Why Is Lane Splitting Illegal in Nevada?
Nevada calls the action of motorcyclists bobbing and weaving from lane to lane to avoid traffic jams lane splitting. Bikers use this tactic to maneuver their way in and out of the traffic because, unlike vehicles, motorcycles are small enough to fit into smaller spaces.
In the United States, thousands of people are injured and killed annually because of motorcycle accidents. According to one National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimation, 5,014 motorcyclists lost their lives in crashes in this country in 2019 alone.
These stats show that people get seriously hurt when safe riding practices get ignored. When a person is driving a large vehicle and a motorcyclist splits the lane, the driver may not see the rider, which could cause all parties serious injuries.
Although motorcyclists may believe that lane splitting helps them save time, they don’t necessarily get to their destinations faster. This approach is dangerous for anyone riding a motorcycle. Riders can get hurt in many ways while splitting lanes among Henderson. Always drive safely. If been injured in a motorcycle accident, seek legal help immediately.
Nevada Lane Splitting Injuries and Laws
Since lane splitting is dangerous to everyone on the road, Nevada laws impose fines on riders caught practicing this dangerous trend. Penalties are no less than $190 for first-time offenders.
But these fines can increase depending on the actual offenses. Repeat offenders stand the chances of losing their drivers’ licenses altogether, so the state prohibits this practice.
Nevada driving laws hold the motorcyclist responsible for any injuries or damage caused by an accident that involves splitting lanes. The motorcyclist could be liable for any incurred property expenses and medical costs suffered by the plaintiffs.
And, to be clear, Nevada considers all lane splitting illegal. This view goes for vehicle drivers too. If a driver jumps from lane to lane in a car or truck trying to maneuver traffic, that driver is also responsible for any damage or injuries caused by accidents related to the lane splitting.
Can Children Be Passengers on Motorcycles in Nevada?
Nevada law allows a child to ride on the back of a motorcycle, but motorcyclists must follow specific rules. The driver must get on the bike first, and the child must be seated behind the driver. Learn more about whether children can be passengers on motorcycles.
Do I Need to Wear a Helmet When Riding a Motorcycle in Henderson?
Nevada follows the universal helmet law that states that any person driving or riding a motorcycle must wear a helmet. Your bike riding headgear must meet the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s helmet safety and use laws.
Also, if your bike does not have a windscreen or windshield, the state requires that you wear a face shield or protective goggles. This equipment improves safety by protecting your eyes from flying debris and anything else that may hinder your eyesight while driving your bike.
Can I Do Wheelies on My Motorcycle in Henderson?
What is a wheelie? It’s the practice of lifting your front tire off the pavement while riding with only the rear tire touching the ground. Also known as “popping a wheelie,” this act may seem exciting to drivers, but this foolish demonstration could lead to an accident, serious injury, or death.
Intentionally popping a wheelie is illegal throughout the entire country. Nevada treats this driving offense harshly for repeat offenders. You won’t find the word “wheelie” mentioned in state criminal or traffic codes. Instead, the crime falls under the law “engaging in trick riding while on a public highway.”
Some of the consequences motorcycle drivers commonly suffer after getting caught wheelie popping by police include:
- Fines.
- Local jail time.
- County jail time.
Are ATVs Allowed on the Road in Henderson?
What is an ATV? An all-terrain vehicle is a motorized vehicle created for off-highway purposes. Drivers operate the vehicle on four non-pneumatic or low-pressure wheels, with a seat allowing the operator to straddle it while steering the bike using its handlebars.
ATVs are not allowed on Nevada’s roads. Off-highway vehicle or OHV drivers must follow strict guidelines when operating ATVs in Nevada.
No Public Roads or Highways
ATVs ARE NOT ALLOWED ON NEVADA’S HIGHWAYS OR PUBLIC ROADS since ATV manufacturers design and create these vehicles strictly for off-road use. The state makes no exceptions to this rule.
Rule of Modified Comparative Negligence
This rule states that a judge can reduce a plaintiff’s compensation based on what a judge rules as that party’s percentage of negligence. In other words, if you, the plaintiff, are found to be 20% responsible, and you receive a $20,000 award, you can only recover $16,000 after the 20% reduction in a Nevada personal injury case.
Nevada also follows the 51% Bar Rule, which means that a plaintiff must be less than 51% responsible for the accident to recover compensation in a personal injury case.
Henderson Motorcycle Injury Attorneys
If you’ve received injuries from a motorcycle accident or someone you loved has died due to an accident involving a motorcycle in Henderson, you may be entitled to receive compensation. The De Castroverde Law Group – Accident & Injury attorneys can assist you. You shouldn’t feel that you need to fight alone for your right to receive compensation. Put our experienced attorneys to work for you.
Give us a call at 702-803-3048 to schedule a free consultation. Or contact us online via our secure messaging service.