Nevada's roads, especially in Las Vegas, have been the backdrop for a concerning trend in traffic safety. The year 2022 marked one of the deadliest in three decades for the state, with the Department of Public Safety reporting 382 fatalities. This nearly mirrors the previous year's figures, highlighting a consistent challenge in road safety efforts. Factors like distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving top the list of causes, reflecting national concerns within Nevada's unique context. Weather also plays a critical role, with Nevada's varied climate contributing to hazardous driving conditions.
Additionally, pedestrian and bicycle safety remains a significant concern, with fatalities in these categories showing worrying increases. As Nevada continues to grapple with these issues, the focus on improving road safety and reducing traffic-related deaths remains paramount.
Additionally, pedestrian and bicycle safety remains a significant concern, with fatalities in these categories showing worrying increases. As Nevada continues to grapple with these issues, the focus on improving road safety and reducing traffic-related deaths remains paramount.
Some Nevada roads experience notably high numbers of crashes and deaths. Drivers should be extra careful on these roads. Here are the most treacherous roads in Nevada – the ones with the highest crash rates and fatalities.
Here's an in-depth guide on what to do after a car accident in Nevada:
If involved in a car accident, Nevada law requires you to stop your vehicle. If it's safe, move your car to the side of the road to avoid obstructing traffic. However, if there are serious injuries, it's best to leave the cars as they are until law enforcement arrives.
It's crucial to exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver(s), including names, addresses, vehicle registration numbers, and insurance details. Also, if possible, get the contact information of witnesses and the attending officer's name.
Nevada advises against admitting fault at the accident scene, as this could affect your insurance claims and legal proceedings. Admitting fault or apologizing could be used against you to determine liability.
Capture images or videos of the accident site, encompassing all vehicles implicated, visible damages, and pertinent road conditions or signage. This documentation can be vital for insurance claims and potential legal actions.
If the accident caused death, injury, or property damage amounting to $750 or more, you are required to report it to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days. Failing to report could lead to a suspension of your driving privileges for up to a year.
Nevada law obligates you to render reasonable assistance to any injured parties, which might include calling for an ambulance or providing or arranging transportation to a hospital if necessary.
Leaving the Scene: Leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling your legal obligations (such as exchanging information and rendering aid) can lead to severe penalties, including a category B felony charge if the accident resulted in injury or death, punishable by 2 to 20 years in prison and a fine of $2,000 to $5,000.
Misdemeanor and Felony Charges: For accidents involving only property damage, fleeing the scene is considered a misdemeanor, potentially resulting in up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $1,000, and demerit points on your license. In contrast, accidents resulting in death or bodily injury and fleeing the scene can result in a category B felony.
If you hit an unattended vehicle, you must make a reasonable effort to find the owner and provide your contact information. If that's not possible, securely attach your information to the vehicle. You must also report the incident to the police.
Seat Belts and Car SeatsIn Nevada, both drivers and passengers must wear safety belts. Children under six years of age or with a height of less than 57 inches must be secured in appropriately sized car seats.
Distracted DrivingIt's illegal to talk, send, or receive messages or browse the internet on a cellular phone or other handheld wireless devices without a hands-free accessory in Nevada.
Impaired DrivingDriving under the influence of alcohol or any substance impairing the driver's ability is prohibited. Nevada enforces strict DUI laws to prevent impaired driving incidents.
Speed RestrictionsNevada applies a Basic Rule for driving at reasonable and proper speeds, considering traffic, weather, road conditions, and more. The proper speed might be considerably lower than the posted limit. Moreover, NRS chapters detail specific regulations, such as duties to decrease speed under certain conditions and restrictions in work zones, school zones, and near emergency vehicles.
Teen Driving RestrictionsFor drivers under 18, Nevada imposes passenger and curfew restrictions. New teen drivers cannot transport non-family members under 18 for the first six months, and they may not drive between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for a scheduled event.
Parking RestrictionsNevada sets clear guidelines for parking, including restrictions near fire stations, construction zones, and designated spaces for persons with disabilities.
Insurance RequirementsNevada mandates that all vehicles have insurance coverage meeting the state's minimum requirements, which include a per-person bodily injury cover of $25,000, a per-accident bodily injury cover of $50,000, and a per-accident property damage cover of $20,000.
Road Sharing RulesSharing the road safely with commercial vehicles, motorcycles, mopeds, school buses, bicycles, and pedestrians is emphasized, with specific behaviors outlined to avoid accidents and ensure everyone's safety.
Most of Nevada’s traffic laws are typical, but the state has some unique and odd laws as well.