Known for its busy streets and bustling nightlife, it’s no surprise why Las Vegas is one of the most visited cities in the United States. With the volume of tourists and locals on the road, car accidents have become a cause of concern for the city. Hence, adhering to the driving rules and regulations of Las Vegas is a must to prevent these unfortunate incidents. If you’ve been injured in a car accident, consult a trusted Personal Injury Lawyer Las Vegas for legal guidance and support.
Understanding Traffic Laws in Las Vegas
According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety, fatal crashes have consistently increased yearly between 2015 and 2019. This information emphasizes the importance of understanding and following Nevada’s traffic laws to ensure safety for everyone on the road.
- U-turns: U-turns are permitted as long as they can be made safely at an intersection or on a divided highway with a suitable opening and as long as there are no signs or signals prohibiting them.
- Right on Red: You can make a right turn at a red light after stopping completely unless there’s a sign that says otherwise.
- Right of Way: You must be in the far right lane and give the right of way to pedestrians and all traffic going through the intersection.
- Cell Phone Usage and Texting: Using your cellphone while driving is strictly prohibited. Fines for the first offense are $50 within seven years, $100 for the second, and $250 for the third and subsequent offenses. Fines double in work zones and courts may add extra fees.
- Emergency Vehicles: You must reduce your speed, proceed with caution, and be prepared to stop when approaching a stopped emergency vehicle or traffic incident. If possible, you should also change lanes to one not adjacent to the stopped vehicle unless conditions make it unsafe.
Accidents: In a minor collision with no injuries, move your vehicle to the shoulder or a non-obstructive location and return to the scene. Report any crash with injuries or damages over $750 to the DMV, and if no police report is made, file your own report within 10 days.
Requirements to Drive in Las Vegas
To drive in Las Vegas, you must meet the following requirements:
- Valid Driver’s License: Your driver’s license must be issued by Nevada or another US state.
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 16 years old to drive in Nevada.
- New Residents: If you’re a new state resident, you must obtain a Nevada driver’s license within 30 days of establishing residency.
- Vehicle Rental: The minimum age to rent a car is 20. Drivers who are under 25 may incur additional fees.
- Vehicle Registration and Insurance: Your vehicle must be properly registered and should adhere to Nevada laws.
Speeding Limits in Las Vegas
Speed limits in Las Vegas are enforced to ensure road safety:
- Urban Areas: Typically 25 to 35 mph.
- Major Roads and Highways: Up to 65 mph, depending on the road.
- School Zones: 15 to 25 mph during school hours.
Basic Rule
Drivers are required to follow Nevada’s basic rule, which mandates driving at a reasonable and appropriate speed. This speed may be lower than the posted limit depending on factors such as traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Penalties
Speeding can result in expensive fines, accumulation of points on your driving record, increased insurance rates, and potential loss of driving privileges.
Driving Under the Influence
According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety, driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs has been the leading cause of accidents between 2015 and 2019. Hence, the state has strict DUI laws and heavy penalties to discourage impaired driving and improve road safety.
- Legal Limits: For drivers 21 and over, the legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%. Commercial drivers have a limit of 0.04%, and drivers under 21 can get a DUI charge for any detectable BAC.
- Penalties: DUI convictions can lead to large fines, suspension of your license, mandatory alcohol education programs, and even time in jail. The penalties get more severe with each offense and the level of impairment.
- Field Sobriety Tests: If officers suspect you’re under the influence, they may administer field sobriety tests or breathalyzer tests. Refusing to take these tests can lead to additional penalties.
- Zero Tolerance: Nevada has a zero-tolerance policy for underage drinking and driving, meaning any detectable level of alcohol in drivers under 21 can result in DUI charges.
Avoid driving if you’re impaired to prevent any accidents and ensure your safety and that of others on the road.
Parking in Las Vegas
In Las Vegas, finding parking is usually quite simple due to the abundance of parking options available throughout the city. Here are some places you can find proper parking spaces:
- Downtown Vegas: The area has many parking garages and lots. For example, the Fremont Street Experience Parking Garage has over 1,300 spaces. The cost is $4 per hour or a maximum of $20 per day.
- The Strip: You can find free street parking, but spaces fill up quickly. You may have to pay for parking in some areas, especially near major casinos and attractions.
- Hotel and Casino Parking: Many hotels and casinos offer guest parking. For example, guests can park for free at the El Cortez Hotel and Casino. Non-guests can park for up to two hours for $5.
- Parking Apps: Apps like Flowbird and ParkWhiz can make finding and paying for parking spaces more convenient and often allow contactless payment options.
Charging Electric Cars in Las Vegas
Las Vegas is a great place for electric vehicle (EV) owners, as the city boasts a network of numerous charging stations conveniently located throughout the area.
- Charging Stations: Las Vegas has almost 1,000 EV charging points. Approximately 145 are free, and around 260 are DC Fast Chargers, allowing faster charging.
- Location: Charging stations are conveniently installed along Las Vegas Boulevard and in the parking areas of many hotels and casinos.
- Charging Apps: Use apps like PlugShare or ChargePoint to find charging stations and check their availability.
Las Vegas provides a variety of choices for parking or charging your electric vehicle, ensuring that your visit is hassle-free and easily accessible.
Seek Legal Guidance from an Experienced Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
If you need expert legal guidance with driving-related matters in Las Vegas, seek help from a seasoned Las Vegas car accident lawyer. Call 702-960-4050 to schedule a free consultation today so we can discuss how we can assist you.