With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility
As any competent Las Vegas injury lawyer would note, motorcycle accidents are far too common of an occurrence in the area. This is often due to improper training and illegal operation of a motorcycle in the state. Given the inherent dangers in operating a motorcycle that is dampened or non-existent when driving a traditional passenger vehicle, it’s paramount that you know the rules and regulations before hitting the road. Learn more about the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Nevada to better understand the risks involved.
Here are the basics that you should know, along with your rights under Nevada law, should you be involved in a motorcycle accident Las Vegas.
You Must Have a Motorcycle License
While a standard driver’s license may allow you to operate nearly any vehicle in Nevada legally, you’ll need a “Class M” license to operate a motorcycle on a public road legally.
This can be added as an “endorsement” to your standard license, but you’ll need to prove your ability to operate a motorcycle safely. This can be done in one of two ways. You can take a class at an approved school by that state of Nevada, which can exempt you from taking a DMV examination. If you choose not to, you’ll need to pass both written and practical exams at the DMV. Also, be aware of Nevada motorcycle laws and what drivers need to know for safer road sharing.
You Must Have Proper Equipment and Follow Laws
Though much of Nevada is rural, the state has a helmet requirement for all motorcyclists. Unless your motorcycle is less than two horsepower or can’t exceed 30 mph, you’ll need a U.S. DOT-approved helmet whenever riding. Strict laws govern motorcyclists, but motorcycle accidents in Las Vegas remain frequent. Be sure to know and follow insurance requirements for Las Vegas motorcyclists to protect yourself financially in case of an accident.
Here are a few key laws to keep in mind:
- You can’t have more than one passenger unless the motorcycle is designed to accommodate more than one.
- Handlebar height cannot exceed the driver’s shoulders while the motorcycle is operated.
- Every motorcycle must have one or two operating headlamps at all times.
- Non-antique motorcycles (made after 1973) must have operational turn signals, which must be used.
Learn more about how to stay safe by avoiding motorcycle accidents in Las Vegas with these simple tips.
Your Rights As a Motorcyclist in Las Vegas
Now that we’ve gone over the regulations for motorcyclists, it’s important to understand that Nevada law protects your rights. Revised Statute 486.331 states that anyone operating a motorcycle is entitled to all the rights and subject to all the duties applicable to the drivers of motor vehicles. This statute ensures that motorcyclists are treated fairly and that they’re not pushed aside in favor of cars. For instance, lane-splitting is illegal in Nevada, as outlined in our article on lane-splitting laws for motorcyclists in Nevada.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, while Nevada has high expectations for motorcyclists, the state grants them equal rights to operators of other motor vehicles. If you’ve been involved in an accident as a motorcyclist, don’t feel marginalized!
The Schnitzer Law Firm is headed by Jordan Schnitzer, a prominent personal injury lawyer in Las Vegas. With his partners and a team of associates, you can be assured that your rights will be upheld in court. A Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorney can help you fight for the compensation you deserve after sustaining injuries due to another driver’s negligence. If you’re interested in a free, confidential case evaluation, contact us today. You can also email us at contact@theschnitzerlawfirm.com or call (702) 960-4050. Our team is available 24/7, and if you don’t win, you don’t pay!