Nevada’s traffic laws are designed to keep people safe, especially the far less protected pedestrians and cyclists, but when people violate the laws, the consequences can be severe and devastating. Bicyclists and pedestrians may face ongoing pain and suffering and permanent disabilities when drivers fail to follow the rules of the road.
Bicycles and Cars Sharing the Road
In general, bicyclists and motorists have the same rights and responsibilities on the road. However, in most cases, motorists need to give way to bicycles in order to prevent dangerous crashes. Cars must give bicyclists 3 feet of clearance as they drive and while passing. Bicycles are permitted on the streets and many Nevada sidewalks, and they also have the right to fully occupy a lane of traffic on most roads. On multi-lane roads, a bicyclist is entitled to full use of a lane, and cars that wish to pass must use another lane. Motorists are also not allowed to enter bike lanes except in narrow, emergency circumstances.
Bicyclists do have a responsibility to use proper lighting at night and follow the rules of the road, including signaling when turning or changing lanes and coming to a complete stop at red lights and stop signs. Unlike regular roads, highways can ban bicycles, and cyclists are not allowed to violate such prohibitions.
Watch Out for Pedestrians on the Road
While there are a number of Nevada laws to protect people walking, in one year, 35 out of 243 traffic accident fatalities involved pedestrians. At crosswalks and intersections, pedestrians have the right of way to cross the street. However, pedestrians may not suddenly run into the road directly into the path of an oncoming vehicle. In addition, pedestrians do need to yield to drivers when attempting to cross the street where there is no crosswalk or intersection. At the same time, drivers have a responsibility to look out for pedestrians and stop to avoid hitting people.
If you’ve been injured while cycling or walking due to a negligent driver, you could face escalating, costly medical bills as well as lost wages due to an inability to work. Injury lawyers of Nevada can help people who have been hurt due to someone else’s dangerous behavior to seek compensation for the damages they have suffered.
When you’ve been hurt in a bicycle crash or pedestrian accident caused by someone else, contact an experienced Las Vegas law firm that can help you get what you deserve. Call The Schnitzer Law Firm at 702-960-4050 or use our online form to set up a free consultation with our skilled personal injury attorneys.