Motorcycle Laws in Nevada
Before you can operate a motorcycle in Nevada, you must meet certain licensing requirements, helmet laws, and safety equipment regulations. The legal code for motorcycles is NRS – Chapter 486. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Nevada, whether you were following the state’s motorcycle laws could play a vital role in your accident case.
Accidents can cause sudden expenses and stress for motorcycle riders and their families. That is why it helps to have legal support from lawyers who understand Nevada motorcycle laws. Our dedicated legal team at THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys is always ready to guide you in case of a motorcycle crash.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Las Vegas motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation. Our compassionate and knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorneys will help you demand the maximum compensation available to you. Call us today to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation.
How Our THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys Handle Motorcycle Accident Cases
When you face a motorcycle accident, dealing with the aftermath can be time-consuming. Medical bills, bike repairs, and reports from a police officer are only a part of what goes into these cases. At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, our motorcycle accident lawyers focus on handling each step carefully. We gather data from official documents, speak to witnesses, and work with insurance adjusters. We also stay current on Nevada motorcycle laws to ensure that we protect your legal rights.
Below are several steps we take when handling cases:
- Initial Assessment: We listen to your story in detail. We confirm the time, place, and circumstances around the motorcycle crash.
- Evidence Review: Our team reviews medical records, police reports, and photographs. We also explore any available video footage.
- Negotiations: We discuss settlements with insurance companies on your behalf to save you from added stress.
- Litigation: If a settlement does not meet your needs, we are prepared to file a lawsuit and present evidence at trial.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers can guide you through each step and help you make decisions about your claim. We believe that every rider deserves respect on the road, and we work to hold the responsible party accountable.
Nevada Motorcycle Laws and Safety
The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) enforces these standards to lower the number of traffic accidents. Laws cover important topics like the use of a helmet and protective glasses, as well as proper licensing.
When you ride motorcycles, you must follow the same traffic laws as drivers of passenger vehicles. You are expected to stop at lights, yield correctly, and avoid sudden moves that can endanger other road users. Here are a few important points you should know:
- Helmet Law: Riders must wear helmets approved by the state.
- Protective Glasses or Face Shields: If your motorcycle is not equipped with a proper windscreen, you must wear goggles or face shields.
- Lane Splitting: Riding between adjacent traffic lanes is not allowed in Nevada. A motorcycle rider must remain in a complete traffic lane and avoid passing in the same lane as another vehicle.
- Motorcycle Safety Course: Many Nevada public colleges and motorcycle dealerships provide classes that fulfill state requirements. Completing these classes can help with a motorcycle endorsement on your existing Nevada license.
- Liability Insurance: You must carry insurance that meets Nevada law standards.
Nevada Motorcycle Helmet Laws
In Nevada, motorcyclists and their passengers are required to wear helmets that meet standards set by the U.S. Department of Transportation, according to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles. Exceptions are mopeds under 50cc incapable of reaching more than 30 mph.
Motorcyclists and their passengers must also wear protective glasses, goggles, or face shields. You don’t have to use protective glasses if you are operating a motorcycle equipped with windscreens. However, you must still wear a helmet.
If you recently moved to Nevada, you must register all your vehicles, including motorcycles, with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within the first 30 days. Electric bikes and mopeds are exempt from registration.
Motorcycle License Laws in Nevada
If you are a Nevada resident who wants to operate a motorcycle in the state, you must obtain a Nevada Class M driver’s license. It’s worth noting that some motorcycle-like vehicles, such as mopeds and tri-mobiles, do not require a Class M license to operate on public property, as long as the operator has a standard driver’s license.
Before obtaining the Class M license, you must already have a Nevada-issued Class C (standard vehicle) license or higher. Applicants older than 18 must pass a vision, written, and skills test, unless they have an exemption.
Applicants under 18 will need to:
- Have had a motorcycle instruction permit for no less than six months
- Have at least 50 hours of logged supervised riding experience
- Pass a motorcycle riding safety course or have an additional 50 hours of logged supervised riding experience
Required Equipment for Motorcycles in Nevada
Like cars and trucks, motorcycles in Nevada are required to have at least one headlight, a red tail light, and a brake light. The list below outlines all equipment requirements for motorcycles in Nevada.
To legally operate a motorcycle on Nevada roadways, your motorcycle must be equipped with the following:
- At least one headlight
- No more than two headlights
- A red taillight that can be seen from 500 feet
- A brake light that is visible in daylight up to 300 feet
- At least one rear reflector visible for 300 feet when hit with low-beam light
- Front and rear brakes
- Front and rear electric turn signals on motorcycles manufactured in 1973 or later
- Rearview mirrors on both handlebars
- Fenders on the front and back wheels
- Adjustable footrests
- Horn
- Muffler
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Nevada?
No, lane splitting is not legal in Nevada. This means that it is against the law for motorbike riders to ride between moving or stationary vehicles that occupy adjacent traffic lanes. If you lane split in Nevada, you could receive a traffic ticket and a fine. However, lane sharing is legal for motorcycle riders in Nevada. This means that motorcycle riders may ride side-by-side with other motorcycles in the same lane if both parties consent.
Why Motorcycle Safety Matters
Motorcycle safety programs are a significant aspect of preventing fatal motorcycle crashes. With adequate training, riders learn to handle hazards, drive defensively, and maintain control of their bikes. Below are a few reasons why safety training, legal compliance, and the use of protective gear matter:
- Reduces Risk of Serious Injuries: High-quality helmets, goggles or face shields, and other protective items help lower the chance of traumatic brain injuries or vision issues.
- Promotes Confident Riding: A certified motorcycle safety course hones defensive driving tactics and encourages proper use of a DMV driving log for practice.
- Encourages Legal Compliance: Following local ordinance governing parking, vehicle modification, and passenger guidelines can prevent legal complications.
- Demonstrates Responsibility: Carrying valid liability insurance, following the helmet law, and observing safe riding habits show respect for others on the road.
Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident? Talk to a Lawyer Now
If you or a loved one has been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Nevada, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses. Our skilled and experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Las Vegas will investigate every aspect of your accident and build a strong case on your behalf. We will hold the at-fault parties accountable and fight for the full and fair compensation you deserve.
Call us or contact us online today to schedule a free initial consultation. Our Las Vegas motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to help you move forward with your life after a serious crash. We also work on a contingency fee basis, meaning we don’t get paid unless we recover compensation for you.