Riding a motorcycle is an exciting, affordable way to travel the roads of Nevada. However, motorcyclists are also at an increased risk of serious injury or death in the event of a motor vehicle collision. Motorcyclists must follow Nevada motorcycle laws to reduce the risk of injury to themselves or others.
This guide outlines the Nevada motorcycle laws and regulations you must follow if you plan to ride a motorcycle. A motorcycle accident attorney in Nevada can also explain how Nevada’s laws apply to your case.
Nevada Motorcycle Laws You Should Know
Even experienced riders can make mistakes that lead to serious or fatal motorcycle crashes. If you operate a motorcycle in Nevada, you must comply with certain rules and regulations, including:
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Class M Driver’s License Requirements for Motorcyclists in Nevada
Unlike drivers of 4-wheel automobiles, motorcycle drivers in Nevada must obtain a Nevada Class M driver’s license. You can get a motorcycle license at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) office if you’re at least 16 years old. You must obtain a license through one of the following actions:
- Transferring an out-of-state motorcycle license to Nevada
- Completing a vision screening, knowledge test, and skills test
- Completing a motorcycle safety course
You must prove that you understand the basic components of a motorcycle and the fundamentals of riding a motorcycle safely.
Nevada Motorcycle Helmet Laws and Other Equipment Requirements
Nevada wants to ensure the safety of every motorcyclist, so helmets are required by law. Wearing a helmet greatly reduces the chances of suffering head injuries such as traumatic brain injuries in the event of a motorcycle collision. A motorcyclist must also wear goggles, glasses, or a face shield if the motorcycle doesn’t have a windshield.
If you’re caught operating a motorcycle without a helmet, you may be required to pay a fine or face other penalties.
Motorcycles must also have functional:
- Headlights and taillights
- You must have at least one headlamp that’s visible from at least 1,000 feet away
- You should use your headlights during inclement weather and from dusk to dawn
- You must have at least one headlamp that’s visible from at least 1,000 feet away
- Brake lights
- Brake lights must be visible from 500 feet away
- Reflectors
- Motorcycles should be equipped with at least one rear reflector that’s visible from 300 feet away
- Brakes
- Brakes must be in proper working order to ensure the safety of the motorcyclist and everyone else sharing the road
- Turn signals
- Motorcycles manufactured after January 1st, 1973, must have electric turn signal lamps in the front and rear of the vehicle
- Rearview mirrors
- The motorcycle must have rear-view mirrors on each handlebar
- Mufflers
- Motorcycles must be equipped with a muffler and comply with local noise ordinances
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Insurance Requirements for Motorcycle Riders
The Nevada Division of Insurance states that motorcyclists must carry liability insurance. This insurance covers injuries and property damage sustained by another motorist in the event of an accident in which the motorcyclist is at fault.
Motorcyclists are also encouraged to obtain uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This insurance covers you and your passenger if you’re in an accident caused by a driver without sufficient auto insurance. It also covers you if you are involved in a hit-and-run.
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Road Laws for Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists are expected to follow the same basic traffic laws and regulations as other types of motorists. They must:
- Follow all posted speed limits
- Come to a complete stop at stop signs and red lights
- Comply with yield signs and other road signs
- Use turn signals when turning
- Only pass on the right
- Yield the right of way to pedestrians and bicyclists
- Maintain a safe distance from other motorists
- Ride in the same direction as traffic and stay within their designated lane
Like other motorists, motorcyclists cannot use a hand-held phone while driving. You cannot text message or use the internet while operating a motorcycle. Texting while driving is considered a misdemeanor offense in Nevada.
Driving a motorcycle under the influence of drugs or alcohol is also illegal in Nevada. The legal limit is 0.08% blood alcohol content (BAC), but you can be arrested for intoxicated driving even if your BAC is below the threshold if you show signs of impairment.
Lane Splitting and Passing
Lane sharing or splitting occurs when a motorcyclist drives between vehicles in adjacent lanes or passes a vehicle in the same lane. In Nevada, lane splitting is prohibited. You are not allowed to drive between vehicles. If you need to pass a vehicle, you must enter the left lane and pass the vehicle the same way the driver of a passenger automobile would pass a vehicle.
Motorcyclists in Nevada are permitted to drive adjacent to each other in the same lane as long as no more than two motorcyclists occupy the same lane at one time.
Nevada Parking Laws for Motorcycles
Many people enjoy riding a motorcycle because its small size allows for easier maneuvering and parking. However, in most cases, motorcyclists must follow the same parking laws as passenger vehicles. If you have a handicapped license plate for your motorcycle, you may park in the disabled parking spaces.
Safe Driving Practices for Nevada Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists are especially vulnerable in the event of a crash. Reduce your chances of being hurt in an accident by following safe driving practices such as:
- Wearing appropriate protective gear
- Ensuring your motorcycle is regularly maintained and functioning properly
- Wearing bright, reflective clothing
- Avoiding distractions that take your attention away from the road
- Avoiding driving in hazardous weather
Contact a Nevada Motorcycle Accident Law Firm If You Were Hurt in an Accident
If you or a loved one suffered injuries in a Nevada motorcycle crash, Van Law can help you. Our Nevada personal injury lawyers represent injured people in car crash cases, motorcycle accident cases, and other types of personal injury claims.
We have recovered over $150 million for past clients and have over 500 5-star reviews. Our lawyers know that motorcycle accident cases can be complex, and we’re committed to providing the legal guidance you need to pursue fair compensation. We take cases on a contingency-fee basis, so you don’t pay upfront fees for our legal services.
Call our office today to get started with your free initial consultation.
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