Hitting the open road on a motorcycle in Nevada offers stunning landscapes and the freedom of the wind in your hair. Whether you’re a new rider or a seasoned professional, it’s always important to know the motorcycle laws in your state, like motorcycle license requirements and helmet laws. Another common concern among motorcycle enthusiasts concerns Nevada lane splitting laws.
In this blog, ER Injury Attorney’s Nevada motorcycle accident lawyers explain lane splitting laws in Nevada, the dangers of lane splitting, and potential hazards.
What Is Lane Splitting?
Lane splitting describes the practice of riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic moving in the same direction. So, instead of staying within a designated lane, motorcyclists weave through the gaps between vehicles. Lane splitting is sometimes referred to as line filtering.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Nevada?
Lane splitting is illegal in Nevada. In Nevada, lane splitting is illegal under NRS 486.351(2). This means you cannot pass other vehicles within the same lane, whether they are moving or stationary. Nevada law also prohibits motorcycles weaving in and out of traffic lanes, even when traffic is stopped or slow.
Nevada lane splitting laws were established due to safety concerns. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, and weaving between lanes can increase the risk of potentially catastrophic accidents for both motorcyclists and other road users.
Consequences of Nevada Lane Splitting
Even though lane splitting is illegal in Nevada, it doesn’t stop motorcycle riders from doing it. However, there are consequences, including:
- Fines starting at $190
- License suspension for repeated violations
- Criminal charges
- Insurance companies refusing coverage or raising rates
If you cause an accident due to lane splitting, you might be held liable. This means you are responsible for an injured party’s medical bills, property damage, and more. Additionally, under Nevada’s modified comparative negligence law, you might not be able to recover damages if you are found to be 100% at fault for the accident.
Dangers of Lane Splitting
Nevada lane splitting laws were designed because of safety concerns. Opponents argue that it increases the risk of accidents and injuries due to:
- Reduced visibility: Drivers may not anticipate motorcycles weaving between lanes, leading to collisions.
- Speeding: Lane splitting often involves traveling faster than surrounding traffic, further complicating reaction times.
- Limited awareness: Motorcyclists have less room to maneuver and are more vulnerable to sudden lane changes or debris.
- Road hazards: Debris, potholes, and uneven surfaces are more difficult to avoid when lane splitting due to limited space and reaction time.
- Driver anger and aggression: Some drivers find lane splitting inconsiderate, which can lead to road rage and aggressive behavior towards you.
- Traffic conditions: Slow-moving, congested traffic or frequent lane changes significantly increase the dangers of lane splitting.
If you are stuck in traffic, lane splitting might seem like the way out of a jam. There are other alternatives for motorcycle riders in Nevada for navigating congested roads:
- Plan your rides: Opt for less congested routes and avoid peak traffic times.
- Utilize alternative lanes: If legal and safe, use designated motorcycle lanes or carpool lanes (when permitted).
- Maintain safe riding practices: Increase visibility, obey traffic laws, and stay alert to avoid potential hazards.
- Communicate your intent with other drivers. Use turn signals and brake lights to make your movements clear.
Contact Our Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Remember that Nevada lane splitting laws are there to keep you and others on the road safe. When riding your motorcycle in Nevada, lane splitting is simply not an option. Instead, focus on safe riding practices, respect for fellow road users, and obeying all traffic laws. Even if you ride safely, it doesn’t mean others will. If you or a loved one are injured due to the recklessness or negligence of a rider lane splitting, our Las Vegas personal injury lawyers can help.
Our dedicated team of personal injury attorneys is here to help you understand your legal options, fight for the compensation you deserve, and achieve the best possible outcome for your case. We’ve helped clients in Las Vegas, Henderson, Summerlin, Boulder City, and Pahrump obtain damages like pain and suffering, lost wages, and more for their injuries. We are available 24/7 to help.
Contact us 24/7 by calling 702-878-7878, via LiveChat, or by filling out our contact form for your free case consultation.