Nevada Right of Way Laws
Understanding who has the right of way is an essential skill that any driver should know. Nevada has several regulations regarding right of ways for motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians. Here are the general guidelines you should know.
Intersections and Left Turns
Under NRS 484B.250, there are two main intersection rules to follow:
- A driver approaching an intersection must yield to a vehicle that has already entered the intersection from a different direction.
- If two cars approach the intersection at the same time, the driver on the left must yield to the driver on the right.
Other guidelines regarding what to do when the highway ends at the intersection and when traffic control signals are inoperative can be found here.
In terms of left turns, drivers already in the intersection who intend to turn left must yield to vehicles traveling straight from the other direction. However, when the left-turning driver has been given a left signal, drivers traveling from the other direction must yield.
Cyclists
For those who use bicycles, electric bicycles, or scooters as their primary means of transportation, motorists have a certain duty of care to uphold. Drivers must:
- Not intentionally interfere with a person operating a bike, electric bike, or scooter.
- Move to a different lane when passing or overtaking a cyclist if one is available. If one is not available, they must have at least 3 feet of space between them and the cyclist.
- Not enter, stop or park in designated bike or pedestrian lanes except for a few circumstances (such as entering the roadway from a driveway).
- Exercise due care to avoid collisions with cyclists.
Pedestrians
In general, pedestrians must abide by all traffic signs and signals. They are also protected by the guidelines in the previous section. However, per NRS 484B.287, pedestrians must yield the right of way to vehicles if not using a marked or unmarked crosswalk.
It’s also important to note that vision impaired pedestrians traveling with a cane/walking stick or service animal have the right of way, and drivers who violate this rule are subject to penalties.
Las Vegas Accident Attorneys
Understanding the right of way laws can help keep all road users safe. When negligent individuals disregard these, they should be held liable for any damages caused. Bertoldo Carter Smith & Cullen is committed to protecting those who are injured by another’s actions. Schedule a free consultation to learn how we can help by calling (702) 505-8115.