Move Over Laws are designed to protect emergency responders, tow truck operators, those who have been involved in car accidents, and others who may be on the side of the road by requiring drivers to change lanes or slow down when approaching. These laws not only enhance the safety of individuals providing critical roadside assistance but also ensure the orderly flow of traffic during emergency situations. If you’ve been in an accident related to a Move Over violation, a Las Vegas car accident attorney can help you understand your legal options and pursue compensation. In Nevada, some of the most important Move Over laws to understand include the following:
Actions Following a Minor Collision
In the event of a minor collision without any injuries, maintaining an uninterrupted traffic flow is essential. It reduces the risk of further incidents and contributes to overall safety. To achieve this, it’s important to take immediate action:
- Move Your Vehicle: As soon as it’s safe, relocate your vehicle to the side of the road or the shoulder. This ensures that you’re not obstructing traffic and allows other vehicles to pass freely.
- Secure Your Vehicle and Return to Scene: After ensuring your vehicle is safely positioned, return to the scene to exchange pertinent information with any other involved parties. This may include exchanging names, contact details, driver’s license numbers, vehicle registrations, and insurance information.
Reporting Serious Accidents
In situations where a crash results in injuries or property damage amounting to $750 or more, it is required to take the following steps:
- Report to the DMV: These serious accidents must be reported to the Department of Motor Vehicles. This ensures all incidents are documented appropriately within the state system.
- File an Accident Report: If law enforcement is unable to investigate the crash, individuals involved must file an accident report within ten days. This is a legal requirement under Nevada law and is critical for maintaining an accurate account of the event.
NRS 484E.070 Written or electronic report of crash to Department by driver or owner; exceptions; confidentiality; use as evidence at trial. Except as otherwise provided in subsections 3, 4 and 5, the driver of a vehicle which is in any manner involved in a crash on a highway or on premises to which the public has access, if the crash results in bodily injury to or the death of any person or total damage to any vehicle or item of property to an apparent extent of $750 or more, shall, within 10 days after the crash, forward a written or electronic report of the crash to the Department. Compliance with these guidelines ensures that all parties are legally protected and that the state has an accurate record of the incident.
Approaching Stopped Emergency Vehicles
When nearing an emergency situation or a traffic stop, caution and safety are essential. Adhere to the rules below:
- Slow Down: Reduce your speed to below the posted limit, ensuring it’s safe and suitable for the conditions.
- Proceed with Caution: Stay alert and ready to stop if necessary.
- Change Lanes Safely: Move to a lane farther away from the stopped vehicle, provided it is safe and possible. If not, maintain a careful distance.
- Upon approaching any traffic incident, the driver of the approaching vehicle shall, in the absence of other direction given by a law enforcement officer:
(a) Decrease the speed of the vehicle to a speed that is reasonable and proper, pursuant to the criteria set forth in subsection 1 of NRS 484B.600; (b) Proceed with caution; (c) Be prepared to stop; and (d) If possible, drive in a lane that is not adjacent to the lane or lanes where the traffic incident is located unless roadway, traffic, weather or other conditions make doing so unsafe or impossible. These rules pertain to a wide range of stopped vehicles, including emergency services, tow trucks, Nevada Department of Transportation (NDOT) vehicles with flashing lights, and vehicles that are stalled or disabled.
Slow-Moving Vehicles on Controlled-Access Highways
Drivers traveling below the speed limit should avoid using the far-left lane on controlled-access highways, especially when a faster vehicle approaches from behind. This rule facilitates smoother traffic flow, though it doesn’t apply within cities or towns. If a slow-moving vehicle causes an accident, a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer can help evaluate potential liability and assist victims in pursuing compensation.
Moped Operators’ Regulations in Nevada
Moped riders enjoy equal rights and responsibilities as other drivers but must generally ride in the far-right lane unless:
- There’s only one lane heading in their direction.
- They’re getting ready to make a left turn shortly (within a quarter mile).
- It’s unsafe to remain in the right lane.
- A police officer directs otherwise.
NRS 486.351 Unlawful passing; driving abreast; prohibition on driving in extreme left lane; exceptions. 4. A person, except a police officer in the performance of his or her duty, driving a moped shall, except: (a) When preparing to turn left as provided in subsection 5; (b) When doing so would not be safe; or (c) In compliance with the directions of a police officer, drive in the extreme right-hand lane if the highway has two or more clearly marked lanes for traffic traveling in the same direction in which the driver is traveling. 5. A person driving a moped as required pursuant to subsection 4 who is preparing to turn left may enter the lane from which the left turn will be made not more than one-quarter of a mile from where the left turn will be made. Moped operators are required to possess a valid driver’s license, register their vehicle, and wear a helmet for safety. Move over laws play a crucial role in safeguarding first responders, law enforcement personnel, and stranded motorists by reducing the risk of additional accidents and injuries at emergency scenes. If you have any questions or you’ve been involved in an accident and need help, contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a personal injury lawyer.
