What is Reckless Driving in Nevada?
Operating a vehicle in a dangerous manner that shows disregard for the safety of others is considered reckless driving in Nevada. Speeding, making unsafe lane changes, and driving while impaired are examples of behaviors that can lead to reckless driving charges. In this article, we will take a closer look at what constitutes reckless driving in Nevada. We will also provide guidance on steps to take if you have been in an accident caused by someone driving recklessly.
What is Reckless Driving in Nevada?
In Nevada, reckless driving is treated as a serious traffic offense. According to Nevada Revised Statute 484B.653, an individual may be charged with reckless driving if they drive a motor vehicle in a way that intentionally or unreasonably ignores the safety of people or property. This can include:
- Driving in excess of the posted speed limit
- Making unsafe lane changes
- Tailgating
- Street racing
- Passing a stopped school bus
- Ignoring traffic signs or signals
- Any other dangerous maneuvers.
Lives depend on drivers making smart choices and driving with caution. Reckless driving puts everyone at risk.
How Common Is Reckless Driving in Nevada?
Unfortunately, reckless driving remains a widespread problem on roads across Nevada. Data reveals over 167 citations were issued just in 2021 for reckless driving violations. The high frequency of reckless driving stems from several factors unique to Nevada, such as:
- The tourism industry brings congestion and distracted drivers, especially on Las Vegas highways.
- Open rural roads tempt drivers to push speed limits.
- Nevada's driving culture embraces thrill-seeking behaviors.
The Las Vegas area accounts for a large share of offenses, given its tourists, traffic jams, and the Strip's distractions. However, reckless driving permeates both urban and rural regions. Common violations include speeding 100+ mph, racing, passing on shoulders, disregarding signs, erratic lane changes, and tailgating. Residents frequently voice concerns and demand improved enforcement.
The Consequences of Reckless Driving in Nevada
Engaging in reckless driving in Nevada can wreak havoc on a person's life. Those who choose to drive recklessly face stern legal punishments, including potential jail time and hefty fines. Specifically, a first offense for reckless driving may result in up to 6 months imprisonment and fines of up to $1,000. Subsequent violations can lead to even harsher consequences - up to 1 year in jail and fines up to $2,000.
The Nevada DMV will also hit reckless drivers hard through the point system. Each reckless driving offense leads to 4 demerit points on your license. Rack up over 12 points in 12 months, and your license can be suspended for six months. Get 18+ points in 24 months, and your driving privileges may be revoked for a full year.
Beyond the legal penalties, a reckless driving conviction also creates a permanent criminal record that can limit future opportunities for jobs, housing, loans, and education. Insurance rates typically skyrocket as well, costing hundreds or thousands of extra dollars annually.
Most troubling, reckless driving often causes severe crashes, resulting in catastrophic injuries, death, and massive vehicle damage. The reckless driver assumes all financial liability in these situations.
Common Injuries Caused by Reckless Driving
Reckless driving can easily result in severe collisions and traumatic injuries due to the extreme forces involved. Frequent bone fractures occur, especially to ribs, hips, limbs, skull, and facial bones. Spinal cord and brain trauma leading to paralysis or permanent impairment are also prevalent. Additional common injuries include lacerations, burns, damaged abdominal organs, and internal bleeding. The human body simply cannot withstand the intense impacts of a reckless driving crash unscathed.
What to Do If You're Involved in a Reckless Driving Accident
If you are injured in a crash caused by a reckless driver in Nevada, it is crucial to take certain steps to protect your health and legal rights. These steps are:
- First, seek immediate medical attention, even for minor injuries, to get thoroughly examined and start proper treatment. Report the full extent of pain and symptoms to aid diagnosis. Follow your doctor’s orders closely to help maximize recovery.
- Second, file an official police report detailing the reckless driver's behavior and requesting they face charges. Provide the report's number to your vehicle accident lawyer and medical providers. Take photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, and injuries to document evidence.
- Third, consult a personal injury accident attorney or a car accident lawyer Summerlin, about pursuing compensation for damages. Our specialist team of lawyers at Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys can investigate who was at fault, estimate claims value, file insurance claims on your behalf, and initiate a lawsuit if warranted. Just remember to keep records of all medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and other losses for evidence.
- Fourth, resist speaking with any insurance adjusters before discussing with an attorney first. Seek advice from a Summerlin car accident lawyer before signing any releases.
- Finally, follow up regularly with your medical team and personal injury accident lawyers to get the recovery care and just compensation you deserve after being harmed by a reckless driver in Nevada.
How Much Compensation Might You Receive After a Reckless Driving Incident in Nevada?
If you have been injured by a reckless driver in Nevada, you may be eligible to recover significant compensation through insurance claims or personal injury lawsuits. Potential damages can include reimbursement for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses stemming from the crash. With supportive evidence and quality legal representation from a personal injury lawyer, six and seven-figure settlements are possible depending on the severity of the incident, injuries, and recklessness displayed. Punitive damages may also be pursued to further punish wanton misconduct by the driver.
Reckless driving laws in Nevada aim to prevent hazardous behaviors. Penalties include fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. While reckless driving may seem like a minor traffic violation to some drivers, it is considered a misdemeanor criminal offense in Nevada that should be taken very seriously. The costs and consequences of choosing to drive recklessly far outweigh the risks.
If you’ve been injured in a reckless driving accident, contact our team at Karns & Karns Personal Injury and Accident Attorneys. We have many years of experience in cases like this and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. Call 800-4THE-WIN (800-484-3946) today to learn about how we can assist you, or visit us at our office in Henderson, Nevada.
