Driving Is a Privilege and Not a Right
For many of us, it is hard to imagine life without a driver’s license. Even in a place such as Las Vegas where there are plenty of other means of transportation, the ability to get in your car and drive to where you want to go when you want is something you do not want to take for granted. Driving is a privilege, not a right. When you violate Nevada traffic laws, in addition to increasing the risk for car accidents and injuries, you also put your driver’s license in jeopardy.
Protecting Your Driver’s License by Following Written and Unwritten Laws
Do you remember your original excitement at getting a learner’s permit, or your nervousness about taking the driving exam? If you have been a licensed driver for many years, you may have forgotten the thrill and the freedom that went along with finally being able to drive a car. Driving is a privilege, and to protect yourself against the loss of it, it is important to follow the rules of the road.
The Nevada Driver Handbook advises that all drivers are required to follow unwritten laws meant to prevent car, bike, and pedestrian accidents, such as slowing down during inclement weather, along with written driving laws covering the following:
- Controlling your speed;
- Procedures for navigating in your lane;
- Signaling, turning, and passing other vehicles;
- Obeying traffic signs and signals;
- Driving on freeways and interstates;
- Procedures when driving through construction and road work areas;
- Stopping, parking, and handling any breakdowns or accidents that occur.
Under the Nevada demerit system, traffic violations are assigned a certain amount of points. Accumulating more than 12 points in any calendar year can result in the loss of your driving privileges.
Additional Ways You Can Lose Your Driving Privileges
In addition to not adhering to state driving laws, there are other ways you can lose your driving privileges. The Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) advises that the following are examples of situations in which your license could be suspended or revoked completely:
- For charges and convictions related to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications;
- For causing an accident involving a bicyclist or pedestrian;
- For failing to appear in court regarding a traffic ticket you received;
- For failing to carry the proper amount of automobile liability insurance;
- For failing to make court ordered child support payments;
- If you are found guilty of a graffiti related criminal violation;
- If you engaged, organized, or otherwise promoted or encouraged street racing;
- If you are a juvenile convicted of an alcohol, drug, or firearms offense.
Once your license is suspended or revoked, you will have to wait the designated time period and pay any associated fines before having it reinstated. Depending on the reason for the suspension, you may be required to attending a driver education course or retake the exam. Following unwritten and written driving laws is the best way to protect your driving privileges and ensure you are safe on the road. However, if you do find yourself involved in an accident, don’t hesitate to contact a Las Vegas car accident attorney for immediate help.