Speed Limits, Turning Right on Red Lights and U-Turns
Las Vegas drivers must obey the city’s traffic rules and regulations. If you violate a traffic law, you may find yourself facing a costly ticket. Certainly, a ticket is something that no driver wants to deal with. On top of that, breaking local traffic rules will increase your risk of ending up in a serious car accident.
We know that certain traffic rules and regulations vary by jurisdiction. To help you understand the rules in Las Vegas, our dedicated car accident lawyers answer three questions that are often asked by drivers who are unfamiliar with Las Vegas roads.
What is the Speed Limit in Las Vegas?
Clark County traffic safety officials set speed limits that are the maximum speed at which a vehicle can travel safely. Of course, this means that the speed limit in Las Vegas varies based on the specific stretch of road. On the major highways that traverse the city, such as Interstate 15 and Interstate 515, the speed limit is typically 65 MPH or 70 MPH.
On the major local roads in Las Vegas, including Tropicana Avenue, the speed limit is usually 45 MPH. On smaller local roads, the limit can vary between 25 MPH and 35 MPH. All drivers should be proactive and check the speed limit on the roads on which they are traveling. You should never drive too fast for the road conditions. Speeding accidents are a major problem in Southern Nevada. In certain situations, even the posted speed limit is actually too fast for safe driving in Las Vegas.
Can You Make a Right on Red in Las Vegas?
All Las Vegas drivers should know the law regarding making right turns at red lights. To start, as a general matter, it is legal to make a right on red in Las Vegas. However, there are some important restrictions that all drivers should know. To make a legal right turn at a red light, all of the following criteria must be met:
- You must come to a complete stop;
- You must yield to any oncoming traffic or pedestrians; and
- You cannot make a right on red if a posted sign indicates the maneuver is unlawful.
There are certain locations in Las Vegas where right turns are not allowed at red lights. At these locations, there are signs that indicate that right turns cannot be made on red lights. When you make a right on red, it is imperative that you remember to look for oncoming traffic and any crossing pedestrians. You do not have the right of way when making this traffic maneuver. The last thing you want to do is cause a failure to yield accident.
Is it Legal to Make a U-Turn in Las Vegas?
As a general matter, U-turns are legal in Las Vegas. Similar to right turns at red lights, there are a relatively small number of spots in the city where signs are posted that prohibit U-turns. Drivers must always comply with these signs. In addition, it is incumbent on the driver to ensure that they are only making safe U-turns. If a driver causes an accident while making a risky U-turn, it is possible that they may be held responsible for reckless driving. Play it safe: take extra precautions when making U-turns in Las Vegas.
1. Speed Limits, Turning Right on Red Lights and U-Turns: All drivers must comply with local traffic regulations. While many traffic laws are similar all across the United States, there are other rules that vary considerably by jurisdiction. In Las Vegas, drivers should be aware of the local speed limit. On most Clark County, NV highways, it is 65 MPH or 70 MPH, while on many streets within the city of Las Vegas, the speed limit is between 25 MPH and 35 MPH.
In addition, Las Vegas drivers should be aware of the city’s rules on turning right on red lights and its laws on U-turns. Turning right on red is legal in Las Vegas, unless there is a posted sign indicating otherwise. Similarly, U-turns are permitted in Las Vegas if they can be made safely and there is no posted sign prohibiting the maneuver.