Road safety in Nevada is becoming a bigger worry for everyone from residents to authorities. A recent report from the Las Vegas Review-Journal revealed a troubling increase in traffic accidents, underscoring the need for immediate action. Traffic violations are a major culprit in these accidents. Tackling and understanding these violations is key to making Nevada’s roads safer and reducing accidents.

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What Is a Traffic Violation in Nevada?

Criminal Misdemeanors or Civil Infractions?

Big changes are happening in Nevada’s traffic laws. The state recently passed Assembly Bill 116 (AB116), which shifts most traffic violations from criminal misdemeanors to civil infractions. This means if you get a traffic ticket, you’ll face a fine instead of criminal charges. Importantly, fines for these infractions are capped at $500 to prevent excessive penalties.

Even with these changes, dealing with traffic violations can be tricky. That’s where a traffic violation lawyer comes in. They help you understand your rights, contest fines, negotiate reductions, and make sure you’re treated fairly. These legal changes highlight the importance of legal expertise and Nevada’s ongoing commitment to road safety.

Types of Traffic Violations

Speeding and Its Consequences

Speeding fines in Nevada vary depending on how fast you were going over the limit. Minor infractions might cost you $20, but more serious speeding can lead to fines up to $200. Other common violations include unsafe lane changes and not wearing a seatbelt.

Other Common Traffic Infractions and Laws Impacting Nevada Drivers

Assembly Bill 349 (AB349) tightened the ‘classic car’ exemption for smog checks. This means fewer old cars qualify, helping protect the environment by ensuring more vehicles meet emission standards.

Criminal Traffic Offenses

In Nevada, traffic offenses can be minor infractions or serious criminal offenses.

Minor Infractions: Things like minor speeding, not signaling, or running a red light. These usually result in fines and citations but no criminal charges.
Serious Offenses: Reckless driving and DUI (driving under the influence) are serious offenses. They come with severe penalties, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

The Impact of Traffic Violations on Road Safety

Traffic-Related Incident Statistics

Traffic violations have a huge impact on road safety, causing thousands of deaths each year. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

Speeding: In 2022, speeding was a factor in 12,151 deaths. It not only increases the chance of accidents but also makes injuries worse.
Distracted Driving: In 2022, distracted driving caused 3,308 deaths. Activities like texting or adjusting the radio take attention away from driving, leading to accidents.
Alcohol-Impaired Driving: In 2022, driving under the influence of alcohol caused 13,524 deaths, a 14% increase from the previous year. Alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time, making it a major cause of fatal accidents.

The Role of Enforcement and Legal Penalties

Enforcing traffic laws is crucial for road safety:

Deterrence: Knowing that traffic laws are enforced discourages risky behaviors like speeding and drunk driving.
Behavior Modification: Penalties such as fines and license suspension encourage safer driving habits.
Accountability: Holding drivers responsible promotes a culture of safety and justice for victims.
Preventing Recidivism: Programs like defensive driving courses and alcohol education classes help rehabilitate offenders and reduce repeat violations.

These measures create safer roads by discouraging risky behaviors, changing driver habits, promoting responsibility, and preventing repeat offenses.

Legal Implications of Traffic Violations in Nevada

Navigating Civil Infractions

For civil infractions in Nevada, you’ll get a traffic citation from law enforcement. You can either pay the fine or contest the citation in court. If you contest, you’ll have a hearing to present your case. Penalties might include fines, points on your driving record, and sometimes traffic school to lessen the impact.

Is a Traffic Violation a Crime?

In Nevada, traffic violations can be either civil infractions or criminal charges. Civil infractions come with fines, points on your record, or traffic school. Serious charges like reckless driving or DUI have stiffer penalties, including fines, license suspension, and potential jail time. A traffic violation lawyer can help you understand your options, represent you in court, and protect your rights.

Protecting Your Rights After a Traffic Violation Ticket

If you get a traffic ticket in Nevada:

Review and Understand: Check the citation for accuracy and understand what you’re being accused of.
Options: Decide if you want to contest the ticket or accept it. If you contest, follow the instructions for scheduling a hearing.
Evidence: Collect evidence to support your case, like witness statements or documents.
Consider Legal Counsel: If the penalties are severe or you think the citation is unfair, get legal advice.
Appear in Court: If contesting, attend the court hearing, present your case, and follow court instructions.

Seeking Compensation in Traffic-Related Incidents

In Nevada’s fault-based system:

Impact of Violations: Traffic violations can determine fault in accidents, affecting liability and compensation.
Legal Counsel: Talk to a personal injury lawyer to evaluate your case and pursue fair compensation.
Evidence Gathering: Collect evidence, including police reports and damage documentation, to support your claim.
Advocacy: An attorney can guide you through the legal process and fight for your rights to ensure you get fair compensation.

FAQs

Q: What is a traffic violation in Nevada?

A: It can be a civil infraction or a criminal offense, depending on the severity.

Q: How has AB116 affected traffic violations in Nevada?

A: It changed most traffic violations from criminal misdemeanors to civil infractions, reducing the burden on the criminal justice system.

Q: What are the penalties for speeding in Nevada?

A: Speeding fines range from $20 to $200, depending on how much you exceed the speed limit.

Q: How can a traffic violation lawyer help?

A: They help you understand your rights, contest fines, negotiate reductions, and ensure fair treatment.

Schedule a Free Consultation With Naqvi Injury Law

Understanding traffic violations in Nevada is crucial for road safety and legal compliance. If you get a citation or face charges, consulting a lawyer is important. With expertise in Nevada law, an experienced lawyer like the ones that make up the Naqvi Injury Law team can provide personalized guidance and advocacy to protect your rights and achieve the best outcome. Trust a lawyer to effectively handle traffic violations and safeguard your legal rights. Schedule a free consultation today!