Even with proper safety precautions—such as wearing a helmet, ensuring your headlight is on and keeping a watchful eye on the road—the dangers of a motorcycle accident threatens the safety of motorcyclists anytime they hit the road. Inattentive drivers might fail to notice motorcyclists in time, which can result in serious (and potentially life-threatening injuries) to those involved.
At Cap & Kudler, our personal injury attorneys have decades of experience representing victims of motorcycle accidents in the Las Vegas, NV area. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or suffered a wrongful death due to a motorcycle accident, our seasoned attorneys are here to help you build your case, fight for your rights and see that you are justly compensated for your injuries and medical expenses.
What are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes in Nevada?
There are many reasons why an accident between a motorcyclist and a driver may occur on the road, including:
- Failing to yield the right of way at an intersection;
- Distracted driving;
- Unreasonable speed;
- Failure to check blind spots for motorcycles in neighboring lanes; and
- Unsafe road conditions, such as potholes or debris in the road.
Motorcyclists are frequently the victims of careless or reckless behavior by other drivers. Because of the sheer difference in weight and size between an automobile and a motorcycle, accidents and collisions between the two different types of vehicles typically result in severe injuries (and even death) to the motorcyclist involved.
Nevada Motorcycle Accident Statistics
- In 2017, there were 54 motorcycle fatalities across the state of Nevada, a 22 percent decrease from 2016.
- Of these 54 fatalities, 44 motorcyclists were helmeted, 8 were un-helmeted and 2 were unknown.
- 76 percent of Nevada motorcycle accidents result in injury.
- Nevada saw a 6 percent increase in overall traffic fatalities between 2017 and 2018.
- More than 3000 auto accidents occur in Nevada each year due to inattention or carelessness behind the wheel. In the case of motorcycle accidents, it can be a matter of simply driving too fast or losing focus due to fatigue or distraction.
Nevada Motorcycle Laws
Because motorcycle accidents can lead to traumatic injuries, the state of Nevada has implemented additional laws concerning the operation of motorcycles in the state. All motorcyclists are required to obey all traffic laws in the state just like passenger vehicles. However, the following laws also apply to the operation of a motorcycle:
- Motorcycle drivers are required to have a Class M Driver’s license issued by the state of Nevada to operate a motorcycle of any size.
- Motorcycle drivers and their passengers are required to wear helmets at all times when the vehicle is in operation.
- Motorcycle drivers and their passengers are required to wear protective eye wear or face shields unless the motorcycle is equipped with a windshield.
- Motorcycles may not share a lane with another motorcycle or other type of vehicle.
- Motorcycles may not skip through traffic by riding in-between lanes when traffic is stopped.
- Motorcycles must be equipped with at least one headlight. Motorcycles may not have more than two headlights in place.
- Motorcycle lights must be large enough to be seen from a distance of 500 feet.
- Motorcycle brake lights must be bright enough to be seen from a distance of 300 feet.
- Motorcycles must have a rear reflector.
- All motorcycles must have working front and back brakes.
- Every motorcycle manufactured after 1973 must have electric working turn signals on the front and back of the vehicle.
- Motorcycles must be equipped with side view mirrors on both sides of the bike.
- Motorcycles must have fenders over the rear and front wheels.
- Every motorcycle must have a horn and a muffler system.
In addition to these safety laws, it is important for drivers of motorcycles and all passenger vehicles to respect the rules of the road. By taking the time to drive carefully around each other, many motorcycle accidents can be avoided.
How We Can Help
With years of experience representing motorcycle accident plaintiffs, we have come to know how traumatizing a motorcycle accident can be for a victim and their family. Between major injury, costly medical bills and lasting trauma in accident victims, a single accident can have an impact that lasts a lifetime.
When you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, retaining an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is highly recommended before making any kind of statement or settlement. At Cap & Kudler, our success is defined by representing and winning cases on behalf of our clients with respect to their needs.
Cap & Kudler is dedicated to putting in the legwork with the courts and insurance providers so that you can focus on rest during this stressful time. Contact us for a free case evaluation, and to learn more about seeking compensation for your motorcycle accident claim today.
