What Are the Consequences for Running a Red Light in Nevada?

As Nevada drivers, we all have a responsibility to adhere to the rules of the road. Traffic laws are in place to keep everyone safe – especially when it comes to red lights. But what happens when someone decides to run a red light in Nevada?

Running a red light increases the chances of an accident occurring, along with injury and death. Aside from the risks associated with running a red light, the state of Nevada imposes serious penalties on drivers who do not adhere to these traffic signals.

Nevada Laws on Red Lights

In order to lawfully operate your vehicle on Nevada roads, you have to adhere to traffic laws – including rules on red lights and stop signs. According to Nevada state law, you must come to a complete stop during a red light, either at a marked stop line or near a crosswalk.

When a green light turns into a yellow light, you must slow down and prepare for a red light. Some states prohibit this, however, Nevada is not one of them; you can still enter an intersection when the traffic signal is yellow.

There are special rules for turning on a red light. Like most states, it is legal to make a right turn on a red light in Nevada. However, you will need to pay attention to your surroundings. use caution, and follow right-of-way rules when performing a right-on-red turn. If there is a sign prohibiting a right turn on a red light, you cannot make the turn.

When it comes to turning left on a red light, you can only perform this turn under specific circumstances. If you are turning left on a red light from a one-way street onto another one-way street, you can safely make this turn. However, you will need to proceed with caution and follow the right-of-way.

It is illegal to enter an intersection after a traffic light turns red in Nevada, even if no one else is around. In addition, you cannot make turns on a red light in places where it is illegal to do so. These rules are in place to protect drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists alike.

Penalties for Running a Red Light in Nevada

If you run a red light on a Nevada road, you can receive a misdemeanor charge. The same penalties typically apply to stop sign violations as well. While the penalties for these charges differ from case to case, you could receive up to $1,000 in fines and six months in jail.

Normally, drivers do not face jail time for a red-light violation and will usually receive a fine based on the severity of the incident. The more damage, injury, or death that occurs, the higher the punishment will usually be. If the accident results in significant damage or a fatality, you could face a conviction for reckless driving or vehicular homicide.

You can also receive administrative punishments for a red-light violation. You could receive four demerit points on your driving record; if you receive more than 12 demerits within a year, the state can suspend your license for six months. You can reduce your demerits by taking a traffic safety course.

Can You Contest a Red-Light Ticket?

If you do receive a ticket for running a red light, you have the option to fight the charge. Typically, you will need to prove that you did not enter the intersection on a red light, usually through surveillance footage and other pieces of evidence. If you believe you received this ticket in error, contact an attorney who can assist you with this investigation.

All drivers need to know the fundamentals of traffic laws before they hit the road – especially when it comes to traffic lights. However, not all drivers adhere to a red light – which can lead to devastating consequences.

Red Light Accidents Resulting In Injuries

If you are the victim of a driver who ran a red light and caused an accident, you may be eligible for financial compensation through a lawsuit or insurance claim. Our car accident lawyers have offices in Henderson & Las Vegas. Call us now at (702) 748-7777 for a completely free consultation.