Traffic law violations are a leading cause of motorcycle crashes in Nevada. This is a list of Nevada’s motorcycle laws, which are intended to protect riders and the public and reduce injuries on the road.
Nevada Motorcycle Registration and Licensing
In order to legally ride a motorcycle in Nevada you will need a class M license. Aspiring motorcycle riders are required to first obtain a Nevada Driver’s License, or permit. This is the prerequisite for an endorsement. After passing a written test, and a test of riding skills, individuals can apply for a Class-M license. The written test measures your knowledge of motorcycle safety and laws, while the riding skills test is a practical evaluation. Riders can also enroll in the Nevada Motorcycle Safety Program, which will exempt them from taking the skills test if they pass.
Nevada Helmet Laws
Nevada has a universal law that mandates all riders and passengers wear helmets all the time. All helmets are required to be approved by U.S. Department of Transportation, as they have been thoroughly tested and offer the best level of protection.
Nevada Insurance Requirements
Before riding, motorcyclists are required to purchase insurance. Nevada law requires that motorcycle insurance be purchased at a minimum.
- Liability for bodily injury of up to $25,000 per person
- More than one person can be covered by $50,000 in bodily injury liability.
- Property Damage Liability of $20,000 per Accident
If you cause a collision, your liability insurance will not cover the costs. You can buy optional coverages, like collision insurance, that will cover the repair of your bike, regardless of fault.
Nevada Motorcycle Equipment Requirements
There are also other safety regulations that apply to motorcycles. Motorcycles must be equipped with the following:
- At least one headlight
- Front and rear brakes
- Electric turn signals are available (if they were manufactured after 1972).
- Each handlebar has a rearview mirror
- Horn
- Muffler
- Front and rear wheel fenders
- Footrests, for passengers too
- The rear reflector should be visible at 300 feet, and 20-60 inches high.
- The red taillight should be visible at least 500 feet away.
- The brake light should be visible at least from 300 feet away in daylight
Handlebars can’t extend more than six inches past the shoulders of a rider when seated.
Restriction for riders under 18
Nevada has specific rules for motorcyclists who are under 18. These restrictions aim to improve safety and promote responsible riding. Minors must obtain and maintain a motorcycle instruction license for at least 6 months. They must also document 50 hours of supervised driving experience on their DMV logbook. If there is no motorcycle safety course within 30 miles, then you may complete 50 additional hours of supervised driving experience. Minors who have a motorcycle permit are only allowed to ride in daylight and can’t carry passengers, drive on high-speed highways or freeways.
Riding Regulations
As with any vehicle on the road motorcycles must adhere to traffic laws. Motorcycle drivers are expected to obey all traffic regulations, including traffic signs, signals, and guidelines for right-of way. Also, lanesplitting is prohibited in Las Vegas. This involves riding a motorbike between lanes with slow-moving traffic or stopped vehicles.
Have you been injured?
Motorcyclists are entitled to be treated with respect by drivers of other vehicles. You have the right to sue another party if they are negligent and cause an accident that you were injured in. For legal advice, contact an experienced and trustworthy Las Vegas Motorcycle Injury Lawyer.
The first time Nevada Motorcycle Laws was published on Harris & Harris Injury Lawyers.