Who has the right of way? Not knowing the answer to this, in any traffic situation, can put you at risk as a driver. It also means that you could be facing a violation of your license. Understanding right-of-way traffic laws in Nevada is a big part of being able to navigate the challenging streets throughout the city. Though you probably learned them when getting your license, having a refresher now could help you.
You Should Know These Right-of-Way Traffic Laws
Many times, car accidents happen because people do not know the right-of-way laws in the state. The following are some of the most important laws you should know, as found in NRS § 484B.250.
- The first one in the intersection: When a driver is approaching an intersection, that driver must yield to any driver that is already in the intersection before moving forward.
- The right driver has the right-of-way: When two drivers travel in different lanes and come to an intersection at the same time, the driver on the right-hand side has the right to move forward.
- Continuing lane right-of-way: In situations where one car is in a lane that ends, and there is another vehicle traveling in a continuing lane, the driver in the vehicle that ends must allow for the other driver to move forward.
- ·Not working traffic signal: If the traffic signal at a stop is not working, each driver must treat it like a full stop sign. This means that the driver who reaches the intersection first and stops has the right of way. If two do so at the same time, the one on the right has the right-of-way.
What Happens When a Person Fails to Provide the Right-of-Way?
In situations where the right-of-way is not adhered to, there is an increased risk that a car accident can happen. When that occurs, the police who respond to the scene will try to determine what occurred and use the evidence available to determine who was at fault. The person who had the right-of-way is less likely to be at fault than the driver who does not.
As a result of this, you must take steps to document any instance related to your case. Proving you have the right-of-way can be challenging without video or photos of it. Witness statements can often help to provide some information. Other times, you have to rely on any evidence at the time as well as statements provided by all drivers. Ultimately, when it comes down to your word against the other, the police officer has to decide on fault.
Let Our Car Accident Attorneys Help You Prove Your Right to Compensation
If the other party violated right-of-way laws and that caused an accident, we encourage you not to settle your claim until you speak to our attorneys. At Bighorn Law, we always work closely with our clients to ensure they have the best information and insights to prove their case.