Can You Turn Right on Red in Nevada?

You’re sitting in the right lane at a red light, and you’re only a few blocks from your destination. You look around, and it seems like there’s no traffic coming. Are you able to turn right?

The answer is yes; you can turn right on red in Nevada. But there are a few restrictions in place to keep you, other motorists, and pedestrians safe in the process.

If you have been injured in a car accident involving an illegal right turn on red, it’s important to contact a Las Vegas car accident lawyer as soon as possible. Cloward Trial Lawyers can help you understand your legal rights and will fight for the compensation you deserve.

When Can You Turn Right on Red in Nevada?

Nevada law allows you to turn right on red after coming to a complete stop unless otherwise prohibited. Regardless of signs allowing turns, certain criteria must be met for you to legally and safely make a right turn on red. Before turning right, look for the following:

• You have fully stopped: Your vehicle must fully stop behind the crosswalk before turning right on red
• You are in the rightmost lane: According to NRS 484B.307,  vehicles on the extreme right lane of the intersection at a solid red light may proceed into the intersection for a right turn only.
• There are no pedestrians in the crosswalk: It is illegal to turn right on red if a pedestrian is in the crosswalk. Pedestrians have the right of way, even if the light is red for them.
• There’s no oncoming traffic: It is illegal to turn right on red if oncoming traffic is turning left. Turning right into oncoming traffic could cause a collision.
• There’s no sign prohibiting it:  In some intersections in Nevada, it is illegal to turn right on red, even after you have come to a complete stop. These intersections will have a sign saying, “No Right Turn on Red.” Always obey these signs and never turn right on red when a sign prohibits it.

Additional rules for right turn on red

It’s important to remember that all other laws involving traffic lights still apply to turning right on a red light, including the following:

Right-of-way laws: According to Nevada law NRS.484B.250, when approaching an intersection, you must yield the right-of-way to vehicles that have already entered the intersection. This is true even if the other driver is turning right. Additionally, you must always yield to pedestrians and oncoming traffic when turning right.

Red flashing or inoperative signals: Treat these intersections as if there is a stop sign. This means you must come to a complete stop before proceeding. Once stopped, you can proceed cautiously, but then must yield to vehicles that have already completed a stop or are within the intersection.

Overtaking a school bus: When a school bus activates it’s flashing red lights, you must stop your vehicle, even if you are turning right. This is the law in Nevada (NRS 484B.353) and nationwide. Failing to stop for a school bus can result in a fine of up to $500 for a first offense and a suspension of your driver’s license for multiple offenses.

If you are unsure whether it is legal to turn right on red at an intersection, it is always best to err on the side of caution and wait for the light to turn green.

Risks Involved With Turning Right on Red

Turning right on red is a common practice in many states. It can save time and gas and is a convenient way to make a turn. However, there are also some risks associated with turning right on red, including

• Collisions involving pedestrians and cyclists: Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable to being hit by cars turning right on red. It’s important to remember that pedestrians and cyclists always have the right of way. Vehicles turning right on red must yield to them before turning.
• Collisions involving oncoming traffic: If you are turning right on red, you must yield to oncoming traffic. If you do not yield, you could cause a head-on collision.
• Blind spots: When you are turning right on red, you have blind spots you cannot see. To avoid hitting anything in your blind spots, you should always turn your head to look all the way around before turning.

Tips for cyclists and pedestrians to reduce the risk of collision

Car accidents involving bicycles and pedestrians can be disastrous and oftentimes are fatal.

When entering an intersection where vehicles might be turning right on red.

• Be aware of your surroundings: Make sure you are aware of oncoming traffic, especially when crossing the street at an intersection where drivers turn right on red.
• Look both ways before crossing: This is especially important if you are crossing the street at an intersection where drivers turn right on red.
• Do not assume that drivers will see you: Drivers may not be looking for pedestrians or cyclists when they are turning right on red.
• Be prepared to stop: If you see a driver who is not stopping at a red light, be prepared to stop yourself to protect yourself from serious injury.

By following these tips, you can help reduce the risk of accidents and stay safe when crossing an intersection that allows right turns on red.

What Evidence Do I Need to Prove that The Driver Was at Fault?

In order to prove that the driver was at fault for your accident, you will need to gather evidence showing the driver made an illegal right turn on red. This evidence may include:

• Police reports
• Witness statements
• Photographs or videos of the accident scene
• Traffic camera footage
• Medical records
• Lost wage documentation

If you are injured in an accident caused by a driver who made an illegal right turn at a red traffic light, you may be entitled to recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. The amount of damages you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries and their impact on your life. Cloward Trial Lawyers has the necessary experience and care to represent you in court and fight for the compensation you deserve.