Traffic Laws and Safety

Motorists passing a bicycle must move into an adjacent lane to the left, if possible. If not, the motorist must pass with at least three feet of space between the vehicle and the bicycle. (NRS 484B.270)

Motorists may be charged with reckless driving if they are at-fault in any collision with a bicyclist or a pedestrian. Penalties include a driver license suspension. (NRS 484B.280)

When bicycles are ridden with other traffic, cyclists must obey the same rules and regulations as other types of vehicles. The safe interaction between bicyclists and motorists is the responsibility of both parties.

Motorists are not allowed to intentionally interfere with the movement of a person lawfully operating a bicycle; bicyclists may not intentionally interfere with the movement of a motor vehicle.

  • At intersections, motorists must yield to cyclists as they would for other vehicles and pedestrians.
  • When passing a cyclist, motorists must move into an adjacent lane to the left if possible. If not, the motorist must pass with at least 3 feet of clearance. Motorists are allowed to cross the center lane of the highway if is safe to do so.
  • Motorists must yield the right-of-way to a cyclist on a bicycle path or in a bike lane.
  • Motorists may not stop, park or drive on a designated bicycle path or lane unless they are entering or leaving an alley or driveway, performing official duties, directed by a police officer, or an emergency situation exists.
  • A cyclist is required to ride on the right side of the roadway.
  • Cyclists ride in a traffic lane, staying to the far right as practicable unless preparing to turn or overtake another vehicle.
  • Cyclists must obey all traffic signs and signals and use hand signals to let others know what they plan to do.
  • Inexperienced riders, especially children, require special courtesy and care. They may not always follow traffic rules. Be especially careful around these riders and expect the unexpected.

Cyclists Should:

  • Obey the law.
  • Wear a helmet.
  • Wear brightly colored clothing.
  • Keep bikes in good repair.

Cyclists Should Not:

  • Ride on the wrong side of the road.
  • Wear a headset when riding.
  • Ride at night without required lights and reflectors.

Bicycles Ridden at Night Must Have:

  • A white lamp in the front visible from at least 500 feet away.
  • A red tail reflector visible in a vehicle’s low beams from 300 feet away.
  • Reflective material on the sides of the bike visible in low beams from at least 600 feet away or a lamp visible from both sides from 500 feet away.

Visit Bicycle Nevada for more information.

This post was last modified on November 28, 2024 3:54 pm