Nevada Move Over Law

Nevada's Move Over Law NRS 484B.607 Explained

Nevada's Move Over Law, outlined in Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 484B.607, is a Nevada law that is meant to protect emergency vehicles, construction vehicles, stopped vehicles, and government vehicles that are stopped on the side of the road.

The Nevada Move Over Law helps prevent traffic incidents by requiring drivers to take specific actions when approaching a stopped vehicle, especially those with flashing emergency lights that meet the requirements of NRS 484D.185.

What Is the Nevada Move Over Law

When approaching a traffic incident where there are emergency responders or roadside workers, you must take the necessary steps to protect those on the road and comply with the law.

The Nevada Move Over Law requires drivers to:

• Move Over: If you are on a multi-lane road and traffic conditions allow you to do so, you must switch lanes into the furthest adjacent lane.
• Slow Down: When approaching flashing lights or a construction vehicle on the side of the road, you must slow down and drive below the posted speed limit.
• Stay Alert and Prepare to Stop: When coming near an authorized vehicle with non-flashing blue lights or flashing amber or emergency lights, you must be prepared to come to a stop and listen to any orders given by a law enforcement officer.

Failure to follow the Nevada Move Over Law when near an authorized emergency vehicle, stalled vehicle, or utility vehicle on the side of the road could result in you receiving fines and penalties.

What Vehicles Do You Have to Move Over for in Nevada

Under Nevada's Move Over Law (NRS 484B.607), you must take action for:

• Law enforcement vehicles in emergency situations with lights on
• Tow car displaying flashing amber lights
• Public utility vehicle such as a Department of Transportation vehicle
• Highway maintenance or construction vehicles in an active work zone

In addition, it's important to understand that in certain situations where there is a crash scene or stalled vehicle that is a significant traffic hazard, you must follow the Move Over Law.

Penalties for Breaking the Nevada Move Over Law

Failure to adhere to Nevada's Move Over Law will result in a moving violation, which can result in:

• Fines: The most common punishment for a Move Over Law violation is a fine up to $250, which can increase with repeat offenses.
• Demerit Points: For every violation, a demerit point may be added to your driving record, and if you get 12 or more license points within a year, your driver's license may be suspended.
• Violation Resulting in Injuries: If a driver fails to follow the Move Over Law and this results in a traffic incident, such as a car accident, the driver may face a reckless driving charge, which could result in jail time.

To avoid these penalties, it's crucial to change lanes and slow down when approaching stalled vehicles or emergency vehicles.

What Are the Defenses Against the Move Over Law

If you are cited for breaking the Nevada Move Over Law there are defenses you can take to beat the ticket.

Safety Concerns

One of the strongest defenses against a Move Over violation is that there was no safe option to change lane.

You can argue that by changing lanes you may have increased the chances of another traffic incident.

No Warning

When approaching a motor vehicle accident or emergency scene drivers must be give sufficient warning, and if there was poor visibility or unclear flashing lights you may be able to argue the citation.

Contact a Las Vegas Car Accident Attorney Today

Traffic incidents occur every day in Las Vegas and result in severe injuries and damages, causing permanent damage to families.

If you or a loved one was injured in a traffic incident, contact one of our experienced personal injury attorneys at the Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm today. With over 20+ years of experience, our attorney will obtain the financial compensation you're entitled to.

Call (702) 566-3600 today for a free consultation. 

Discover More

Can You Bring Your Dogs To The Las Vegas Strip What Are the Nevada Car Seat Laws? How To Dispute A False Insurance Claim