Nevada is relatively safe for bikers today. The state has the 14th highest motorcycle fatality rate in the U.S., according to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Compared to roadways in states with similar motorcycle traffic, this makes Nevada particularly safe.
Working to Make the Roads Safer for Bikers
Because of the number of bikers who travel through Las Vegas and other areas of Nevada, the state has tried to make the roads safer for motorcyclists by putting various requirements in place.
In 1972, the state introduced a universal helmet law that’s still enforced today. Additionally, Nevada requires bikers to wear eye protection gear if their vehicle doesn’t have a windshield. Nevada also prohibits bikers from splitting lanes. Motorcyclists often practice lane-splitting to maneuver through traffic. This puts them at significant risk of serious injury.
When it comes to motorcycle maintenance, the state has made regular inspection, registration, and proper training mandatory.
What Bikers Can Do to Remain Safe on Las Vegas Roads
Bikers are considerably more vulnerable to injury than others on the road, with minimal protective gear to keep them safe. However, there are certain steps they can take to reduce the risk of a vehicle accident and injuries.
These steps include:
Wearing a Helmet at All Times While Riding
Nevada’s helmet law requires every motorcycle rider to wear a helmet that meets U.S. Department of Transportation standards. Bikers can identify these helmets by the painted “DOT” label or a sticker located on the back of the helmet.
Keeping Drivers Aware of Bikers with High-Visibility Gear
Drivers often get into accidents with bikers because they fail to see them. This frequently occurs while changing lanes or when drivers make left turns into bikers. Although drivers have a responsibility of staying aware, bikers can increase awareness by wearing high-visibility gear, including reflective gear and bright colors.
Never Riding While Impaired
Another leading cause of motorcycle accidents and fatalities is impaired riding, which could entail driving with a blood alcohol content of over 0.08 or THC in the rider’s system. Riders should always be sober when on the road and take breaks if experiencing fatigue, which can be as hazardous as impaired driving.
Nevada remains one of the safest states for bikers, but part of what makes this true is bikers’ respect for the state’s laws and standards.
