If you are caught running a red light in Nevada, you’ll likely face fines and other penalties. The cost of a red light ticket in Nevada can go beyond a traffic fine. A red light ticket could result in higher insurance premiums. 

If running a red light causes a car accident, you may also face civil liability for damages. As a driver, you are expected to understand and follow Nevada red light laws.

Understanding Nevada Red Light Laws

Nevada traffic laws are codified in Chapter 484B of the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS). Section 300 outlines the laws governing traffic signs, signals, and markings. Under NRS 484B.300, it is unlawful for a driver to disobey a traffic-control device unless directed to do so by a police officer. 

“Running a red light” occurs when a driver fails to stop and wait until they have a green light. In certain situations, drivers can turn right at a red light if there is no oncoming traffic. Turning right on red in those situations would not be considered unlawful. 

However, turning right on red when a sign is present stating “no turn on red” is considered running a red light.

What Is the Fine for a Red Light Ticket in Nevada?

The fine for a red light ticket in Nevada is typically $305. However, other factors can impact the total fine for running a red light. For example, running a red light in a school or work zone can result in a fine of between $710 and $1,000. 

The jurisdiction where the ticket is issued, your driving history, and whether you were involved in an accident are other factors that can impact the cost of a red light ticket in Nevada.

Other Costs of Red Light Tickets

A red light ticket results in four demerit points being added to your driving record. If a driver accumulates 12 points against their driving record, the state may temporarily suspend their driving privileges. Running a red light is not a simple traffic infraction. It is considered a misdemeanor. 

Many red light tickets do not result in jail time, but that is a possibility with a misdemeanor charge. Furthermore, your insurance premiums may increase because you ran a red light. Your driving record is a significant factor in determining the cost of your insurance coverage. 

Does Nevada Have Red Light Cameras?

Some states install red light cameras that can be used to issue traffic tickets for running red lights. However, Nevada does not allow red light cameras. Several attempts have been made to repeal the ban on red light cameras, but none have been passed as of the date of this blog.

How Can Paying a Red Light Ticket Impact a Car Accident Case?

Nevada is a fault-based state for car accident claims. If you prove that another driver caused your car accident, you may be entitled to compensation for economic and non-economic damages. 

Proving liability requires you to have evidence establishing negligence:

  • The other driver had a duty of care, such as following traffic laws governing red lights
  • The other driver failed in that duty of care, such as running a red light
  • The driver’s breach of care was the direct and proximate cause of your accident (i.e., the accident would not have occurred had the driver not run the red light)
  • You sustained injuries and damages because of the other driver’s breach of duty

Paying a red light ticket is considered admitting guilt. Therefore, another driver may argue that you admitted to running the red light by paying the traffic ticket. However, it is unwise to ignore a traffic ticket. 

Steps To Take After a Red Light Accident in Nevada

Try not to panic after an accident. Remaining calm allows you to think clearly and take steps to protect your rights. Steps to take after a red light accident include:

  • Call 911 to report the red light accident.
  • Check to see if anyone needs assistance.
  • Take photographs and make a video of the accident scene to preserve evidence.
  • Do not admit fault when discussing the accident with the officer. Instead, state the facts without making presumptions about fault.
  • Seek medical treatment for your injuries. Delays in medical care can make it more difficult to recover compensation for damages.

Prompt legal advice can significantly impact the outcome of an accident case. Take advantage of a free consultation with a Nevada personal injury lawyer to learn more about your options for filing a claim. 

Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer for Help

If you’ve been injured in a crash caused by a red light violation, you don’t have to navigate the aftermath alone. Contact our personal injury attorneys at Battle Born Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with a Nevada personal injury lawyer today to discuss your legal options and protect your right to compensation.

We proudly serve Clark County and its surrounding areas.

Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Downtown Las Vegas Office
400 S 4th St Suite 290,
Las Vegas, NV 89101
(702) 357-4868

Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
10789 W Twain Ave #100
Las Vegas, NV 89135
(702) 570-9000

Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Reno Office
675 W Moana Ln #206
Reno, NV 89509, USA
(775) 535-7768

Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
8540 S Eastern Ave #200
Henderson, NV 89123
(702) 500-0287