Battle Born Injury Lawyers | March 14, 2025 | Personal Injury
Las Vegas is famous for its nightclubs, and law enforcement is well aware that many tourists come to the city to party. Given the massive amount of people enjoying the city’s attractions, law enforcement agencies often set up DUI checkpoints to deter impaired driving and catch those breaking the law. It is essential to understand your rights before getting behind the wheel in Las Vegas, Nevada.
In a city that has 24/7 access to bars and dispensaries, it is no surprise that DUIs are common. While you should not drive under the influence to avoid car accidents, it is helpful to understand the laws surrounding Las Vegas DUI checkpoints.
Are DUI Checkpoints Legal in Las Vegas?
Yes, DUI checkpoints are legal in Las Vegas and throughout Nevada. State law permits law enforcement agencies to establish sobriety checkpoints as a proactive measure to identify and deter impaired drivers. These checkpoints are designed to enhance public safety by reducing the number of alcohol- and drug-related accidents on the road.
However, DUI checkpoints must adhere to strict legal guidelines to ensure they comply with constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures. Officers cannot stop vehicles arbitrarily; instead, they must follow a predetermined, neutral pattern when selecting which drivers to check. Additionally, law enforcement agencies are required to provide advance public notice of checkpoint locations, and stops should be brief unless there is reasonable suspicion of impairment. If you need help, contact our Las Vegas DUI accident lawyers.
What to Expect at a DUI Checkpoint?
DUI checkpoints in Las Vegas are straightforward. Drivers can expect:
- Traffic diversions: Officers may direct vehicles to a specific lane
- Brief stops: Officers will ask for your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance.
- Observation: Officers look for signs of impairment, such as slurred speech, the smell of alcohol or substances in plain view, and other signs of intoxication.
If officers suspect impairment, they can request field sobriety tests (FSTs) or a breathalyzer test.
Can Drivers Refuse Sobriety Tests at Las Vegas DUI Checkpoints?
Nevada has implied consent laws. This means that individuals lawfully arrested for DUI must take a chemical test. The test can be breath, blood, or urine, but an outright refusal can lead to an automatic license suspension. However, it is important to remember that individuals may refuse Field Sobriety Tests before an arrest. This means not all impaired drivers get caught. This means additional danger on Las Vegas roads.
How a Las Vegas Attorney Can Help
Anyone hurt in Las Vegas by a drunk driver should consider hiring an experienced attorney. The right lawyer can:
- Investigate the circumstances of the incident to determine liability.
- Gather crucial evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Advise you on your legal rights and the best course of action for your case.
If the case goes to trial, your attorney has the resources to present the best case for you.
Statute of Limitations in Nevada
For personal injury claims, individuals have two years after an injury to file a claim. However, Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means an injured party may receive compensation if they are less than 51% at fault for the accident. However, total recovery is reduced based on the percentage of fault.
For example, if someone gives a friend excessive alcohol, they share fault. If they bully their friend into driving after, a court may bar recovery.
Contact the Las Vegas DUI Accident Attorneys at Battle Born Injury Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one were injured in an accident in Las Vegas and you need legal assistance, contact our DUI accident attorneys at Battle Born Injury Lawyers and schedule a free consultation with our legal team.
Battle Born Injury Lawyers – Downtown 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
