Despite the known risks associated with distracted driving, many people still use their cell phones while behind the wheel. According to the Centers for Disease Control, an estimated nine Americans are killed every day in accidents that reportedly involve a distracted motorist.
With the disturbingly high number of distracted driving accidents, it’s important to understand the laws surrounding cell phone use while driving. Many states have passed laws banning the use of handheld devices while behind the wheel, but what about using your cell phone at a red light?
If you were involved in a distracted driving accident, consider contacting a skilled lawyer to explore your options for recovering damages. The distracted driving accident lawyer at Cameron Law can help you determine your options for compensation if you were involved in a collision involving a distracted driver or if the other driver claims that you were distracted at the time of the crash.
The Dangers of Using Your Cell Phone While Driving
Using a cell phone while driving has been linked to decreased reaction times, slower response times, and poorer lane control. It may take longer to react when a driver is talking on a cell phone than when they are not distracted. This means that drivers who use their cell phones while driving are more likely to get into an accident due to their delayed reactions.
The dangers of texting and driving are even greater than those associated with talking on a cell phone while driving. Texting requires visual, manual, and cognitive attention—all three of which can be extremely distracting for drivers. For this reason, many states have banned the use of any type of electronic device (including cell phones) for all drivers or those under a certain age.
The Basics of Distracted Driving Laws in Nevada
Nevada has strict distracted driving laws, including a ban on texting or talking on a cell phone while behind the wheel. This applies to handheld devices. However, there is an exception for using cell phones with an accessory that allows hands-free communication.
There are also other exceptions to Nevada’s distracted driving law. Namely, if you are using your cell phone in an emergency situation (calling 911) or if you need to make a call related to your job (for emergency personnel, firefighters, and law enforcement officers). In these cases, you can legally talk on your phone while behind the wheel without fear of being pulled over by law enforcement. However, even with these exceptions, it’s always best practice to pull over first before using your phone so that you can remain focused on driving safely.
Can You Use Your Cell Phone at a Red Light in Nevada?
The short answer is no. The law states that drivers are not allowed to use their phones for any purpose while their vehicle is in motion, including when stopped at red lights or stop signs. This includes talking on the phone or sending text messages as well as checking email, surfing the web, and playing games.
