Teen drivers are a common sight on Nevada roads, but they are subject to a unique set of laws and regulations. These laws are designed to protect both the teen driver and other motorists on the road. In Nevada, the laws that apply to teen drivers are based on a system of graduated driver's licenses. This system was implemented in 1997 and has been updated several times since then. The goal of the GDL system is to reduce the number of accidents involving teen drivers by gradually introducing them to driving and increasing their driving privileges as they gain experience.
What Is the Process for a Teen to Become a Licensed Driver?
In Nevada, teen drivers can apply for an instruction permit at the age of 15 and a half. To obtain an instruction permit, the teen driver must pass a written test and a vision test. With an instruction permit, the teen driver can practice driving with a licensed adult in the car.
Once a teen driver has held an instruction permit for at least six months and has completed a driver's education course, they can apply for a restricted license. A restricted license allows the teen driver to drive without a licensed adult in the car but with certain restrictions, such as a curfew or passenger limit.
Lastly, once a teen driver has held a restricted license for at least six months and has completed 50 hours of supervised driving, they can apply for a full license. A full license allows the teen driver to drive without any restrictions.
Is there a Curfew or a Passenger Limit for Teen Drivers?
Teen drivers with a restricted license are subject to a curfew. They cannot drive between the hours of 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless they are driving to or from work, school, or a religious activity.
Teen drivers with a restricted license are also subject to a passenger limit. They cannot have more than one passenger under the age of 18 in the car unless they are driving with a licensed adult in the car.
What if My Teen Driver Is Involved in a Car Accident or Gets a Speeding Ticket?
Teenage years are often accompanied by newfound independence and the thrill of getting behind the wheel for the first time. However, this newfound freedom can also lead to car accidents and speeding tickets. As a parent, it's important to know what steps to take if your teen driver is involved in a car accident or receives a speeding ticket.
What to do if your teen driver is involved in a car accident:
1. Ensure safety: The first and foremost step is to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Encourage your teen to check for any injuries and call for medical assistance if needed.
2. Contact the police: Instruct your teen to call the police immediately to report the accident. This is crucial for insurance and legal purposes.
3. Gather information: Encourage your teen to collect the necessary information from the other parties involved in the accident, such as names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers.
4. Document the scene: Advise your teen to take photos of the accident scene, including damage to vehicles, skid marks, and any other relevant details. This can be helpful when filing insurance claims or during legal proceedings.
5. Notify your insurance company: As soon as possible, inform your insurance company about the accident and provide them with the necessary information.
6. Seek legal advice: Depending on the severity of the accident, it may be beneficial to consult with a personal injury attorney who can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system and insurance claims.
What to do if your teen driver receives a speeding ticket:
1. Discuss the incident: Sit down with your teen and discuss the importance of safe driving and the consequences of speeding. Make sure they understand the potential risks to their safety and others on the road.
2. Pay the fine: If the speeding ticket is legitimate, it's important to pay the fine promptly to avoid further penalties.
3. Consider traffic school: In some cases, attending traffic school can help reduce or eliminate points on your teen's driving record, which can help prevent increased insurance premiums.
4. Review your insurance policy: It's important to understand how a speeding ticket may affect your insurance rates. Speak with your insurance agent to discuss the potential impact and explore options for mitigating the increase in premiums.
5. Consult an attorney: If you believe the speeding ticket was unjust or if your teen has multiple infractions, it may be beneficial to consult with a traffic attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and potentially reduce the penalties.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
If you or your teen driver has been involved in a car accident, it's important to seek the advice of a qualified lawyer. A lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply to teen drivers in Nevada and can help you navigate the legal system.
A lawyer can also help you negotiate with insurance companies and can represent you in court if necessary. If you or your teen driver has been injured in a car accident, a lawyer can help you recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Teen drivers in Nevada are subject to a unique set of laws and regulations. These laws are designed to protect both the teen driver and other motorists on the road. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the laws that apply to teen drivers in Nevada and can help you navigate the legal system. If you or your teen driver has been involved in a car accident, call High Stakes Injury Law at (702) 444-3228 for a free case review/evaluation.