Is It Legal to Drive While Talking on a Phone in Nevada?

With the ever-increasing use of smartphones in our lives, it is no surprise that distracted driving has become a significant problem on the road.

While many drivers may not realize it, Nevada law prohibits a driver from engaging in certain activities while driving, particularly talking on a phone using a handheld device. If you were involved in an auto accident when the other driver was talking on the phone, that driver might be at fault for causing the accident because he/she was distracted.

Contact our Las Vegas distracted driving accident lawyer at Cameron Law to get the help you need in pursuing compensation for your losses and damages.

Is It Legal to Drive While Talking on a Phone Using a Hands-Free Device?

In Nevada, it is legal to use a hands-free device while driving a vehicle, according to the state’s Department of Motor Vehicles. Talking on the phone using a Bluetooth device or built-in speakerphone is allowed as long as the driver’s attention is on the road. However, if talking on the phone causes any distraction or affects the driver’s ability to drive, the driver can be charged with distracted driving.

Is It Legal to Drive While Talking on a Phone Using a Handheld Device?

In Nevada, it is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving a vehicle. A driver can be pulled over and fined if caught using a cell phone while holding it. It is also illegal to text while driving. Drivers can use their phones in case of an emergency. But, they must pull over and put the vehicle in park before making the call or sending a message.

Why Talking on a Phone While Driving Is Dangerous

There are several dangers associated with talking on a phone while operating a motor vehicle:

1. It Takes Your Attention off the Road

When you are on the phone, either handheld or hands-free, your focus is on the conversation, not the driving. Even if you are using a hands-free device, you can still be distracted when you talk on the phone while driving.

2. It Impairs Your Reaction Time

Talking on the phone while driving can also impact your reaction time. Drivers who talk on the phone have slower reaction times compared to when they aren’t on the phone.

3. It Causes Cognitive Distractions

Talking on the phone while driving can also cause cognitive distractions, which can impair your driving performance. Cognitive distractions are mental distractions that divert your attention away from driving and can include performing a mental task, such as a math problem or listening to music. Studies have shown that drivers who are using a phone while driving have slower reaction times and make more driving errors.

Distracted Driving Activities

Various activities can cause distracted driving. Apart from talking or texting on a cell phone, other distractions include eating, grooming, watching videos, or applying makeup. In other words, anything that diverts a driver’s focus from driving or causes them to be physically or mentally distracted is considered distracted driving.

The Lawyers at Cameron Law Can Help

While talking on a phone using a hands-free device is legal, it is illegal to use a handheld phone while driving in Nevada. Distracted driving is a severe issue that can cause significant injuries and even fatalities. If you or someone you love was involved in an accident caused by a distracted driver, contact Cameron Law to get help. Call 702-745-4545 to set up a free initial consultation.

Source:

dmv.nv.gov/pdfforms/qtdistracted.pdf