It is illegal to talk or text on a handheld cell phone or similar device while driving under legislation passed by the 2011 Nevada Legislature.

As of Jan. 1, 2012, fines of up to $250 are being imposed for any driver using a handheld phone or similar device to talk, read or type.

Not only is cell phone use while driving banned in Nevada, but you are four times more likely to crash when driving while talking on a cell phone. In fact, driving while talking or texting can delay your reaction time as much as driving legally drunk, even if it is by Bluetooth or other hands-free method.

There are more than 3,500 distraction-related crashes in Nevada every year, and more than 60 deaths in the past five years. Across the nation in 2009, nearly 5,500 people died and half a million were injured in crashes involving a distracted driver. The number is believed to represent only the tip of the iceberg because police reports cannot always document whether distraction was a factor in vehicle crashes.

     Don’t risk it- don’t drive while talking or texting! 

Additional Options to Limit Distractions 

∙ Before driving, secure your cellphone in a place such as the glove box where you will not be able or tempted to access it while driving.

∙ Make any necessary phone calls before or after driving. If you must make a call while driving, pull over to a safe area such as a parking lot before making or receiving a call or texting. Note: do not park directly off to the side of the road to make a call. This is not safe due to the proximity to moving traffic. 

∙ Seek out and install an application that blocks phone calls and texting while driving.  

∙ Do not call someone who you know is driving at the time.

∙ Remain focused on the road.Do not eat, apply makeup, reach across the vehicle for items or conduct any other distracting activities while driving.

∙ Ask a passenger to assist you with activities that may be distracting while you are driving, such as reading directions.