Negligence in Nevada
State-specific overview · Tort Law
Nevada applies pure comparative negligence, allowing recovery even if the plaintiff is 99% at fault.
How Nevada treats Negligence
Nevada permits plaintiffs to recover damages proportional to their degree of fault, meaning a plaintiff who is 90% responsible can still recover 10% of damages from a defendant. The state does not cap the plaintiff's negligence level. Nevada courts follow the Restatement (Second) of Torts framework for establishing negligence. The statute of limitations for negligence actions is generally two years from the date of injury.
The general definition of Negligence
Failure to exercise reasonable care that results in harm to another person.
Negligence is a legal concept in civil law (not criminal) that holds people responsible for careless behavior. To prove negligence, you must show four things: the defendant had a duty to be careful, they breached that duty, their breach caused your injury, and you suffered actual damages. Negligence doesn't require intent to harm—it's about failing to act as a reasonably careful person would in similar circumstances. Victims of negligence can sue for compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Read the full Negligence entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Nevada.