Las Vegas is one of the busiest, most active cities in the world, and not just the world-famous Las Vegas Strip. It’s a bustling city full of life, and with that kind of metropolis comes a great deal of car accidents. If you are involved in a car accident, you might be unsure of what steps to take. The attorneys at Easton & Easton can help you understand what to do after a car accident in Las Vegas.
Negligent Driving
Las Vegas may have more distractions than some other cities, but drivers have a responsibility to limit their distractions and focus on the road ahead for the sake of their safety and for the safety of others. Negligent driving behavior can result in terrible accidents or even death if drivers are not constantly careful and aware of their surroundings. Negligent driving behavior can include:
- Eating or drinking while behind the wheel
- Smoking or vaping behind the wheel
- Ignoring traffic lights and prominent road signs
- Texting while driving or talking on the phone (not hands-free)
- Engaging in reckless driving with blatant disregard for others’ safety
- Falling victim to road rage and threatening other drivers or pedestrians
- Glancing into the backseat to talk with other passengers
- Speeding
If you have been injured as a result of someone else engaging in any of these behaviors, you may be eligible to file for a personal injury claim and could seek compensation from the liable party.
Dealing with the fallout of a car accident and subsequent legal issues can be daunting and confusing. Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer can help you unravel the situation and pursue your next steps with someone who understands the ins and outs of the law.
What to Do After a Car Accident
In the immediate aftermath of a car accident, try your hardest not to panic. It is crucial that you follow certain steps to ensure your own safety and compliance with Nevada state law:
- Remain at the Scene: Once a crash has occurred, turn off your vehicle and stay put. It is illegal to flee the scene of an accident.
- Check for Injuries: Start looking over yourself for any obvious physical injuries (bruises, scrapes, cuts, etc.) Do you feel dizzy? Is your vision blurry? Is your hearing impaired? If you or someone else in the vehicle is seriously injured, call 911 and get an ambulance as soon as you can.
- If Possible, Move Your Car: If the accident isn’t that serious, and you are able to, move your vehicle to the side of the road so other drivers don’t make the situation worse. If there are serious injuries, wait for the ambulance and don’t try to move the vehicle.
- Notify Police: Once the situation has calmed down, call the police and make an accident report. You need to document the accident with the proper authorities so you can file an insurance claim later on. Do not admit fault.
- Exchange Insurance Information: Make sure you exchange your insurance details with the other party. If you do not have insurance, or if they don’t, give them your contact information anyway.
- Notify Your Insurance: Make sure you tell your insurance carrier that you have just been involved in a car accident.
- Get a Lawyer: Contact a car accident lawyer to get started on filing your insurance claim. Your lawyer can help you document the accident, talk to witnesses, assemble your documentation, and deal with the insurance companies.
FAQs
Q: What Should I Do If I Get Into a Car Accident in Nevada?
A: If you are involved in a car accident in Nevada, the very first thing you should do is not panic. Check yourself for injuries and if there are any serious ones, call an ambulance. If you are able, move your vehicle to the shoulder. Once you have notified the police about the accident, exchange insurance information with the other party, call your own insurance and let them know, then hire a lawyer for next steps.
Q: How Long Do You Have to Report an Accident in Las Vegas?
A: You have to report an accident in Las Vegas within 10 days of said accident, with few exceptions. Car accidents happen a lot on the streets of Las Vegas. It’s a very busy town. It is accepted that law enforcement may not be able to be present for every accident that occurs, so the DMV relies partially on the afflicted parties themselves to submit an accident report.
Q: How Long Does an Accident Stay on Your Insurance in Nevada?
A: A car accident in Nevada will stay on your insurance for at least three years. If you are found at fault in a car accident, your insurance costs will greatly increase. In Nevada, the average insurance rate post-car accident is around $2,400. A more serious car accident that results in a conviction could stay on your insurance record for up to 10 years.
Q: What Happens If You Leave the Scene of an Accident in Nevada?
A: If you leave the scene of an accident in Nevada after causing some property damage, you could be charged with a misdemeanor. It is illegal to leave the scene of an accident in Nevada. However, if you flee the scene after hitting a pedestrian or causing someone an injury or death, you can be charged with a felony. That felony charge could land you in prison for up to 15 years and net you a fine between $2,000 and $5,000, depending on the situation.
Contact the Car Accident Lawyer You Need Today
At Easton & Easton, we are determined to help you resolve your car accident claim. We can guide you through the process and help you receive the compensation you deserve. We have years of experience and have dedicated our family to helping your family with personal injury and car accident claims. Contact us as soon as you can to schedule a consultation if you believe you have grounds for a claim.
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