A car crash can be extremely traumatic for the people involved in it. Even if there is no major injury to any individual, the legalities surrounding the accident can cause a lot of stress. If you have been involved in a car accident in Las Vegas, you need to make some smart choices to comply with the law and ensure your safety.
It can be challenging to navigate the legal complexities of a car accident in Las Vegas on your own. It is wiser to hire a car accident lawyer in Las Vegas who is well aware of the auto accident laws in Nevada and can help you receive compensation for your injuries and losses. But first, you need to take the following steps after the accident to make things easier for your lawyer.
- Remain at the Scene
Always stop your vehicle after an accident and assess the situation. It is a crime in Nevada to flee the scene of an accident.
- Check for Injuries
Check for signs of injury. Call 911 and request an ambulance for each injured person. You should not claim to be uninjured or downplay your injuries. In situations like a car crash, your body experiences an adrenaline rush, which may mask the pain caused by the accident. It is better to contact a medical professional to assess your injuries.
- Move the Vehicle to a Safe Location
Nevada law requires motorists involved in a crash to reduce the risk of future damages to a possible extent. This includes moving your vehicle out of traffic or to a safer location near the scene or crash if the vehicle is in operational condition. If you are injured, do not move the vehicle yourself.
- Contact Police
After moving to a safe location, report the crash to the police. Answer your questions asked by the investigating office factually and honestly to the best of your knowledge and ability. Ask the office if he/she will file a report with the Nevada DMV directly or if you need to do it yourself. Under no circumstances should you admit fault or apologize. This can be used against you.
- Exchange Information
Exchange insurance information with the other driver involved in the accident. Even if one (or both) of you do not have insurance, exchange sufficient details to contact each other. Uninsured drivers can collect damages from the at-fault driver.
- Take Photos of the Scene and Vehicles
Capture the minute details of the scene and each vehicle involved in the accident. This may help you with your case while claiming insurance or other compensation.
- Get Witness Details
If there are witnesses to the incident, get their contact information (name and contact details). Testimonies from witnesses hold immense value if a case goes to court.
- Notify the Insurance Company
If you have vehicle insurance, you are expected to inform the insurance company about the potential claim within a certain period of time following the incident.
Seek Legal Advice from Your Attorney
As mentioned, you should not admit your fault or apologize for the accident, even if it was your fault. Your insurer may also ask you to agree to a settlement and make a recorded statement. Do not agree to any of those until you have spoken to your car accident lawyer. In a traumatic experience like a car crash, it can be difficult to keep yourself calm. But if you can take the aforementioned steps, your lawyer may just be able to get you fully compensated for your injuries and losses.
