Car accidents happen all the time, especially in big cities like Las Vegas. Whether you're involved in a minor fender bender or a serious collision, you should know your legal rights and responsibilities. For instance, fatal accidents must be reported in Las Vegas to the relevant authorities immediately. Keep reading to learn more about what to do after an accident, how to handle legal matters, and when to seek professional help.
What Should You Do Immediately After an Accident?
The first thing you should do after being involved in an accident in Las Vegas is to check for injuries. If you or anyone in your car is hurt, then you should call 911 immediately. Even if the injuries appear minor, it's better to have professionals check them out because some injuries may not be visible immediately but could worsen over time.
After making sure that everyone is okay, the next thing you should do is move to a secure spot to avoid blocking traffic or causing more accidents. You should turn your hazard lights on to show other drivers that your vehicle is stationary. Don't leave the scene, even in a minor accident. Doing so can land you in trouble with the authorities, especially when people involved have injuries.
Once you've addressed immediate safety concerns, you want to exchange information with the other driver. This includes sharing:
- Names and contact information
- Driver's license numbers
- Insurance details
Additionally, you should take photos or videos of the accident scene. These will serve as evidence when working with insurance companies or in legal disputes.
Understanding Nevada's Fault Rules
Nevada follows an at-fault insurance system for car accidents. This means the driver who is determined to be at fault for causing the accident is financially responsible for covering the resulting damages. If you're partially at fault, you can still recover damages, but the amount will be reduced based on your percentage of fault.
For example, you are in an accident that resulted in damages worth $10,000, but you're found to be 20% at fault. Under Nevada law, you'd still be able to recover 80% of your damages, which would be $8,000.
How to File a Police Report in Las Vegas
Filing a police report in Las Vegas is quite easy. Here's how you can do it:
Filing a Report With the LVMPD
If you want to report a non-emergency car accident, you can use any of the following options:
- By Phone: Call the LVMPD (Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department) non-emergency number at (702) 828-3111 to report the incident.
- Online Reporting: You can also visit the LVMPD website and head to the "Online Services" section under "Filing a Report."
How to File a Police Report in North Las Vegas
The process is slightly different in North Las Vegas, as it's managed by the North Las Vegas Police Department (NLVPD).:
- By Phone: You can contact the NLVPD non-emergency number at (702) 633-9111 to report non-urgent accidents.
- In Person: You can file a report directly at the NLVPD headquarters, located at 2332 Las Vegas Blvd. North, North Las Vegas, NV 89030
Note: The NLVPD currently does not allow online reporting for car accidents, so you'll need to report in person or by phone.
Once you've filed your report, the respective department will let you know how long it will take to process. Typically, it can take about 10 days for the report to be ready.
What Information Do You Need to File a Car Accident Police Report?
When filing a police report after a car accident, you'll need to provide accurate and detailed information. Here's a breakdown of what to include:
- Details of the Vehicle
- Accident Location
- A description of the accident
- Contact Information
- Injuries and Property Damage
- Witness Information
How Long Do You Have to File a Police Report After an Accident?
In Nevada, if you're in a car accident that involves injury, death, or property damage over $750, you're required to report it. If the police didn't come to the scene to investigate, you'll need to file a Report of Accident Form (SR-1) with the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days.
How Should You Deal With Insurance Companies?Â
You need to notify your insurance company immediately after an accident. Make sure that you're honest but also cautious when speaking with them. Always tell the truth and avoid making statements like "I'm sorry" or "It was my fault," as these could be used against you.
Consult an Experienced Attorney
Dealing with the consequences of a car accident in Las Vegas can be overwhelming. However, the process gets much easier when you know the legal requirements. Remember, you don't have to push through the process by yourself. You can always consult an attorney to guide you through it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
How common are car accidents in Las Vegas?
Car accidents are quite common in Las Vegas. According to reports, the city experiences thousands of accidents annually, ranging from minor fender benders to severe collisions.
Can I still get compensation if I was partially at fault in the accident?
Yes, Nevada follows a comparative fault system. You can still receive compensation if you're partially at fault, but your payout will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
Can I sue for a car accident in Las Vegas?
Yes, if you're injured in a car accident due to another driver's negligence, you may have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit.
What types of damages can I claim in a car accident in Las Vegas?
You can claim both economic and non-economic damages.
Do I need to file a police report after a car accident in Las Vegas?
Yes, if the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage over $750, you must file a report.
When should I hire a lawyer after a car accident in Las Vegas?
You should consider hiring a lawyer if any of the following apply to you:
- You suffer significant injuries.
- There's a dispute about fault.
- Your insurance claim is denied.
- The settlement offer seems too low.
