Steps to Take After a Commercial Vehicle Accident

If you find yourself in a car accident in Las Vegas, it’s important to know what to do immediately after the collision. In Nevada, after a car accident, you have a two-year window to file a legal claim. It’s crucial not to overlook this deadline, as it could mean the loss of the compensation rightfully due to you or your family. 

First, if the other driver was at fault, you have a legal right to seek compensation for the damages incurred. But here’s the catch: you must take the correct steps. Do not assume that everything will automatically resolve. 

Key Steps To Follow: 

1. Stay at the Scene:If someone is injured or killed in the accident, you must remain at the accident scene unless you require immediate emergency medical attention. Leaving the scene could get you into serious legal trouble, known as “Nevada hit-and-run,” which can result in penalties of up to 20 years in prison. 
2. Medical Attention: Sometimes, severe injuries may not be immediately apparent. Therefore, if you’re involved in a car accident in Las Vegas, it’s highly recommended that you seek a thorough medical evaluation, even if you don’t feel serious injuries at that moment. Untreated injuries can worsen over time or lead to later complications. 
3. Move Vehicles if Safe: If you’re in an accident, and the cars are blocking traffic, this can increase the risk of further injuries. First, if someone is seriously injured, it’s best to leave the cars where they are and wait for the police to arrive. 

If you can do so safely, move your car to the side of the road to clear the way. This helps prevent further accidents and keeps everyone safe. 

1. Check for Injuries: You must ensure that nobody is severely injured. Once you’ve confirmed that everyone is either fine or receiving medical attention, you can move on to the next step. 
2. Document Everything: Record or take photos of the other vehicle’s information. This includes the license plate, make model, and color of all vehicles involved in the accident. This information will be vital for future reports and claims. 

If it’s safe and possible, take photos of the accident scene and any damage to the vehicles. Photos serve as essential evidence. 

1. Gather Information: Additionally, make sure to obtain any other relevant information from the other drivers involved in the accident, such as names, phone numbers, and addresses. Also, take the names and numbers of any witnesses who may have observed the accident. These individuals can provide valuable information if any disputes arise. 

Another useful piece of information to obtain is the other car’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Typically, the VIN can be found on the other driver’s insurance card. If the other driver is uninsured or doesn’t have the card on hand, the VIN might be located on the driver’s side dashboard or inside the driver’s door. If the driver is uncooperative, do not attempt to obtain the vehicle’s VIN. 

1. Don’t Admit Fault: Important! Never, under any circumstances, admit fault, even if you feel like you might have had something to do with the accident. You might not have the complete story, or the other driver may share responsibility for the incident. 

Admitting fault or apologizing can be costly and may result in you paying for something that wasn’t entirely your fault, or it could even hinder your ability to get the car accident compensation you deserve. 

Remember, not admitting fault is a way to protect your interests and ensure that any future investigation determines responsibility fairly. Safety and prudence are paramount in these situations. 

1.  Report to DMV: If the accident resulted in bodily injuries, death, or total damages of $750 or more to any vehicle or property, you must report it to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles within ten days following the accident. 

Failing to do so could lead to the suspension of your driver’s license in Nevada for up to one year. 

1. Contact Insurance: Contact your insurance company if another driver was involved in the accident. Most insurers require accident reporting. Importantly, if the accident was not your fault, don’t worry, as an accident should not increase your rates. On the contrary, if you are at fault, early notification can help your insurer better defend your claim. 

In situations where there was no other driver involved, it typically involves a lawsuit. Reporting an accident is recommended in almost all cases, except for low-speed accidents with a single vehicle (like hitting a fence or the garage) where there are no injuries, and damages are close to your collision deductible. 

• Document Your Memories: As soon as possible, jot down everything you remember about the accident. This includes: 

• The time and date the accident occurred. 
• The cross streets and the direction each vehicle was traveling. 
• Your best estimate of the speed at which each driver was traveling. 
• Any adverse road conditions, such as rain, fog, or ice. 

1. Photograph Injuries: If you have cuts, bruises, or other visible injuries, take photos of them, or even better, ask a friend to take photos. The more evidence you have of your injuries, the better your chances of obtaining the compensation you truly deserve. 

Although you may feel you have no obvious injuries at the moment, avoid telling the other driver that you’re not hurt. This is because some soft tissue injuries may take days to fully manifest. If you say you’re fine at the time of the accident, you provide the other driver’s lawyer or insurance company with arguments to deny or reduce your claim if health issues arise later. 

However, it’s essential not to lie and say you’re injured if you’re not or if you’re unsure. Instead, keep your options open and wait a few days to see how you feel. If you experience any discomfort or pain later, seek medical attention if necessary. 

Your well-being and that of your family are the most important considerations

After a car accident, all information is essential for any legal or insurance process that may arise. Collaboration and proper documentation are fundamental aspects of resolving a car accident. 

Information and photos are crucial for future reports and claims. Safety and adequate documentation are key in these situations. 

Seeking a medical evaluation is important to ensure there are no hidden injuries that may worsen over time. 

Make sure to know your rights and act within the legal timeframe to seek the compensation you deserve. Do not hesitate to seek legal counsel if necessary, to protect your interests. Your safety and well-being are paramount. 

Phone: (702) 640-0958
Fax: (702) 665-5627

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