Reporting an Auto Accident in Las Vegas, Nevada
Being in a car accident can be stressful and confusing. Nevada law requires drivers to take certain steps after a crash, including reporting an auto accident in Nevada under specific circumstances.
If a traffic crash results in bodily injury, death, or significant property damage, drivers must file an accident report with a local law enforcement agency or the Nevada DMV. This helps protect every person involved and creates an official record that may be used later when dealing with an insurance company or seeking compensation. Filing a police report also ensures that details about the vehicle involved, injuries, and other parties are properly documented.
At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we help Nevada drivers in Las Vegas and across the state understand these reporting requirements. Our attorneys guide clients through car accident cases, from filing accident reports to pursuing an insurance claim, so they can focus on recovery while we handle the legal process.
How THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys Can Help With Reporting an Auto Accident in Nevada
If you have been in a traffic crash, you may feel unsure about who to contact or how to file an accident report. Our team guides injured people through every step of the process. This includes:
- Gathering evidence from the crash scene
- Making sure the accident report is filed with the local law enforcement agency or the Nevada DMV when required
- Handling communication with the insurance company.
Car accident cases often involve medical bills, property damage, and disputes with insurance companies. Having support means you can focus on recovery while we work to secure fair coverage and help you seek compensation. We offer a free consultation to help you understand your rights under Nevada law and make informed decisions about your claim.
When Do You Need to Report a Car Accident in Nevada?
Under Nevada law, drivers must report an auto accident if it results in bodily injury, death, or property damage of more than $750. In many situations, the police arrive at the crash scene and file a crash report. If no police officer responds, the driver is required to file a report with the Nevada DMV as soon as possible.
Failing to file when the law requires it can lead to license suspension and other penalties. Reporting protects not only the person involved but also other parties who may have claims related to injuries, property damage, or liability insurance coverage.
Steps to Take After a Car Crash in Nevada
After a crash involving damage or injuries, Nevada drivers should take several important steps:
- Move to a Safe Location: If possible, move the driver’s vehicle out of traffic.
- Render Aid: Nevada law requires drivers to provide reasonable help to any person injured. This can include calling for medical attention or helping someone reach safety.
- Contact Local Law Enforcement Agency: A police officer will document the scene, prepare a police report, and record details about each vehicle involved.
- Exchange Information: Share names, driver’s license numbers, insurance details, and contact information with other parties.
- Gathering Evidence: Take photos of the crash scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Witness statements are also useful.
- File an Accident Report: If a police report was not completed, you must file with the Nevada DMV.
By following these steps, drivers protect their rights and build stronger car accident cases if an insurance claim or lawsuit becomes necessary.
Filing an Accident Report With the Nevada DMV
If no officer files a crash report, drivers must file their own report with the Nevada DMV. This applies to any crash resulting in injuries, death, or property damage above $750. The report should include details about each driver, the driver’s employer if the vehicle involved is commercial, and the circumstances of the traffic crash.
Failing to file a required report can result in the suspension of your license. Filing is generally advisable even for minor accidents, as it creates official documentation that may help in future disputes with an insurance company.
Insurance Company Requirements and Claims Process
Most Nevada drivers carry liability insurance, which covers injuries and property damage caused to other parties. After an auto accident, you must notify your insurance company as soon as possible. They may request the accident report or crash report filed by the police.
When injuries or significant property damage occur, insurance adjusters evaluate the claim. They may dispute fault, the cost of medical expenses, or the amount of property damage. That is where legal representation can make a difference. With support, you can recover damages for medical bills, lost income, and other costs.
Filing an insurance claim promptly is important, but it is equally important to avoid giving recorded statements without advice. Insurance companies often aim to reduce payouts, and you want to protect your rights from the beginning.
Common Injuries and Expenses in Car Accident Cases
Car crashes in Nevada often lead to medical attention and costly bills. Injuries range from minor cuts and bruises to serious harm, such as:
- Broken bones
- Head trauma
- Spinal cord injuries
Even when symptoms seem small, medical bills and ongoing treatment can add up quickly. Expenses in auto accident cases may include:
- Emergency room treatment and follow-up care
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation
- Lost wages from time away from work
- Property damage to the driver’s vehicle
- Long-term medical expenses for severe injuries
Our firm helps clients recover compensation for these costs so they are not left paying out-of-pocket for an accident caused by another driver.
Legal Consequences of Not Reporting an Auto Accident
Failing to report an accident when required can lead to serious consequences under Nevada law. Leaving the scene of a crash resulting in injuries or death can be charged as a category B felony, with possible prison time. Even when no one is injured, failing to report can cause license suspension or fines.
Drivers must also stop and exchange information if they strike an unattended vehicle. A written note with the other driver’s contact details must be left if they cannot be located. By following the law, drivers protect themselves from criminal charges and civil liability.
Importance of Gathering Evidence After a Nevada Car Accident
Evidence plays an important role in car accident cases. Photos, witness accounts, and the accident report can help establish fault and prove damages. If one driver claims they were not at fault, strong evidence can make the difference in recovering damages.
For example, a police report may describe the scene, note traffic violations, and record statements from each person involved. Photos of the crash scene and injuries support claims for compensation. Without this documentation, disputes with insurance companies become harder to resolve.
Call THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys to Protect Your Rights After a Car Accident in Nevada
Reporting an auto accident in Nevada is more than a formality. It is a step that protects your rights and creates the records needed for an insurance claim or legal case. Whether the accident involves bodily injury, property damage, or a dispute with an insurance company, taking the right steps can help you recover damages and move forward.
At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we assist Nevada drivers in Las Vegas and throughout the state. If you have been in a car crash, call us at (702) 478-2266 for a free consultation. We will explain your options, help file the necessary reports, and work to seek compensation for your losses.
By acting immediately, you protect your health, your driver’s license, and your ability to recover compensation for medical bills, property damage, and other costs.