I was in a Car Accident, What Do I Do?
Being involved in a car accident can be overwhelming and stressful. Knowing what to do in the immediate aftermath and beyond can significantly affect the outcome of your situation. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the essential steps you should take following a car accident, along with key information about dealing with insurance, handling claims, and understanding your rights under Nevada law.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident
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Ensure Safety: Move to a safe area away from traffic if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and use road flares to warn other vehicles to slow down.
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Check for Injuries: Check yourself and others for injuries. Do not move anyone injured unless necessary for safety.
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Call 911: Report the accident to the police, even if it is minor. A police report can be invaluable in documenting the scene and can be essential for filing insurance claims.
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Exchange Information: Get the names, phone numbers, addresses, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers, and basic insurance information from all drivers involved. If there are witnesses, get their contact information as well.
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Document the Scene: Take pictures of your vehicle from different angles, showing the damage done and the overall scene of the accident. It’s also helpful to take pictures of road signs, weather conditions, and any other factors that might have contributed to the accident. Collect contact information for the other driver(s) or any witnesses.
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Call Sgro & Roger at (702) 384-9800 for a consultation with our personal injury attorneys.
Insurance Dos and Don'ts
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Do report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
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Do review your insurance policy to understand what is covered.
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Do not admit fault or provide a statement to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting your lawyer. Your words can be used against you later.
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Do not sign any documents or agree to a settlement without consulting your lawyer.
Filing a Claim and Police Report
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Police Report: Always get a copy of the police report for your records, as it contains an objective view of the accident’s details and circumstances.
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Filing a Claim: Notify your insurer immediately following the accident. Take notes on who you talked to and when.
Understanding Auto Insurance Coverage
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Bodily Injury Liability Insurance: Covers the cost of medical expenses for bodily injuries to passengers in your vehicle or other vehicles if you cause an accident.
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UM/UIM Insurance: Uninsured Motorist (UM) and Underinsured Motorist (UIM) coverage protects you if you’re in an accident with an at-fault driver who doesn’t carry any or enough auto insurance to cover treatment for your injuries.
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Property Damage Insurance: Covers damage to someone else's property resulting from an accident for which you are at fault.
Handling Property Damage Claims
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Document all damage and gather estimates for repairs.
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If your vehicle is totaled, understand how your insurance company values your car.
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Negotiate with the insurance adjuster to get fair compensation for your vehicle.
Nevada's Minimum Insurance Requirements
Nevada requires all motor vehicle operators to have at least:
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$25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in any one accident.
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$50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons in any one accident.
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$20,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident.
Understanding Your Rights
Understanding these facets of post-accident procedures and your legal rights in Nevada can help ensure that you manage the aftermath of a car accident as smoothly as possible. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the process or if the compensation offered does not cover all your losses, it may be time to consult with a knowledgeable car accident attorney at [Law Firm Name] who can help guide you through the process and advocate on your behalf.