Nevada has a lot to offer residents and visitors—however, along with the glitz and glamour of Las Vegas and stunning desert scenery, the state is also home to some dangerous stretches of roads in the country. Unfortunately, this means highway accident fatalities are on the rise in Nevada, along with other types of car wrecks.

You may think you know what to do if you’re involved in a car accident, but Nevada has some strict laws regarding what you should do. Failure to know or understand these laws doesn’t give you a pass, and you can still face hefty fines and other penalties. Perhaps hiring personal injury attorneys will help you with legal matters and the things you need to be aware of.
If you’ve suffered injuries in an accident in Portland, it’s essential to seek advice from a trusted personal injury lawyer. A skilled personal injury lawyer portland can provide you with expert guidance and representation to help you obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
To help keep you informed, here’s a look at your obligations, along with the answers to some frequently asked questions.
Nevada Traffic Accident Laws
Before you get behind the wheel, you’ll need car insurance. Yes, it’s a legal requirement for all state-registered vehicles. No, you can’t get around the law by not registering your vehicle—this is also a legal requirement. If you need legal advice from an expert, contact a Woodbridge lawyer to assist you.
You don’t have to spring for full coverage, this is up to you; however, you do need liability insurance. Your insurance must cover at least $25,000 for personal injury or death of one vehicle occupant. The coverage must also include at least $50,000 for additional passengers and $20,000 for property damage.
Along with carrying valid liability insurance, there are five other legal requirements to follow if you’re involved in a car accident in Nevada.
- You must exchange contact and insurance information with the other driver. The only exception is when your injuries are severe enough to prevent following this and the other necessary steps.
- Move your vehicle out of traffic if possible. Try to move to the side of the road or ideally, a parking lot if both vehicles are able and one is located close by.
- Find out if anyone requires medical attention and render aid if possible.
- Notify the authorities of the car accident and if there are any injuries requiring medical attention.
- Report all accidents to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Sometimes, the responding police officers take care of this step, but it’s always best to double-check.
So, if you’re wondering if these obligations only apply to traffic accidents involving motor vehicles, the answer is no. If a motorcycle, bicyclist, or pedestrian is involved, the same rules also apply. If you leave the scene of the accident, it’s a Class B felony under Nevada law NRS 484E.010.
Common Questions About Car Accidents in Nevada
Okay, so you know it’s a felony to leave the scene of an accident. You’re also familiar with your five legal obligations, but chances are, you still have a few questions.
How Long Do I Have to Report A Car Wreck to the DMV?
You only have 10 days from the date of the accident to report it to the DMV, but t only applies if there are injuries, a fatality, or the responding police officer handled the report. The report submitted to the DMV must contain your contact and insurance information. Even if the report is already filled, you still only have ten days to submit the remaining information.
What happens if you don’t submit a report to the DMV? Potential penalties include losing your driver’s license for up to one year.
Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit If I’m the At-Fault Driver?
Nevada has a comparative negligence law that allows you to file a personal injury claim as long as you are only partially to blame for the accident. So in other words, you cannot be found to be more than 50% at fault.
Your claim is also limited to the amount of fault the court assigns you. For example, if you’re 30% at fault. Your judgment will be reduced by 30%.
Does Nevada Have a Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits?
Before answering this question, it’s important to note that deadlines for personal injury lawsuits and insurance claims are different. The deadline for filing with your insurance company varies depending on the company, so take the time to check your policy or talk to your insurance agent.
You have two years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim. If it’s a property damage lawsuit, you have three years to submit a claim. However, the sooner you file a claim, the better your chances are in court.
Don’t Go Through A Car Accident Case Alone
While you can handle settlements in your favor or against without legal representation, it’s rarely a good idea to go at the process alone.
To help ensure that your rights are protected, talk to personal injury lawyers immediately after a car collision and protect your legal rights.
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