If you are traveling out of state for business or leisure, a car accident can quickly disrupt your plans. If a crash occurs, you will need to address the aftermath under the laws of the state where the accident happened. If you are involved in an accident while visiting Nevada, a car accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, handle your claim, and protect your rights.
Understanding Car Accidents That Occur Out of State
In Nevada, drivers involved in vehicle accidents are subject to an “at-fault” system that follows a modified comparative negligence rule. Under this system, a driver who is more than 50% responsible for an accident must pay damages to the other parties involved. Drivers who are less than 50% at fault may pursue compensation for their losses, but any recovery is reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if a driver found 30% at fault is awarded $100,000 in damages, they would receive $70,000 in compensation.
In most cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance company covers the settlement, though a lawsuit may sometimes be necessary. To limit payouts, insurance companies often attempt to place greater responsibility on the injured party. For this reason, if you are injured in a car accident, it is important to have legal representation that can negotiate for full compensation, particularly if you are visiting from another state.
When determining fault, the law evaluates how drivers or other responsible parties contributed to the accident through negligence. Factors such as distracted or impaired driving, traffic law violations, and reckless behavior can result in liability for a crash. Conditions like missing street signs and poorly maintained roads may also affect how fault is determined.
Any driver involved in an accident resulting in more than $750 in damage, whether a Nevada resident or an out-of-state visitor, must report the crash to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles within ten days. If the accident involves an injury, law enforcement must be notified immediately. The accident report often acts as evidence that may affect the outcome of a claim.
Insurance and Legal Requirements for Out-of-State Drivers
All drivers in Nevada are required to follow the state’s traffic laws. Although a driver’s insurance coverage is valid across state lines, responsibility for a car accident is governed by the laws of the state where the accident happens. As a result, if an out-of-state driver causes an accident in Nevada, any claims made by the injured party will be governed by Nevada’s personal injury laws, even if the driver’s insurance policy was issued in another state.
States commonly have different minimum insurance requirements. If you are an at-fault driver from another state, your insurance policy may not fully cover damages awarded in Nevada, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. For example, if Nevada law allows the other driver to recover $100,000 but your policy has a lower liability limit, you may need a Nevada car accident lawyer to help review your options. Whether resolving an insurance claim or pursuing a lawsuit, a Nevada lawyer is best positioned to understand the state’s insurance requirements and laws and manage your case effectively.
If you are visiting Nevada from another state and a Nevada driver causes a collision, their Nevada-based insurance policy will apply if they are at fault. If two out-of-state drivers are involved in an accident while traveling in Nevada, both parties will need to work with Nevada accident attorneys to resolve the matter.
Actions to Take After a Car Accident
Car accidents in Nevada are serious events, and the actions you take afterward can affect your case. To help protect your outcome, consider the following steps:
First, prioritize your safety. If you can, move your vehicle out of traffic.
Check yourself and any passengers for injuries and call 911. The operator will arrange for police to respond and decide if medical assistance is needed.
When the police arrive, they will gather information for an accident report. Be careful not to admit fault, as anything you say could be used against you. Do not leave the scene unless your injuries are life-threatening.
If neither you nor the other driver is seriously injured, exchange contact and insurance information.
Begin collecting evidence. Take clear photos and detailed notes of the accident scene and your injuries, and obtain contact information from any witnesses.
After the police allow you to leave the scene, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Reach out to a Nevada accident attorney to help protect your rights and interests.
After an accident, a Nevada car accident lawyer can continue collecting police reports, medical records, photos, videos, and witness statements related to the scene as evidence. They can also communicate and negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to help prevent disputes and misunderstandings.
Handling Your Case From Your Home State
While you recover from your accident, you may need ongoing medical care, vehicle repairs or replacement, and help addressing legal matters from your home state. In many cases, a car accident attorney can handle much of your case remotely, reducing the need to return to Nevada. A Nevada lawyer can file paperwork and manage your insurance claim or lawsuit on your behalf, as well as participate in and prepare you for virtual depositions, mediation, and remote hearings. This makes it possible to continue working or spending time with family at home without traveling.
Nevada’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accident Claims
In most cases, Nevada car accident claims are subject to a two-year statute of limitations starting from the date of the accident. A Las Vegas–based personal injury attorney can manage all aspects of your insurance claim or legal case and help make sure all required deadlines are met.
Consult With Experienced Car Accident Lawyers in Nevada
If you are from out of state, handling an accident in Nevada can be easier with the right legal guidance. Whether you need assistance with a car accident, personal injury, truck accident, drunk driving, or wrongful death claim, an experienced Nevada attorney can provide the support needed to help you pursue full and fair compensation.
