7 Things to Never Do After a Car Accident in Las Vegas

There were 417 fatal accidents in Nevada during 2022, and with a population of 660,929, many of them happened in Las Vegas, which welcomed 40.8 million visitors in 2023. While your adrenaline may be pumping and emotions running high, the actions you take immediately following an accident can significantly impact your safety, legal standing, and insurance claims. Here are seven critical mistakes to avoid after a car accident in the Entertainment Capital of the World.

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Never Leave the Scene

Leaving the scene of an accident is illegal in Nevada and can result in serious criminal charges and fines of up to $1,000 for a misdemeanor. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police take hit-and-run incidents seriously, and fleeing can transform a simple traffic incident into a felony charge. From Jan 1 to April 6 of this year, the city recorded 989 hit and run accidents. Always remain at the scene until the police arrive and you’ve exchanged information with all parties involved. If your vehicle is drivable, move it to a safe location nearby, but don’t leave the area entirely.

Don’t Admit Fault or Apologize

While it’s natural to want to be polite and apologetic after an accident, avoid making any statements that could be construed as admitting fault. Phrases like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” can be used against you later during insurance negotiations or legal proceedings. Stick to factual statements about what happened and let the insurance companies and potentially the courts determine fault based on evidence and Nevada’s traffic laws.

Never Skip Calling the Police

Even if the accident seems minor, always call the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police or Nevada Highway Patrol if the incident occurred on a highway. Nevada law requires police reports for accidents involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $750. Having an official police report provides crucial documentation for insurance claims and protects you from potential disputes about what actually occurred.

Don’t Neglect Medical Attention

Having medical documentation from the day of the accident can be vital if you later discover injuries and need to file insurance claims or pursue legal action via attorneys experienced with car accident cases in Las Vegas.

Never Accept Quick Settlement Offers

Insurance adjusters often contact accident victims quickly with settlement offers, particularly for minor accidents. While these offers might seem convenient, they’re typically far below what you may actually be entitled to receive. Before accepting any settlement, consult with a qualified Las Vegas personal injury attorney who understands Nevada’s insurance laws and can properly evaluate your claim’s worth.

Don’t Forget to Document Everything

In today’s smartphone era, there’s no excuse for failing to document an accident scene thoroughly. Take multiple photos of vehicle damage, the accident location, street signs, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from all drivers, passengers, and witnesses. This documentation becomes invaluable when memories fade and insurance companies begin their investigations.

Never Delay Reporting to Insurance

Nevada requires prompt notification to insurance companies following an accident. Delaying this report can jeopardize your coverage and give insurance companies grounds to deny claims. Contact your insurance provider as soon as safely possible, ideally within 24 hours of the incident.

Following these guidelines can help protect your interests and ensure the best possible outcome after an unfortunate accident in Las Vegas.