If you live anywhere in the western US, you’ll probably drive to Vegas at least once. A road trip to Las Vegas is a rite of passage. But before driving into Las Vegas, make sure you know the lay of the land. Nevada is an at-fault state for auto collisions. This affects your responsibility if you’re involved in a car accident.
At-Fault States: The Basics
US car insurance laws vary by state, with two main systems determining how injury claims are handled. Some states are no-fault, while others are at-fault states.
After an auto accident in a no-fault state, insurers pay their own policy holders’ medical expenses even if the other driver caused the accident or if fault has not yet been determined. This ensures that accident victims’ medical expenses are paid promptly.
No-fault states’ laws also limit drivers’ ability to sue each other after an accident by requiring injuries to meet a high legal threshold to qualify for a lawsuit. This helps to minimize demands on the states’ court systems.
At-fault states like Nevada hold the driver responsible for an accident responsible for damages incurred as well. This means that if you cause an at-fault car accident, the other driver can file a claim against your insurer and sue you directly too.
This also means that if you did not cause an at-fault car accident, you can file a claim against the other driver’s insurance and against the other driver as well.
What if both drivers were at fault for the accident?
Nevada is one of several at-fault states following what is called a modified comparative negligence rule. When an accident is determined to be partially both or all drivers’ fault, drivers who were less than 50% at fault may recover some damages.
What to Do After an At Fault Car Accident in Las Vegas
If your drive to Vegas hits an unexpected turn in the form of an accident, take steps to protect yourself. Call for help regardless of whether anyone appears injured. Then get ready to assemble documentation.
In an at-fault state, evidence of who is to blame for the accident is crucial. To assist your insurance company in investigating the crash, get the other driver’s information and insurance policy. If there are eyewitnesses, consider asking for their contact information as well.
Once police have arrived on the scene, request copies of any police reports and witness statements, as well as photos and videos of the crash site and vehicle damage. Take your own picture and videos too.
Do You Need an Attorney for an At Fault Car Accident?
You may need an auto accident attorney even if you’re not at fault. However, if you suspect that you will be found at fault, consider reaching out to an at-fault car accident lawyer.
An experienced at-fault car accident lawyer may be able to reduce the damages the other driver or their insurance tries hold you responsible for. They can also assist in investigating to determine your comparative fault in the accident. It may be less than you think.
Your dream road trip to Las Vegas doesn’t have to become a nightmare due to an at-fault car accident. Our expert lawyers are here to help you navigate the complex laws of an at-fault state like Nevada. Give yourself the best chance to reduce your liability by scheduling a consultation with us as soon as you can.
