The Office of Traffic Safety in Nevada reported over 51,000 crashes, 18,000 personal injury cases, and 235 casualties in 2022 in terms of car and truck accidents. Safety is paramount, and the best way to do that is to be careful when driving.
Unfortunately, “accidents” are an unavoidable part of life. When in an accident, there are several things you should do right away to ensure your own (and other parties’) safety and to avoid legal liability. At the same time, there are several things that you should NOT do, either.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the five most common mistakes drivers make after an auto accident so that you can stay safe, health-wise, and legally.
5 Mistakes To Avoid After a Car or Truck Accident in Nevada
1. DON’T Leave the Scene of an Accident
One of the most common mistakes people make after an accident is fleeing. Leaving the scene of an auto accident in Nevada is considered a criminal offence and can result in hefty fines or even jail time. It can be classified as a hit-and-run, which is a felony and punishable by law in Nevada.
The average sentence for hit-and-run cases in Nevada is six years in prison. Leaving the scene of an accident may also be classified as a misdemeanor. In such cases, the driver may be fined up to $1,000 and/or sent to jail for up to six months.
2. DON’T Admit Fault
It is important to remain calm and not take responsibility for any damages that may have occurred, either verbally or through written communication with other parties involved. Admitting fault usually means that you are liable for the damages, which could potentially result in a lot of legal trouble.
Admitting fault may also allow the other party’s lawyers to use your own words against you in court. If any legal proceedings are involved, it is important not to admit fault and instead speak with your own lawyer first.
3. DON’T Forget to Document Everything
Take pictures of all damaged vehicles at the scene and makes sure to exchange insurance information and contact details between everybody involved.
It is also important to keep all medical, auto repair, and legal bills related to the accident. Documentation is key to establishing both your innocence and the other party’s fault.
4. DON’T Take Insurance Money without Consulting a Lawyer
Insurance companies usually offer lump sums of money in exchange for an auto accident claim. It is important to speak with a lawyer before signing any documents or taking any payments from insurance companies.
A lawyer will be able to advise you on the best course of action so that you can receive fair compensation for all damages caused by an auto accident. Remember, the other party’s lawyer is working in their favor, so don’t be too quick to accept payment, as it may only be a fraction of the total amount you are owed.
5. DON’T Make Unnecessary Repairs
Before getting your car fixed by auto shops, it is recommended to appraise it by a third-party auto body shop and then compare the estimates. The auto shops may offer more services that are unnecessary, so make sure to check before agreeing to any repairs.
It is also important not to rush into auto repairs, as this can cause additional damage due to improper repair techniques or parts. Remember, getting unnecessary repairs may be considered insurance fraud, a serious offence in Nevada.
This list of don’ts after an auto accident in Nevada applies equally to bicycle accidents as well, though the legalities may vary depending on the jurisdiction. With these tips, you can rest assured that your rights are being protected and that you will get the justice and compensation you deserve for any damages caused by auto or bicycle accidents in Nevada.
Involved in a Car or Truck Accident in Nevada? Call the Bourassa Law Group ASAP!
Perhaps the biggest mistake you can make after an auto accident in Nevada is tackling your case without legal representation. Any delay in contacting or hiring an attorney can force the statute of limitations to elapse, witnesses to disappear, and memories/evidence to fade.
With car and truck accidents becoming frequent in the Battle Born State, you need an experienced Nevada car accident lawyer by your side to manage personal injury or property damage claims.
So, give Bourassa Law Group a call at (800)870-8910 and let our capable attorneys help you get maximum compensation for your damages.
1-800-870-8910