There are many reasons car accidents happen, especially in a state like Nevada that is home to multiple busy metropolitan areas. Typically, the cause of an accident will determine who is at fault and, as a result, financially responsible for damages. The most common causes of car accidents across the nation include vehicle defects, road hazards, reckless driving, distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence. The injuries suffered as a result of a car accident can range from minor to serious. Tragically, some car accidents result in death. If you or someone you know has been injured in a Nevada car accident, below are several steps you should take to help preserve your rights under the law.
Important Steps to Take After an Accident
Beyond seeking competent legal representation in Nevada, certain actions must be taken by a person who has been injured in an accident to help ensure his or her personal injury case is not mistakenly jeopardized. This includes:
- Staying calm and assessing the accident scene: Panicking after an accident is common, but this state of mind can hinder logic and rational judgment. If you and/or any passengers have suffered serious physical injuries, call 911 immediately for medical assistance on scene;
- Documenting as much as possible: Once you have confirmed that everyone is medically stable, take this opportunity to use a few minutes to take photos images and/or videos of the accident scene as evidence. This should include damage to any vehicles, skid marks on the road or other clues as to what caused the crash, and any other visuals that may be important to your case;
- Gathering information from everyone: Collecting the names and contact information of any witnesses at the scene of the accident and obtain the basic insurance, license plates, and contact information of the other driver(s) is important. Make sure you do not leave the accident without having all of this vital information;
- Making sure law enforcement completes an accident report: No matter how minor the accident may seem, it is especially important to get an accident report from the police if you are not the one at fault. Making sure that an accident report is filled out by law enforcement is essential to your personal injury case, as is ensuring that the report includes vital information about the incident.
Car Accident Attorneys in Nevada
Each year across the nation, thousands are severely injured or tragically killed in car accidents. Suffering from injuries resulting from a Nevada auto accident is hard enough; you should not try to navigate the legal process alone. The skilled and experienced attorneys at H & P have been representing car accident victims across Nevada for years and can provide solid legal guidance in your case. If you or someone you know has been injured as the result of an auto accident, or has suffered any other type of personal injury due to the negligence of another, call toll free (702) 879-9555 or click here today to schedule your initial consultation.
