As car accident lawyers in Las Vegas, we help people injured in accidents seek just compensation from those who caused the crash. Nevada is an at-fault state. A driver who causes a crash is responsible for compensating those injured for their medical bills and other accident losses.
However, some accident victims make mistakes that harm their legal right to pursue compensation from the at-fault party. Feeling anxious and shaken after a car accident in Nevada is understandable. But you should avoid making missteps that could undermine your ability to hold the at-fault driver financially accountable.
Not Calling the Police
A common mistake that people make is failing to call the police after a car accident. It’s essential to report the accident to the police so they can create an official record of what happened. The police can help manage the accident scene, gather information from everyone involved, and call for medical backup.
No matter how minor a car accident seems, always notify the police. If you file an insurance claim, the insurance adjuster will look for an accident report. Without an accident report, it’s simply your word against the word of another driver as to what happened.
Not Gathering Information About the Accident
Another mistake is not collecting information about the accident. It’s crucial to gather the names of the other drivers’ names, contact information, license plate numbers, and insurance information. If there were any witnesses, it’s a good idea to get their names and contact information.
We recommend taking photos at the accident scene. Take photos of the position of the cars, skid marks, your injuries, and anything that may have contributed to the accident.
Admitting Fault
Some people make the mistake of apologizing for an accident, even if they’re not sure who was responsible. Saying “I’m sorry” to another driver can be considered an admission of fault. Do not say anything that implies you could be responsible for the crash because other contributing factors may not be apparent.
Determining fault is a complex legal process. It is in your best interest to say nothing about who was at fault to the other driver, first responders, and the insurance company.
Not Seeking Medical Attention
Always seek medical attention after a car accident. Some injuries, including concussions and whiplash, may not be immediately apparent. Without an immediate medical assessment, your symptoms could worsen rapidly. A medical professional can assess your condition and provide treatment.
Delaying medical attention can make it harder to prove that your injuries resulted from the accident. An insurance investigator may question the validity of your injuries if there is a significant time gap between the crash and your initial medical treatment.
Once you’ve sought treatment, follow your medical provider’s instructions. Take all medication and don’t miss follow-up appointments.
Posting on Social Media
After an accident, it’s a mistake to make any comments on social media about the accident or your injuries. Insurance companies often search social media accounts for comments or photos that can be used to question the seriousness of an accident victim’s injuries. It’s best to avoid discussing the accident on social media until the legal process is resolved.
The opposing side could argue that your injuries must not be severe if you have the time and energy to post comments about the crash on social media. To protect the integrity of your case and potential compensation, don’t share about the accident on any social platform, even if you think it’s a private post.
Taking the First Settlement Offer
Accepting the first settlement offer from an insurance company without consulting an attorney is a mistake. Insurance companies may push you to settle for less than you deserve. Some use high-pressure tactics and advise you to accept their offer or you won’t get anything. That’s not true. Settlements are negotiable. It’s important to consult with an attorney who can evaluate your case and negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Never accept any payment without talking to a lawyer. Once you sign the settlement agreement, you cannot seek additional compensation, regardless of the extent or severity of your injuries.
You should speak to the other driver’s insurance company only after you can consult a lawyer. If you do talk to an insurance company representative, limit your answers to factual evidence, such as the make and model of your car, the date and time of the accident, and the location. Remember that if you are under a doctor’s care, you should avoid making legal decisions until you are well enough to do so.
Not Hiring an Attorney
Many people make the mistake of not talking to an attorney after a car accident. In our experience, some accident victims who try to negotiate with insurers on their own undervalue the cost of their injuries and accept less money than they need to get back on their feet.
An experienced attorney can protect your rights, manage the legal process for you, gather evidence, evaluate your losses, including future medical expenses, and negotiate with insurance companies to pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.
Sam & Ash Injury Law offers free consultations. You won’t owe us anything unless we win your case. And as your legal advocates, we’ll take care of the details while you focus on resting and feeling better.
You Deserve What’s Right After a Car Accident in Nevada
You can pursue compensation from an at-fault driver who caused your injuries. At Sam & Ash Injury Law, we’ve recovered money to help injured people recoup their medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. We want to do the same for you.
Get in Touch with Our Experienced Car Accident Lawyers
Contact Sam & Ash Injury Law as soon as possible if you have been injured in a car crash in Las Vegas caused by someone else. If you cannot come to our office, we can visit with you at a location convenient to you. You only have one opportunity to seek compensation and a short time to file a personal injury lawsuit. Call or text 702-820-1234 for your free consultation from Sam & Ash Injury Law.
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