Were you just in a car accident in Nevada? Whether the crash happened on the Las Vegas Strip, on I-15 or US-95, in Henderson, or on a Reno street, knowing what to do next can protect both your health and your right to compensation.
This guide explains the steps to take after a Nevada car accident, the reporting rules, how fault and insurance work, and the deadlines that apply.
What should you do immediately after a crash in Nevada?
- Stop and check for injuries. Nevada law requires drivers involved in a crash to stop and remain at the scene. Call 911 if anyone is hurt.
- Move out of traffic if it is safe. On busy roads like I-15, staying in the travel lanes can lead to a second crash.
- Call the police. Crashes involving injury or death must be reported to police immediately. Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, Henderson Police, Reno Police, or the Nevada Highway Patrol may respond depending on where you are.
- Exchange information. Get the other driver's name, address, license number, plate number, and insurance details.
- Document the scene. Take photos of vehicles, the road, traffic lights, and your injuries. Collect witness contact information.
- Do not admit fault. Stick to the facts when speaking with the other driver and the police.
Do you need to file a report with the Nevada DMV?
Yes, in many cases. If police did not investigate the accident, Nevada requires drivers to file a Report of Traffic Crash (Form SR-1) with the Nevada DMV within 10 days when the crash caused injury, death, or more than $750 in property damage. Missing this requirement can create problems with your driving privileges.
Why get medical care right away?
Many crash injuries, including whiplash, concussions, and soft tissue injuries, do not cause obvious symptoms at first. Seeing a doctor promptly protects your health and creates a clear record linking your injuries to the accident. Insurers often use delays in treatment to argue that injuries were minor or unrelated.
Is Nevada an at-fault state?
Yes. Nevada is an at-fault state, which means the driver who caused the crash is responsible for the resulting injuries and damage. You can file a claim with the at-fault driver's insurance company, with your own insurer if you have the right coverage, or file a lawsuit.
Nevada drivers must carry at least $25,000 in bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 in property damage coverage. Serious injuries can quickly exceed these limits, which is why uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy can be so valuable.
What if you were partly at fault?
Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule (NRS 41.141). You can recover damages as long as your share of fault is not greater than the combined fault of the other parties. In practice, you can recover if you were 50 percent or less at fault, but your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. If you were 51 percent or more at fault, you cannot recover.
How long do you have to file a claim in Nevada?
- Personal injury lawsuits: generally two years from the date of the accident (NRS 11.190).
- Property damage lawsuits: generally three years from the date of the accident.
- Wrongful death claims: generally two years from the date of death.
Claims involving a government vehicle or agency can have additional requirements, so it is important to act quickly if a public entity may be involved.
How should you handle insurance companies?
- Notify your own insurer of the accident promptly.
- Be careful about giving a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer.
- Do not sign a release or accept a settlement until you know the full extent of your injuries.
- Keep records of all calls, emails, and claim numbers.
What compensation can you recover?
Depending on the case, injured people in Nevada may recover medical bills, future medical care, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, vehicle repair or replacement, and non-economic damages such as pain and suffering.
When should you talk to a Nevada car accident lawyer?
Consider speaking with a lawyer if you were seriously injured, if fault is disputed, if a commercial vehicle or rideshare driver was involved, or if the insurer is delaying or denying your claim. Most Nevada personal injury attorneys offer free consultations and work on a contingency fee basis.
This article provides general information about Nevada law and is not legal advice. Every case is different. Speak with a licensed Nevada attorney about your specific situation.