If you get into a car accident in Nevada, it is normal not to know exactly what to do or how best to protect your rights. Whether this is your first car accident or not, it is important to learn the most common mistakes to avoid. Speaking with a Las Vegas car wreck lawyer can help you understand these pitfalls and how to navigate the aftermath of a crash. Otherwise, you could unintentionally hurt your chances of recovering fair financial compensation for your injuries and losses.
Admitting Fault
It may be in your nature to avoid confrontation by immediately apologizing to the other driver involved. However, an apology could be taken as an admittance of guilt. Do not apologize or admit fault at the scene of the accident or while describing the crash to the police. This could place full liability on you even if you were not 100 percent at fault.
Delaying Medical Care
Always see a doctor immediately after a car accident in Nevada. You may initially feel fine, but your adrenaline could be masking pain. Prompt medical care can lead to a fast diagnosis and the medical treatment that you need. It also shows a car insurance company that your injuries are connected to the car accident.
Avoiding the Police
Involving the police can benefit you in multiple ways. A police report will provide clear, unbiased documentation of the details and facts of the crash. You can submit it as an important piece of evidence to support your car insurance claim. Reporting a car accident to the police is also legally required in Nevada if it results in injuries, deaths or more than $750 in property damage.
Forgetting to Collect Evidence
If you can, preserve and gather evidence before you leave the scene where the car accident took place. This includes photographs, videos, eyewitness information and the other driver’s information. Keep copies of your medical records after receiving treatment, as well.
Posting On Social Media
Avoid posting about your car accident or related injuries on any social media platform. Car insurance companies can peruse a claimant’s personal social media profiles for reasons to deny coverage. Posting photos, status updates, comments or even sending messages could provide content that the insurer can use against you.
Waiting Too Long to File a Claim
Don’t wait to report the car accident to a car insurance company. Most insurance providers have strict reporting deadlines of 24 to 72 hours. If your case ends up having to go to court or leads to a lawsuit, you must act quickly. Nevada law gives you no more than two years from the date of your car accident to file a related legal claim. If you wait too long, you could miss your deadline and lose the right to seek financial compensation.
Accepting the First Settlement Offer
You may be eager to quickly resolve your car insurance claim and receive a settlement so that you can pay your bills and move forward, but it’s important not to rush the process. Jumping into the very first settlement offered to you could lead to getting stuck with an agreement that does not adequately pay for your losses. Before you accept or sign anything, contact a Las Vegas personal injury law firm.
Failing to Consult With an Attorney
Car insurance companies are experienced at convincing claimants to accept lowball settlements so that their own profits and interests are protected. You can fight back by hiring a car accident attorney to represent you. Before making any binding decisions about your claim, consult with a lawyer for advice and information about your case. You may be entitled to significantly more than the insurer is offering you.