Get the Compensation You Deserve With Our Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
Are you dealing with serious injuries, property damage, medical bills, and lost wages caused by a Las Vegas car crash? Las Vegas car accident victims can count on Alpha Accident Lawyers to help get them the compensation and representation they deserve after a car accident.
Working with an experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyer ensures your rights are protected. We hold the at-fault parties responsible for your losses and secure maximum compensation for clients injured by someone else's negligence. Our car accident lawyers can help you get the compensation you need to heal from your car accident injuries.
Call our award-winning Las Vegas personal injury law firm today for a free initial consultation.
Call for Your Free ConsultationUnderstanding Car Accidents
Auto accidents are serious events that can change your entire life in a matter of seconds. They can result in property damage, medical bills, personal injuries, lost wages from missed work, and other major challenges, which can put you and your family in a difficult situation.
The complicated process of filing a car accident injury claim can cause confusion and stress for a car accident victim. While properly filing your insurance claim might seem less important than your health, work, or finances, not correctly filing your claim can result in more difficulties later on.
Why Choose a Car Accident Attorney
Our Las Vegas car accident attorneys handle every detail of your car accident case from start to finish. We also facilitate all communications with your insurance company and the other driver's insurance. Therefore, we take on the responsibility of managing and navigating your injury claim. This allows you to focus on what matters most: your recovery.
Our law firm handles all negotiations with the other driver's insurance for you, making sure you get the best medical treatment at low costs that your insurance provider covers. Each of our experienced car accident attorneys has years of experience navigating car accident claims and will fight to get you the maximum compensation available.
Additionally, our team of Las Vegas car accident attorneys is highly communicative. We check in with you regularly to make sure that we're on the same page and that you understand where we're at in the process. Our goal is to ensure that you're receiving the assistance you need while having the time you require to focus on healing.
What Should I Do Immediately After a Car Accident in Las Vegas?
Car accidents are stressful and disorienting events that can cause serious physical and emotional harm. If you are able to do so, take the following steps to ensure your safety and well-being.
- Call 911 if there are any injuries and wait for the authorities to arrive. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) will respond to the auto accident scene and create an official accident report. Obtain a copy of the police report or ask for the report number.
- Document the scene. Take photos and videos of your vehicle and other vehicle(s) involved, as well as any injuries, street signs, or skid marks.
- Gather witness information. If there are witnesses to your accident, get their contact information (name and phone number).
- Seek medical attention. Even if you sustain minor injuries, you should still seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Certain injuries are not immediately apparent but can have profound implications.
- Contact your insurance company. Notify your auto insurance that you were in an accident. Simply state the facts without discussing fault.
- Consult with car accident attorneys. Before making any statements to the insurance adjuster, consider talking to an experienced car accident lawyer. A lawyer can advise you on what steps to take and whether you have a personal injury case.
How Does Nevada's Modified Comparative Negligence Law Affect My Case?
Nevada follows a 51% modified comparative negligence rule. This means that car accident victims can recover damages if they're found to be 50% or less at fault for the accident. If a plaintiff is found to be 51% or more at fault for the incident, they are barred from receiving any compensation.
If you are partially at fault but your responsibility is 50% or less, you can still recover damages. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of your fault. For example, let's say you incur $100,000 in damages but are found 30% at fault. In this case, you would be entitled to $70,000, reflecting a 30% reduction.
What Compensation Can I Recover After a Car Accident in Nevada?
The compensation that you can recover from a car accident in Nevada will depend mainly on the severity of the accident. The more severe the accident, the higher your settlement will be.
Other factors that affect a total settlement award include the liability of all parties and insurance policy limits.
A Las Vegas car accident attorney can help you recover the following types of economic and non-economic damages in your car accident case:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Vehicle repair or replacement costs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of quality of life
- Punitive damages (in cases of extreme negligence)
Handling Insurance After a Car Accident
The main objective of an auto insurance company is to protect their bottom line. This isn’t ideal for injured victims of auto accidents, as they deserve to be fairly compensated by the at-fault party’s insurance.
Here are a few tips when dealing with insurance after a car accident:
- Don’t admit fault: Immediately after an accident, emotions can run high, leading to statements that may inadvertently imply responsibility. It's vital to refrain from admitting fault during communications with insurance representatives.
- Don’t accept the first offer: Insurance companies often present quick, low settlement offers to close claims efficiently.
- Document everything thoroughly: Keep detailed records of your medical expenses, lost income, transportation costs, and other accident-related expenses.
- Understand your policy and coverage: Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy's terms, including coverage limits, deductibles, and specific provisions related to accidents.
- Contact an auto accident attorney: If the insurance adjustor assigned to your case disputes liability, offers an inadequate settlement, or if the accident resulted in serious injuries, consult a personal injury attorney to explore your options.
Is Nevada a No-Fault State for Car Accidents?
Whether the state you live in is an at-fault or no-fault state makes a big difference in the type of car insurance coverage you should get. Nevada is an at-fault state when it comes to car accidents. This means the at-fault driver is responsible for damages caused by the accident.
If you were deemed not at fault, you may be able to recover damages from the at-fault driver. However, keep in mind that Nevada’s modified comparative negligence law bars victims from pursuing compensation if they are more than 50% at fault. An experienced car accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options according to Nevada law.
Negotiating Your Car Accident Case
Negotiating a car accident settlement can be complex, even when you have a strong case. While it's possible to negotiate independently, consulting with a personal injury attorney can be very advantageous. An experienced lawyer can:
Provide Expertise
Navigating personal injury laws in Nevada without a lawyer can be challenging. A lawyer can provide expertise and guide you on the best path after your automobile accident. They can also help your case stay on track with the state's statute of limitations.
Handle Communications
When you hire a law firm for your Las Vegas auto accident, you will have a team of experts ready to help you recover fair compensation as quickly and efficiently as possible. They will handle all communications with the insurance so you can recover and heal.
Negotiate Effectively
Perhaps the main benefit of hiring a lawyer is their negotiation skills. Lawyers are expert negotiators who can leverage their experience to secure a fair settlement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do I have to file a car accident lawsuit in Nevada?
Car accident victims have two years from the date of their accident to file a personal injury claim in Nevada. However, it's recommended to start the process as soon as possible while the evidence is fresh and the witnesses' memories are clear.
Waiting too long can jeopardize your chances of winning a fair settlement from the negligent party. Once the statute of limitations runs out, you will be unable to recover any money from their insurance or any other party.
Should I accept the insurance company's first settlement offer?
Be very careful when accepting the first offer from the insurance company. Often, insurance companies will present an offer that looks good on paper. However, their offer may not cover all of your current and future expenses related to the accident, such as future medical bills and physical therapy. This is why it is crucial to talk to a lawyer before accepting their offer.
What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
An estimated 10% of Nevada drivers are uninsured. If you get into an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, it can be difficult to know what to do next.
The best protection against uninsured drivers is uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). With this coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurance. Nevada law requires insurance companies to offer UM/UIM coverage. However, drivers can reject this coverage in writing.
If you don’t have UM coverage, you can still speak with a car accident lawyer to find out if there are other avenues for fair compensation.
How much does it cost to hire car accident lawyers in Las Vegas?
Unlike other areas of law, personal injury law primarily operates on a contingency fee basis. This payment method ensures that anyone can hire a lawyer to represent them regardless of financial status. Personal injury lawyers who work on a contingency only get paid if they win your case.
This means you do not owe any upfront legal fees when you hire an attorney. If your case is successful and you are awarded a settlement, you will owe the lawyer a fee as stated in the contract. The standard contingency fee is typically between 33-40% of the settlement amount.
What documents should I bring to my first meeting with an attorney?
You should bring the following documents to your initial consultation with your attorney:
- Police report
- Medical records and bills
- Insurance policy information
- Photos of the accident scene and damages
- Witness contact information
- Pay stubs or other proof of lost wages
- All correspondence with insurance companies
During your consultation, you can ask about similar cases the lawyer has handled, their success rate, the expected timeline of your case, and who you will be in contact with. Take this opportunity to see if you feel comfortable with the lawyer and want to work together.
What if my accident occurred on the Las Vegas Strip or near a casino?
Over 40 million people visited Las Vegas in 2023, making the Strip one of the most congested areas in the U.S. If you were involved in an accident on the Strip or near a casino, whether as a pedestrian or motorist, have the local authorities investigate the accident and notify your insurance company.
Accidents near casinos often involve multiple liable parties (casino, valet services, other drivers, etc). Additionally, there is a higher likelihood of drunk driving, given that many casino patrons consume alcohol. If you are a tourist visiting Las Vegas, your accident will most likely involve a rental car.
These factors can make your case more complex. Consulting with a Las Vegas car accident lawyer can provide the clarity you need after this stressful event.
What if I was in an accident as a tourist in Las Vegas?
If you were in an accident as a tourist, you can still file a claim in Nevada even if you're from out of state. Local attorneys can handle most aspects of your case remotely, though you may need to return if your case goes to trial.
If you were in an accident with a rental car, follow the same steps as if you were in your own vehicle. You will need to contact the car rental company to inform them of the accident and then your own insurance company.
If you were not at fault for the accident, you must still pay the deductible to the rental car company. Your own insurance company would then file a claim with the responsible party.
Which medical providers should I see after an accident in Las Vegas?
Whether or not you are a local, seeking medical attention after a car accident is critical for your well-being and case. If your injuries are serious or unknown, go to the emergency room. If you feel fine but still want to get checked out, see your doctor or find a doctor nearby. While you can choose any medical provider, some local hospitals well-versed in car accident cases include:
- University Medical Center (UMC)
- Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center
- Desert Springs Hospital
- Valley Hospital Medical Center
Give them a complete rundown of your auto accident, the impact you sustained, and any other details that may help with your care. Keep all medical records and follow the doctor’s treatment plan.
Will my health insurance cover my accident-related medical expenses?
Your health insurance may cover some of your medical expenses, but you might still have to pay your deductible or co-pay. If the other party is at fault, your health insurance provider may seek reimbursement from the at-fault party's insurance through subrogation.
If you do not have health insurance, your attorney can place a lien with hospitals, doctors, and healthcare providers. A lien is a legal claim that allows healthcare providers to secure payment for services rendered to a patient involved in a personal injury case. An attorney can help negotiate these liens to maximize your compensation.
How long will it take to resolve my case in Las Vegas?
A car accident claim in Las Vegas may settle anywhere from a few months to years. The timeline varies depending on:
- Severity of injuries
- Clarity of liability
- Insurance company cooperation
- Court schedule (if litigation is necessary)
While most cases settle within 6-12 months, complex cases may take longer. You should be wary of attorneys offering quick settlements, as these settlements may only reflect part of your damages. It is important to be patient when dealing with personal injury claims.
What if my case goes to trial in Clark County?
Most personal injury cases settle out of court, which makes the likelihood of a trial very slim. However, in the rare occurrence that your case goes to trial, you should expect a much longer settlement time.
Cases are typically heard at the Regional Justice Center in downtown Las Vegas, and the legal process may take 12-24 months from filing to verdict. You may need to appear in person for certain proceedings.
Contact Us for Your Free Consultation
Car accidents caused by drunk driving, reckless driving, or distracted driving can have a profound effect on the lives of everyone involved. If you are a victim of someone else's negligence, you deserve justice and financial compensation.
Are you ready to start with a 100% free, no-obligation consultation for your car accident case? The legal team at Alpha Accident Lawyers is ready to get to work defending your insurance claim and providing you with the compensation you need.
Contact our Las Vegas law firm today, and we'll assemble a winning case on your behalf.
Alpha Accident Lawyers
Located at: 1810 E Sahara Suite 135, Las Vegas, NV 89104
Call us: (725) 300-0124
Free Consultation
You will never be charged any fees unless we win your case. If you have been injured in an accident, contact us for your free consultation today.