If you have been in a car accident in Las Vegas, you may wonder how to protect your interests. You may be worried about how to proceed if you were at fault.
Understanding the best practices to use if you were at fault in a car accident can be invaluable. Learn more on this site.
1. Remain at the Scene
Nevada law requires drivers to remain at the scene of a car accident if they have caused injuries, including bodily and property damage. While you may not immediately know whether the other party has been injured, it is best to remain at the scene. Remember to document the scene and exchange contact information with the other parties involved.
Fleeing after an accident is called a hit-and-run. In fleeing the scene, you also lose an opportunity to gather evidence that may be used in your own claim for damages.
Nevada is a modified comparative fault state, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you weren’t mostly at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by the proportion of your fault.
2. Do Not Admit Fault
After the accident, you may be tempted to apologize to the other party for the accident or explain what happened. It is best to avoid such statements and explanations, which can be interpreted as an admission of fault. Regardless of the presence of witnesses, it is best for you to refrain from making those statements.
Instead, calmly exchange information and state that you may need to consult with a lawyer before discussing the accident further.
3. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
As mentioned above, even if you were partially at fault, you may still recover compensation for your injuries. For your physical and financial well-being, seeing a doctor as soon as possible after the accident is essential.
You may not feel your injuries immediately after an accident due to adrenaline, or your injuries may be worse than you initially thought they were. Medical evaluation can help you accurately claim compensation for your injuries.
4. Hire a Car Accident Lawyer
An experienced car accident lawyer knows how to navigate the aftermath of a car accident, even if you’re at fault. The lawyer will advise you how to avoid making self-incriminating statements to the police, opposing parties and insurance companies.
The lawyer can help you recover for your own injuries and negotiate with your insurance company. Having a skilled lawyer by your side can help maximize your compensation and limit your liability.
5. Avoid Talking to Insurance Companies Without Consulting a Lawyer.
Experienced car accident lawyers can deal with insurance companies on your behalf. They know the tactics that insurance companies use to extract confessions from opposing parties and to avoid paying out to their own clients. Even if you were partially at fault, the other party may also be partially at fault for your injuries. You deserve to have the best chance at recovering compensation for your injuries.
Furthermore, since Nevada is an at-fault state, the other party can sue you directly without having to go through their insurance company first. However, the other party has the burden of establishing your fault. Your lawyer can not only shield you from insurance companies’ predatory tactics, but they can also defend against a lawsuit brought by the other party. Lawyers can both protect you and work to maximize your compensation after an accident, even if you are at fault.
Contact an Experienced Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer if You’re at Fault
While you may be worried after an accident in which you were at fault, it is helpful to act calmly, stay at, and document the scene the scene. Always avoid admitting fault. After the accident, seek medical attention right away, as you may have injuries for which you may obtain compensation.
Hiring a lawyer can help you avoid unintentional admissions of fault. A car accident lawyer can help you bring your own claim and defend against the other party’s claims. After an accident in which you were at fault, these five tips can help you navigate an uncertain situation.
