The driver who is at fault in a motor vehicle accident is liable for the damages caused, according to Nevada law. Automobile insurance is mandatory in the state, so the expenses relating to the accident should be covered. In most cases, victims may file a claim with the driver’s insurance company to be compensated for the costs of the vehicle damage, medical bills, and other expenses.
The U.S. Department of Transportation Statistics indicates that there are more than 1.6 million licensed drivers in Nevada. Out of that number the Insurance Research Council’s report for 2012 shows that 12.2 percent of all drivers in the state did not carry insurance. A Las Vegas personal injury attorney knows these statistics indicate that an accident with an uninsured driver may be unavoidable. However, an individual may be able to sidestep the financial side effects.
Purchase additional coverage
According to the Nevada Division of Insurance, there are two types of insurance coverage that allow car accident victims to file claims through their own insurance companies, even when they are not at fault. These are uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage and med pay coverage. Medpay covers medical expenses regardless of fault. Additionally, it can be used by the insured whether the insured was a driver, a passenger or a pedestrian who was hit by an uninsured driver. Purchasing one or both of these types of coverage is a proactive way for an individual to avoid the financial fallout of a crash with an uninsured motorist.
Gather evidence of fault
The first thing a person should do after any accident is called law enforcement. A Las Vegas personal injury attorney is aware that the accident report is a vital documentation of the incident. Contact information should be requested from the driver who caused the accident, as well as from eyewitnesses who are willing to give an account of the incident. It is important to take pictures of vehicle damage, skid marks on the road, and other potential evidence because a driver may not be held liable if there is no proof of fault.
Seek advice from professionals
When a careless or negligent uninsured motorist causes an accident, an individual may be able to pursue other avenues to recover expenses. For example, the victim’s own insurance agent may recommend seeking some coverage through personal health insurance. This often covers at least a portion of the medical expenses, although the deductible must typically be paid out of pocket.
At times, the only way to hold the uninsured driver accountable is to take the case to court. A Las Vegas personal injury attorney may be able to provide legal assistance in seeking compensation for injuries, lost wages, property damage and pain and suffering.
