First Steps After a Automobile Accident in Las Vegas

Have you been injured in a automobile accident while visiting Las Vegas, or are you a resident of Las Vegas and have been hurt?

If you have been injured in an auto accident in Las Vegas, Crockett & Myers Attorneys at Law explains there are certain steps you should take in order to ensure that your interests are protected. First remember you are human and are probably a little shaken. Take the time to gather your thoughts. If this is a serious accident with either a lot of property damage or serious injuries you should plan to consult with attorneys. Experienced legal advice is very important in ensuring your rights are protected.

Steps to take after a car accident:

Remain at the scene of the accident.
You should never leave the scene of an accident until it is appropriate to do so (Either after police have been notified or to obtain emergency treatment). Should you leave the scene, especially where serious injury or death has occurred, you can face serious criminal penalties for being a ""hit-and-run"" driver. However, if you feel threatened or in danger then leave the scene and drive straight to the nearest police station.

Check on everyone involved in the accident.
Get medical attention for anyone who may need it. The adrenaline rush of an accident has been known to mask pain and injury. You may not even be aware of your own injury in such a situation. Do not move anyone unless they are in more danger from remaining where they are. Moving a person with spinal injuries can add to the damage for which you could become liable. Do not leave unconscious people alone.

Notify the authorities.
If the accident involves significant property damage, physical injury, or death, you will need to call the police. Ask that a police report be filed. In situations where law enforcement officers do arrive at the scene, and obtain their name(s) and badge number(s).

Discussing the incident (exchanging information).
Talk to the driver(s) of any other vehicles involved in the accident. Do not make any admissions or apologize. Modern technology will allow anyone to photograph you and record anything you say without you being aware that they were doing so. Those statements can later be used against you. Get contact information, drivers’ license numbers, license plate numbers, cell phone numbers, email addresses, as well as basic insurance information. If there are passengers in any of the vehicles, obtain their contact information and relationship to the driver. In talking to drivers of other vehicles, you manner should be pleasant and cooperative but your goal is to determine that everyone is okay. You will need to provide your information as well.

Exchange information with witnesses.
Get the contact information of witnesses if possible. Get their statements if possible. Try to obtain statements from anyone who may have seen what happened. Document this information carefully.

Take Photographs.
If you can, you should photograph any bruises, cuts or other physical evidence as soon as possible so that the full extent of your injuries can be visually preserved. Capture the position of the vehicles, and injured parties if you can. Review pictures as soon as possible to ensure that you have collected the needed information.

These steps are the ones that should be followed at the time of the accident. Immediately thereafter you should:

Inform your insurance company.
Let your insurance company know that you have been involved in an accident. Determine the steps in filing a claim and be prepared to submit paperwork. Ensure you know the time limitations on this process.

Consult with an attorney.
You should consider retaining the services of an attorney experienced with automobile accidents in Nevada. The Las Vegas car accident lawyers at Crockett & Myers Attorneys at Law are experienced in this area of law and know how to work with insurance companies to protect your rights as well as to ensure that you are following the law. Immediate representation will also ensure that evidence and important facts are preserved, often resulting in a more favorable settlement or trial judgment for you.

Work with your attorney to file your insurance claim.
Your attorney will be able to assist with providing them with police reports, medical reports, witness statements etc.

Checklist of activities after an auto accident. Remember to consult with your legal representation to protect your rights.

• Consult with your medical professionals.
• Document your injuries.
• Allow your vehicle to be inspected by a claims representative.
• Allow your car to be photographed and inspected.
• Present a list of non-vehicle property damaged in the accident: luggage, small electronics etc.
• Secure a copy of the police report.
• Familiarize yourself with your insurance policy and be aware that your claim goes beyond physical damage to vehicles.
• Sign a medical release so that injury records will be made available to the insurance company.
• Secure at least two car repair estimates, or three value appraisals if your car was totaled. Notify your agent of any damage from the accident discovered during the course of car repairs.
• Present bills for towing and storage costs. Arrange for a temporary substitute vehicle if you have rental reimbursement coverage.
• If the other party was at fault but not insured or under-insured, prepare a claim for injury, lost wages or extended disability.
• Notify your attorney of any early settlement offers.

Crockett & Myers Attorneys at Law invite you to contact us to answer your Las Vegas automobile accident questions in a free no-obligation consultation by filling out the on-line form or by call us toll free at (866) 382-6711.