Steps To Take When Hit by a Car in Las Vegas

A road trip to Las Vegas is a dream for many. You will find a new travel account on the same every other day on the internet. Yosemite National Park, Crater Lake, and Lake Tahoe are the nature hotspots if you are traveling to Las Vegas from Seattle or taking the routes through the Western United States.

Further, this route offers you ample opportunities to take photographs, watch sunrise and sunset, and just soak in the tranquil vibe. Winter is a nice time for an escape to Las Vegas. During winter, the temperature here hardly goes below 30°F.

Moreover, the hot subtropical desert climate makes it one of the warmest cities in the USA. So, many people plan a road trip to Las Vegas in the winter season to avoid chill and snow.

Having said that, with many tourists rushing to Las Vegas, traffic conditions often worsen. A few days back, two separate hit-and-run cases in the Las Vegas Valley grabbed everyone’s attention.

Also, being hit by a car can leave you shaken, injured, and unsure of what to do next.

Whether as a pedestrian, cyclist, or another driver, knowing the steps to take after being hit by a car in Las Vegas is critical to protecting your health, safety, and legal rights. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate this difficult situation.

Steps To Take If You Are Hit By A Car In Las Vegas During Your Road Trip

The number of visitors to Las Vegas is increasing at a steady pace. The number is showing promises of bringing pre-Covid 19 days to this Nevada city.

According to the data provided by the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, 41 million visited Las Vegas in 2023. Further, in 2024 (till October), the number has shot up to 42.5 million, which is close to the numbers of 2019.

“As we look at 2024 year-to-date we are almost back, nearly back to that 42.5 million, but not quite there yet.”
Steve Hill, CEO of The Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority

Having said that, Las Vegas is already infamous for heavy traffic. With the influx of tourists, traffic conditions will naturally become even more difficult. In case you are hit by a car in Las Vegas during a road trip or exploring the city hotspots, you can take the following steps.

1. Ensure Your Safety And Call for Help

First, Make A Move Be In A Safe Place: Get out of the spot of the accident to stop further injury. Try to reach the sidewalk at the shoulder of the road. However, if you suspect a serious injury, avoid moving and wait for help.

Call 911: Contact emergency services immediately. The dispatcher will send police officers and medical personnel to the scene.

2. Take Medical Help

Some injuries may not have visible or immediate symptoms. However, there can be concussions or internal bleeding. So, allow first responders to evaluate you and get proper medical attention.

Then, document Your Injuries. The Las Vegas pedestrian accident attorneys recommend securing copies of medical records and treatment details, which will be crucial if you decide to make a personal injury claim.

3. Document The Scene Of The Accident

If you are physically able, gather evidence from the scene:

Take Videos Or Photos: Use your smartphone to photograph the car that hit you, your injuries, the location of the accident, traffic signs, and other important information.

Get Witness Information: Collect the names, phone numbers, and email addresses of anyone who saw the accident. Their testimony can be valuable later.

Note Weather and Traffic Conditions: Details like poor visibility, slick roads, or heavy traffic can provide context for the accident.

4. Exchange Information

Driver’s Information: Get the driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and license plate number.

Vehicle Information: Record the make, model, and color of the vehicle involved.

5. File A Police Report

Provide a Statement: Share your account of the accident with responding officers, but avoid making speculative statements or admitting fault. Stick to the facts.

Obtain a Copy of the Report: Request the incident report number and follow up to get a copy for your records. In Las Vegas, police reports are often crucial for insurance claims and legal cases.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

Even if you were a pedestrian or cyclist and not driving at the time, inform your insurance provider about the accident. Some policies include personal injury protection (PIP) or other coverage that may apply.

7. Consult a Personal Injury Attorney

Understand Your Rights: Nevada is an at-fault state, meaning the party responsible for the accident is liable for damages. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and ensure you receive fair compensation.

Handle Insurance Negotiations: Insurance companies may try to minimize payouts. An attorney can advocate for you to secure compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

File a Lawsuit if Necessary: If negotiations fail, your attorney can represent you in court to seek justice.

8. Keep Detailed Records

Medical Bills: Retain copies of all medical expenses related to the accident.

Lost Wages Documentation: If you miss work, gather proof of income loss.

Pain Journal: Record your physical and emotional experiences during recovery, which can support claims for non-economic damages.

9. Understand Nevada Laws

Statute of Limitations: In Nevada, you typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Comparative Negligence: Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. Let me explain. If you are 20% at fault, you can recover 80% of the damages.

10. Follow Up On Your Recovery

Continue Medical Treatment: Follow through with all prescribed treatments and therapy to ensure proper recovery and maintain a strong legal case.

Stay in Touch with Your Attorney: Provide updates on your condition and any new expenses or losses.

Being hit by a car in Las Vegas can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps can help protect your health, financial stability, and legal rights.

Prioritize your safety and medical care, gather evidence, and seek professional legal advice to navigate the aftermath effectively. With the right approach, you can secure the compensation you need to recover fully and move forward. Enjoy your road trip to this beautiful city!