If you were involved in a car accident in Las Vegas, Nevada, you may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, emotional distress, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. However, you may be wondering whether you need to hire an attorney for your case.
While a lawyer might not be necessary for every circumstance, it is generally in your best interest to at least reach out to an attorney for a free consultation. The car accident attorney in Las Vegas, NV, at Battle Born Injury Lawyers has won over $100 million for our clients and can get to work for you as well. Call us today to set up a time to meet at (702) 570-9000, and continue reading to learn more.
How Battle Born Injury Lawyers Will Help After a Car Accident in Las Vegas, Nevada
With over 85 years of combined experience, Battle Born Injury Lawyers has a track record of successfully representing victims across Nevada.
Our Las Vegas car accident lawyers can handle all aspects of your case, including:
- Investigating how your car accident occurred
- Gathering police reports, eyewitness statements, and other evidence
- Identifying potentially liable parties and proving negligence
- Calculating your damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses
- Negotiating insurance claim settlements
- Filing a car accident lawsuit, if necessary
Contact us for a free consultation if you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident in Las Vegas, NV.
Step 1. Evaluate the Severity of Your Accident
You should evaluate the severity of your accident to determine whether it is one you can reasonably handle yourself. You may be able to settle your claim without a lawyer if:
- The accident was minor
- You sustained no injuries
- Liability is not disputed
- Your damages are limited and well-documented
- Your insurance company is responsive
It may be in your best interest to hire a lawyer if your accident involves serious injuries, long-term disability, or multiple parties, to name just a few circumstances.
Step 2. Notify Your Insurance Company
Immediately report your accident to your insurance provider. Most policies require prompt notice of a crash. Give only the basic facts, such as the time and location of your accident and the name of the other driver.
Do not admit fault or speculate about your injuries until you have had time to evaluate the situation and seek medical care. You may also want to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurer. This is called a third-party claim.
Step 3. Gather Evidence and Document Everything
You must typically prove the other driver was negligent to receive compensation. You must also show that you suffered damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering. It is important to begin collecting evidence as soon as possible, including:
- A copy of the police accident report
- Photos of vehicle damage, skid marks, road conditions, and injuries
- Medical records and bills
- Repair estimates or invoices
- Pay stubs or income documentation to show lost wages
- A written statement summarizing your pain, symptoms, and limitations
The more detailed and organized your documentation, the stronger your case will be.
Step 4. Understand the Value of Your Claim
You need to calculate the full value of your claim before beginning negotiations. This includes
economic damages, such as:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Property damage (vehicle repairs or replacement)
- Lost income
It also includes non-economic damages, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
It can be challenging to put a dollar value on pain and suffering or emotional distress, so speaking with a car accident lawyer is recommended if you believe your non-economic damages are significant.
Step 5. Negotiate with the Insurance Adjuster
An insurance adjuster will evaluate the case and may make an initial settlement offer once you have submitted your claim. This first offer is often low and intended to resolve your claim quickly and cheaply. There are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Don’t accept the first offer. Respond with a counteroffer based on your documented damages.
- Stay calm and professional. Avoid emotional arguments and stick to the facts.
- Be prepared to justify your demand, especially medical expenses and lost wages.
- Put everything in writing. Keep copies of all communications.
If you reach an agreement, the insurer will send you a settlement release. Read it carefully. Signing typically waives your right to pursue further compensation. If you have any questions, consider consulting with a car accident lawyer to protect your interests.
Proceed With Caution and Do Not Hesitate To Consult a Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer
Getting money after a car accident without a lawyer is possible, but it is not always advisable. Insurance companies have experience and resources on their side, and their goal is to minimize payouts. You may inadvertently leave money on the table or make a mistake that harms your claim without legal knowledge.
You also risk losing compensation if you are accused of being partially at fault for your accident under Nevada’s comparative negligence rule, or failing to file a lawsuit before the statute of limitations expires.
Contact Our Las Vegas Car Accident Attorneys for a Free Consultation
If your accident was especially minor and liability is clear, you might be able to settle your car accident claim without an attorney. However, do not hesitate to consult a Las Vegas car accident attorney if the case becomes more complex than expected.
Our team offers free consultations and works on a contingency fee, meaning you do not pay unless you win compensation. Contact us today.
