Best Car Accident Lawyers in Sparks

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Sparks, Nevada?

  The non-emergency phone number of the Sparks Police is (775) 353-2231.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Sparks, Nevada?

  You may obtain a copy of a traffic accident report in Sparks through the official reports vendor of the Sparks Police at https://www.cityofsparks.us/police_home/i_want_to/obtain_a_copy_of_a_traffic_accident.php. Make sure you have the report number with you; otherwise, call (775) 353-2279 and press #4 to speak with a Police Office Assistant in the Identification Unit.

• What are the auto insurance requirements in Sparks?

  In Sparks, vehicles are required to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person in any one accident; $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons in any one accident; and $20,000 for injury to or destruction of property of others in any one accident. Insurance coverage must be validated electronically by an insurance company authorized to do business in the State of Nevada.

• What are some of the dangerous intersections in Sparks?

  There are some dangerous intersections in Sparks where car accidents occur more frequently than in other places in the city. Among the most dangerous intersections in the area are Sparks Boulevard and Prater Way, McCarran Boulevard and Prater Way, Pyramid Way and Prater Way, and El Rancho Drive and Oddie Boulevard. It would be best to exercise extra caution when driving in these places.

• Who will pay for your injuries if you are the victim of a car accident in Sparks?

  As Sparks is part of Nevada, a fault state, the driver who caused the accident will be financially liable for paying the damages you incurred due to their negligence. However, if you are partially at fault, Nevada's modified comparative negligence laws will apply, and your total award will be deducted by the percentage of your share of blame in the accident. Under the same system, you won’t be able to recover compensation if you were found to be more than 50% at fault.

• How can a lawyer help you if you were injured in a car accident in Sparks?

  If you were injured in a car accident in Sparks, a personal injury attorney with experience in handling car accident cases will protect and advocate for your rights against insurance companies and other parties unwilling to take responsibility for your losses. Your attorney will help investigate your case, demonstrate the extent of your injuries through pieces of evidence, and take care of communicating with insurance carriers to ensure that you receive the right amount of compensation.

• How much time do car accident victims in Sparks have to file a lawsuit?

  Car accident victims in Sparks generally have two years from the day of the crash to file a personal injury claim. If the victim would like to pursue property damage claims, they have three years from the date of the accident to take action. Failure to file a legal claim within the given time window will forfeit the victim’s right to compensation.

• How do I choose a car accident lawyer?

  To select a car accident lawyer, consider the lawyer's experience, focus, and reputation. While nearly any attorney can negotiate with insurers for a settlement, not all attorneys have amassed experience litigating a claim in a court of law. Choose an attorney with a background that includes car accident claimants; it's helpful if the attorney is focused on personal injury law. Lastly, read reviews from previous clients to get a feel for the attorney's helpfulness and responsiveness to clients. The best lawyer for your case is one that you feel comfortable and confident working with.

• What steps should I take after a car accident?

  Immediately following a car accident, get out of traffic as soon as possible and dial 9-1-1. Exchange car insurance information with any other involved drivers and get a police report as soon as possible. Be truthful about what happened, even if you are at fault, but stick to reporting the facts of the accident without offering an opinion on who is to blame. If possible, take photos of your car, other cars at the scene, and the scene itself.

• (When) Do I need a lawyer after a car accident?

  Start working with a car accident lawyer as soon as possible following your car accident (some attorneys even make hospital visits). By reaching out for legal help early on, you avoid some of the pitfalls of trying to handle your claim on your own. Your attorney can also get the ball rolling on reimbursement for your medical bills and lost wages while awaiting the outcome of your claim.

• How long after a car accident can you claim an injury?

  The length of time you can file a claim for an injury following a car accident is governed by the statute of limitations in your state. Although it varies, most states set the statute of limitations for injured parties to seek compensatory damages at three years following the accident or three years after you discover your injuries. In cases where children are injured, the statute of limitations may be longer.

• What do I do after a car accident that I'm not responsible for?

  After an accident that's not your fault, seek immediate medical help if you are injured. Once it's safe to do so, obtain the other driver's contact and insurance information, any statements from witnesses, and photos of the scene. Obtain a police report and contact your insurer and the at-fault party's insurer. If you are injured, schedule a consultation with a car accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

• What happens if someone sues you after a car accident?

  If you have car insurance in force at the time of the accident, your insurance is contractually bound to represent you on any claims that arise, indemnifying you against loss up to the limits of your policy. You can help your insurance company by cooperating fully. If the plaintiff in any lawsuit obtains a judgment above your policy limits, then you can be held personally responsible for any damages awarded.

• What/how much can I expect from a car accident settlement?

  According to the Insurance Information Institute, the average bodily injury claim in 2018 was $15,785. The amount of any particular car accident settlement hinges primarily on the severity of the injuries sustained as a result and whether or not any partial or total permanent disability was caused by the accident. Claims that involve broken bones or nerve damage likely settle for more than claims where soft tissue injuries are present.

• How do I arrange a rental car after an accident?

  To arrange a rental car after an accident, first consider whether your insurance or the other party's insurance will be paying for the rental. If another driver is found to be at-fault for the accident, that driver's insurance may pay the costs. If you are responsible, your insurance may pay if your policy covers such expenses. Speak with your insurance adjuster to determine if you have benefits available.

• How long does it take for car insurance to go back down after an accident?

  Post-accident rate spikes can last anywhere from three to five years, depending on your insurer. However, if damages incurred during the accident are less than $2,000, your rate may not go up at all. Three years is typical for collision and property damage claims. Five years is not uncommon in accidents involving bodily injury claims, DUI or DWI, reckless driving, or serious violations at the time of the accident.

• How to settle a car accident claim without a lawyer?

  To negotiate a car accident settlement without a lawyer, you'll have to prove that the other party was to blame for your damages. Gather evidence at the scene to support your claim, including witness statements and photos. Seek medical treatment for your injuries immediately. Notify the other driver's insurer of your intent to file a claim. If you reside in a no-fault state, you will need to use your personal injury protection (PIP) benefits first before filing a claim against the other party for medical expenses and bodily injury. Be prepared with medical records, police reports, receipts for out-of-pocket accident-related costs, and proof of lost income due to the accident before beginning negotiations.