Best Car Accident Lawyers in Reno

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Reno Police Department is 775-334-2121.

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

  You can get a copy of the traffic accident report from the Records Section of the Reno Police Department’s Main Police Station. You may also get a copy of a crash report by visiting the My Collision Report online collision report retrieval system.

• What are the common factors that may lead to car accidents in Reno?

  The common factors that may lead to auto accidents in Reno are reckless or aggressive driving, falling asleep behind the wheel, alcohol or drug intake, poor road design, defective vehicular parts, and poor weather conditions. Other causes may include distractions such as playing music, using gadgets like mobile phones, putting on makeup, and eating. In addition, physical impairments like poor eyesight and diminished faculties due to old age may also lead to car crashes.

• What pieces of evidence are commonly used in Reno car accident lawsuits?

  The pieces of evidence commonly used in Reno car accident lawsuits are proofs of property damage, injuries, and lost wages. Auto crash victims should also gather evidence from the scene of the accident, such as the name and contact details of any driver involved in the mishap and witnesses who are willing to provide statements to law enforcement officers or lawyers. Additional evidence that may be useful in proving claims include medical or police reports filed after the incident.

• What do car accident victims in Reno have to prove in order for their claim to hold?

  Car accident victims in Reno have to prove the following elements of auto crash claims: that they have operated their vehicle with care, that the other motorist breached their duty of care, and that the at-fault driver’s breach of duty is the direct cause of their injuries. Every driver has the duty to use their car safely by following traffic rules and regulations. Proof that breach of care caused the vehicular mishap is essential for personal injury claims.

• What is the time limit for filing car accident claims in Reno?

  Car accident victims in Reno need to file their claims for compensation within two years from the date of the mishap. This is in line with Nevada’s state-imposed statute of limitations for filing lawsuits involving physical injuries or losses caused by the actions of other persons. In Nevada, vehicular accidents fall under the personal injury category. Thus, any claim to recover damages related to auto crashes must be pursued within the two-year time limit.

• What factors could affect how much compensation a Reno car accident victim is entitled to?

  The factors that could affect how much compensation a Reno car accident victim could get include the type and severity of the injuries suffered, whether he or she is able to go back to work and earn an income, and whether he or she is likely to make a full recovery. Other considerations are whether the injured party share responsibility for the mishap and his or her age at the time of the collision.

• 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.