It can be confusing for drivers to determine when to file a police report for car damage in Nevada, especially if they have never been involved in a wreck. Nevertheless, completing an accident report is not only a crucial step toward seeking and obtaining compensation for any losses but a legal obligation in many cases as well.
When To Report a Nevada Car Accident
Under Nevada law, minor fender-benders or accidents that do not cause any physical harm or damage to the vehicles do not need to be reported. Only crashes that cause injury or death to someone or that cause property damage exceeding $750 involve such a requirement.
If you are not certain whether your accident must be reported, err on the side of caution and call the police to the scene. While you will not face consequences for unnecessarily reporting an accident, failing to file a required accident report can cause the state to take certain enforcement actions against you.
How To Report a Car Wreck
If your car accident must be reported, contact your local law enforcement agency or call 911. Having a law enforcement officer at your crash site to complete a police report fulfills your obligation to report the crash.
Reporting an accident to police after the fact is also an option, especially in cases where you realize you have to make a delayed accident report if you initially misjudged the severity of your car’s damage or your injuries.
To make a delayed report of your car accident, you must complete Form SR-1 and return it to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). How long do you have to report a car accident in such a situation? Your accident report must be filed within ten days of the car crash.
Regardless of that relatively short window, it is critical that you carefully complete the form to the best of your ability and attach any supporting documentation requested. At the bare minimum, you will need to include a copy of the insurance policy in force at the time of the accident.
Additionally, if anyone in your car was hurt, you should provide a doctor’s statement indicating the extent of their injuries. Similarly, if your vehicle was damaged, attach an estimate from a repair shop showing the extent of damage. A statement of damages is also required if your or any passenger’s property was damaged to an extent greater than $750.
What Happens if I Don’t Report an Accident?
Failing to report an accident you are required to can have serious consequences. Not only could you lose your driving privileges, but you could have a much tougher time filing a claim for compensation.
As a result, it’s almost always a good idea to call 911 after a crash and alert the police of the accident.
The Importance of Filing a Nevada Car Accident Report
A car accident report can help you prove your insurance claim or personal injury lawsuit following a crash. Without one, it might be more difficult to recover the compensation you need and deserve to move forward. A skilled attorney can assist you in completing your report and taking further action if necessary.
Contact Our Las Vegas Personal Injury Law Firm For Help Today
If you’ve been injured in Las Vegas, NV, and need legal help contact our Las Vegas personal injury attorneys at De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers to schedule a free case evaluation today.
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
1149 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV. 89104
(702) 222-9999
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Summerlin Office
410 S Rampart Blvd, Ste 480 Las Vegas, NV. 89145
(702) 297-6373
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
9555 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV. 89123
(702) 997-4264