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Legal Consequences of Being in a Car Accident with Insurance
Driving without vehicle insurance can result in fines and a suspended driver's license. Additionally, if you're at fault in a car accident, you could face personal injury lawsuits and be personally liable for covering damages such as medical expenses and property damage.
Seeking assistance from car accident attorneys is essential when involved in a car accident without insurance, as they can help protect your rights, reduce the potential consequences of being personally liable for damages, and navigate any personal injury lawsuit complexities that may arise.
However, it's important to understand that even with assistance from a Las Vegas car accident attorney, you still may face personal liability and severe financial burdens due to your lack of liability insurance.
Criminal Charges
So, if you're involved in an accident without car insurance and it's determined that you were at fault, you could face a misdemeanor criminal charge according to Nevada state law.
Additionally, there's a risk of having your license suspended unless you can demonstrate that you've purchased liability insurance or made a deposit with the DMV before the car crash.
Civil Liability
If you're in a car accident without insurance, you become personally liable for any damages caused by the car accident.
In such cases where you are deemed the responsible party and lack insurance, you'll need to pay directly from your own pocket for the other party's injuries, property damage, lost income, and legal fees.
A car accident without car insurance can lead to significant financial trouble, and the costs can result in a severe financial burden or even bankruptcy.
Impact on Driving Record
If you get into a car accident while driving uninsured, it can significantly impact your driving record, and the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles may even suspend your license.
In the event your license is suspended due to you being uninsured, you have the right to request a hearing about any suspension of your driving privileges due to driving uninsured, within 15 days.
Financial Implications of a No-Insurance Car Accident
Driving without insurance can result in serious legal and financial repercussions, such as fines, license suspension, and being personally responsible for any damages incurred by other drivers.
Out-of-Pocket Repair Costs
Without insurance, if you're involved in a car accident, you will have to cover all repair costs for the vehicle damage from your own funds.
The situation becomes even more challenging with severe accidents that result in substantial repair bills that can be in the tens of thousands.
Medical Expense Responsibility
If you get into a car accident without car insurance and you are the at-fault driver, you are responsible for all related medical bills incurred by other drivers. This includes the medical costs of immediate treatment and any ongoing care required due to injuries.
In most car accidents involving an uninsured or underinsured driver, they'll have no way to pay the medical expenses caused by the accident, resulting in them filing for bankruptcy or having their asset seized.
Legal Fines and Penalties
Driving without insurance in Nevada can result in significant consequences such as hefty fines, reinstatement fees, license suspension, and potential jail time.
Under Nevada law, first-time offenders may be fined $250, whereas repeat offenders could face fines up to $1,000.
Additionally, if you're involved in a car accident without insurance, your license and registration can be suspended until you provide proof of insurance coverage.
Steps to Take After an Accident
If you get into a car accident without insurance, ensure everyone's safety and call 911 first, make it clear that you lack insurance, then exchange contact and insurance information with the fault party, take photos of the scene, and seek medical help if necessary.
Contact an injury attorney for guidance on claiming compensation and navigating the legal system without insurance.
Reporting to Law Enforcement
Call 911 after the accident and cooperate with the police to file an official report. Provide accurate details about the accident and exchange contact information, including insurance status, with everyone involved.
Keep a copy of the police report for your records and any legal action.
Document the Accident Scene
To avoid being the at-fault driver in any civil lawsuits, it's crucial to gather evidence to support your claim, which can be done by:
- Take photos of all vehicles involved, including angles showing vehicle damage
- Capture images of any road signs, traffic signals, and skid marks
- Collect contact details and statements from witnesses at the scene
Seek Legal Representation
If you get into a car accident without insurance, you won't have the financial protection of an insurance company, so it's crucial to avoid liability and receive compensation for your damages by working with Las Vegas personal injury attorneys.
A skilled attorney has helped you navigate the legal process of an insurance claim while defending you from liability.
Nevada Insurance Requirements
Under NRS 485.185, Nevada law requires drivers to have the following minimum coverage while driving:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $20,000 for property damage per accident
It's important to understand that underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage is not required in Nevada, but is highly recommended in protecting yourself from damages caused by an uninsured vehicle.
If you lack the above car insurance requirements, you'll be considered uninsured and could face fines and other penalties.
Proof of Insurance Verification
To show proof of insurance in Nevada, you can:
- Present a physical insurance card or digital document
- Use an insurer's mobile app or email to access electronic proof
Always have a valid proof of insurance in your vehicle to prevent penalties.
Consequences of Lapsed Policies
If your insurance policy lapses, you may face consequences such as fines and having your driver's license or vehicle registration suspended. Additionally, you might be required to file an SR-22 form to prove financial responsibility.
Obtain the Compensation You're Entitled To
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Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer is a Las Vegas personal injury law firm with over 20 years of experience helping clients obtain maximum compensation following injuries from accidents such as car crashes, worksite injuries, and slips and falls. Over those years, The Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm has become an experienced law firm that can ensure exceptional results for any of its clients.
