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Summary
You must call the police if the fender bender resulted in injuries, death, or property damage exceeding $750.
Table of Contents
Legal Requirements for Drivers Involved in Minor Accidents in Nevada
When a fender bender accident occurs, understanding the legal responsibilities you have as a driver can help protect your rights and avoid future complications, including civil lawsuits and criminal charges.
When Must You Call the Police After a Minor Accident in Las Vegas
If the minor car crash causes physical injuries, death, or vehicle damage that totals $750 or more, calling the police is required by Nevada law.
Even if you think the damage is minor, it's probably best to contact the police, as Nevada law requires any collision involving motor vehicles in which property damage exceeding $750 to be reported, which can cover minor car accidents and small accidents.
Additionally, when law enforcement is called to the scene of an accident, a police officer will gather facts, interview witnesses and drivers involved, and produce a written report that becomes a key piece of evidence for insurance company claims and potential legal action.
Failing to notify the police when required can lead to penalties, including fines or jail time, and may delay or weaken your claim against the other party.
Why Reporting a Fender Bender Could Matter in Las Vegas
Reporting a minor car accident to the police can protect your rights and help secure fair compensation.
Even a minor car accident can lead to hidden costs, minor damage, delayed injuries, and medical bills that could become apparent later.
By promptly reporting even the most minor of motor vehicle accidents to the police or DMV, you preserve evidence, ensure you are following Nevada law, and ensure a smoother claims process for yourself and your legal team.
How Reporting a Car Accident to the Police Affects Your Claim
When a fender bender accident occurs, calling 911 brings a police officer from the LVMPD or the nearest police agency, who can document the accident scene and issue any necessary citations to the drivers.
Their police report documents the location, license plate numbers, parties involved, and any injuries, giving your claim a solid factual foundation.
The police report also lists road conditions, witness statements, and other valuable information, which can help determine liability.
Other benefits of an official police report include:
- Official documentation for car insurance and medical care
- Evidence for car accident attorneys
- Faster claim processing
Once you obtain your accident report, it's a good idea to schedule a free consultation with the Las Vegas car accident attorneys from the Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm, as with over 20 years of experience, we have handled hundreds of minor to major car accident cases and can help you.
Talk with a Las Vegas car accident lawyer today by calling (702) 566-3600.
Situations Where You Should Call the Police After a Minor Car Crash
Certain situations that stem from minor car accidents require urgent police presence, especially when safety is at risk or legal matters are involved.
Prompt reporting can help protect individuals, preserve evidence, and ensure a swift resolution. Understanding these scenarios is key to making the right decision in potentially serious fender bender accidents.
Injuries or Significant Damage
If someone is injured or property damage exceeds $750, you must contact the police. Also, immediate police response helps secure evidence, assess medical care needs, and document the accident scene for insurance and legal purposes.
Call 911, provide clear details, and stay on the line until police officers arrive. A written crash report will record injuries, vehicle conditions, vehicles involved, and any other relevant factors.
A Crime Was Committed
If the driver was running from the police or they hit and ran, you must contact the police, even if the car accident didn't involve death, injuries, or property damage over $750.
Criminal actions should be immediately reported to the police, as it will improve the odds that the police will catch the criminal and hold them accountable for the damages they caused you.
Insurance Company Implications of Reporting a Minor Accident or Not
Deciding whether to file a police report after a fender bender can influence how insurance companies assess liability and coverage.
The act of reporting an accident to the police can affect claim timelines, documentation, and potential disputes over fault. Understanding these consequences can help drivers make informed choices about their next steps.
How a Police Report Protects Your Insurance Claim
An official police report records the exact time, location, and people involved in the accident, creating a factual baseline that the insurance company relies on when determining liability.
When you file a claim, that record can confirm your version of events, increasing your chances of a fair settlement.
Key details insurance adjusters look for in a police report are:
- Location and time of the incident
- Names and insurance info of all people involved
- Estimated damage to each vehicle
- Witness contact information
To ensure your police report is used to its full effectiveness in your personal injury claim, it's highly recommended that you enlist the help of a Las Vegas car accident attorney, as they can help interpret it and use it in negotiations.
What to Do If the Police Don't Show Up to Your Accident
Sometimes, police may not respond quickly after a 911 call in Las Vegas, especially after a fender bender, potentially leaving you uncertain about the next steps.
In such cases, it helps to know alternative ways to document the accident and seek assistance.
Documenting the Incident Yourself
When the police don't show up at the accident scene, you must document the accident details yourself.
Capture photos, note time, location, weather, and vehicle positions. Write down names, license plates, and insurance company info. Also, write down any statements from any witnesses and obtain their contact information.
Keep a written log of events, including your own observations and any medical checks. Store digital copies and backups. This evidence can support claims in Las Vegas fender bender cases if police fail to file a report.
Report the Accident to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles
Without an official police response to your accident, you must report the accident to the Nevada DMV, as doing so will provide you with an official report, which can be used in negotiations and determining liability.
Obtain the Compensation You're Entitled To
Contact Us Today
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.
