From the busy Las Vegas Strip to remote desert highways, car accidents in Nevada can leave drivers and passengers with serious injuries and questions about what to do next. Understanding Nevada’s car accident and personal injury laws is essential for protecting your rights, especially when fault is disputed or injuries are long-lasting. This guide breaks down how fault is assigned, the types of compensation available, and how long you have to take legal action in Nevada.
Nevada Is an At-Fault State
Nevada follows a fault-based system when it comes to car accidents. That means the person responsible for causing the accident must pay for damages resulting from the crash. If you’re injured, you may choose to:
- File a claim with your own insurance (which may seek reimbursement later)
- File a third-party claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance
- File a personal injury lawsuit in court
To win compensation, you’ll need to prove that the other party was negligent or violated traffic laws.
Modified Comparative Negligence Rule
Nevada uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar. If you’re found 50% or less at fault for the accident, you can still recover damages—though the amount will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you’re found more than 50% at fault, you cannot recover any compensation.
For example, if your damages total $80,000 and you are found 25% at fault, you can still recover $60,000.
Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements
In Nevada, drivers are required to carry the following minimum insurance coverage:
- $25,000 for bodily injury per person
- $50,000 for bodily injury per accident
- $20,000 for property damage
Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is optional but highly recommended. This type of coverage helps pay for your losses if the other driver has no insurance or lacks adequate coverage.
Statute of Limitations in Nevada
If you’re injured in a car accident in Nevada, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For property damage claims, the deadline is three years.
If you fail to file within these timeframes, your case may be dismissed, and you could lose your right to seek compensation.
Crash Reporting Requirements in Nevada
Nevada law requires you to report a crash to police if:
- Anyone is injured or killed
- There is property damage totaling $750 or more
Police usually respond to accidents that involve injury, but if they do not, you must file a report with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days. Not reporting a qualifying crash could result in penalties or license suspension.
Nevada Personal Injury Laws
Nevada allows injured individuals to file personal injury claims if another person’s negligence caused their harm. This applies not only to car accidents but also to:
- Truck and motorcycle crashes
- Slip and fall injuries
- Medical malpractice
- Defective products
- Dog bites
Compensation may include medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Nevada generally does not cap personal injury damages, but punitive damages may be capped depending on the case.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to
After a car accident in Nevada, you may be eligible to recover both economic and non-economic damages:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning ability
- Pain and suffering
- Property repair or replacement
- Emotional distress
The exact amount you can recover depends on your injuries, level of fault, and available insurance coverage.
What Happens if the Other Driver Has No Insurance?
If you’re hit by an uninsured driver, you can still recover compensation through your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage—if your policy includes it. If the at-fault driver’s policy doesn’t fully cover your expenses, underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage can help make up the difference.
Without this coverage, you may need to file a lawsuit and pursue a personal judgment against the at-fault driver.
Can Passengers File Claims?
Yes. Passengers injured in Nevada car accidents have the same right to compensation as drivers. They can file a claim against the at-fault party—whether it’s the driver of the vehicle they were riding in or another motorist. If multiple drivers are involved, the passenger may file claims against more than one insurance policy.
Why Legal Representation Can Help
Navigating Nevada’s personal injury laws and insurance rules after a crash can be complex—especially if injuries are serious or liability is disputed. A personal injury attorney can help gather evidence, deal with insurance adjusters, and file a strong claim on your behalf. Most attorneys offer free consultations and only collect a fee if they secure compensation for you.