Is it Possible to Pursue an Auto Injury Claim in Nevada without Insurance if I'm Not at Fault?

It is rather surprising that a significant number of drivers in Nevada choose to forgo auto insurance, despite its mandatory requirement under state law. If you find yourself involved in a car accident in Nevada, there is approximately a 10% chance that the other driver involved will lack the insurance coverage necessary to address their liability in causing the accident.

So, what does this mean for individuals who experience an accident with an uninsured driver in Nevada? Here's what you should know, provided by a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer in Las Vegas.

What Occurs in a Nevada Car Accident if a Driver is Uninsured?

Following a car accident where one or more drivers are uninsured, certain aspects of the process will resemble those when all involved drivers possess the legally required insurance policy. However, the owner or operator of the uninsured vehicle exposes themselves to fines and other penalties for violating Nevada's obligation to carry an insurance policy for their vehicle.

What if I'm Insured and the At-Fault Party is Uninsured?

In any car accident, law enforcement officers, your car accident attorney, and relevant insurance adjusters will conduct an investigation to determine which party is at fault for the accident and, consequently, liable for the resulting damage and injuries sustained by other drivers. If you have been struck by an uninsured driver who is found to be responsible for the accident, you can still file a claim against them.

Unfortunately, this process can prove more intricate than when the at-fault driver is insured. Therefore, it is crucial to have a seasoned attorney by your side, offering guidance and representation to ensure the best possible outcome. Your attorney will assist you in initiating a claim against the liable party, thereby commencing the legal process of securing judgments in your favor. The court will begin by examining the assets of the at-fault driver, and they may even order the seizure of the assets of the uninsured driver to partially compensate for your damages. Additionally, the uninsured driver may be mandated to make regular payments to you over a specified period.

In the event of injury caused by an uninsured driver, it is also worthwhile to review your own insurance policy. Many auto insurance companies offer coverage for uninsured motorists, allowing you to receive compensation from your own policy in the event of injury caused by an uninsured driver unable to fully compensate you for your damages. Once you have been compensated by your insurance provider for an uninsured motorist claim, your insurer may seek to recover some of their losses from the uninsured driver responsible through a process known as subrogation.

What if You Have Insurance and You're at Fault?

If an insured driver is at fault for an accident involving an uninsured driver, the uninsured driver can still pursue a claim against you to seek compensation for their damages. Your insurance should cover the uninsured driver's claims up to the limits stated in your policy. To gain a better understanding of the potential outcomes in such circumstances, it is advisable to consult a car accident lawyer in Las Vegas.

What Are the Consequences of Driving Without Insurance?

Opting to operate a vehicle without the mandated insurance coverage is a serious matter. All drivers present at the accident scene will be required to provide proof of insurance to responding police officers. Failure to carry insurance is considered a misdemeanor offense and can result in a fine of $100 for a first offense or up to $1,000 for subsequent offenses. Additionally, the Department of Motor Vehicles may initiate the process of suspending the offender's driver's license, which can pose significant challenges when it comes to commuting to work or school.

If you have been injured in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, rest assured that you have legal options. It is crucial to reach out to an experienced lawyer for a case evaluation and to discuss the necessary steps to take.

Contact a Knowledgeable Car Accident Lawyer in Las Vegas

If you have been involved in an accident caused by an uninsured driver, you may be uncertain about how to seek compensation for your damages and injuries. Fortunately, there are means to obtain the necessary coverage. For these cases the assistance of knowledgeable attorneys will be adequate to help you explore your legal options and provide you with expert guidance on the next course of action. Through this you will be able to achieve the best possible outcome for your car accident case in Nevada.