Hit & Run Injury Lawyer Near You in Las Vegas
Hit-and-run accidents are a growing concern in Nevada, particularly in the Las Vegas area, where there is a high amount of motor vehicle traffic every day. Despite an overall 1.8% reduction in traffic collisions throughout the state, Las Vegas has experienced a troubling 6.5% increase in hit-and-run accidents. In 2023 alone, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department reported 4,621 hit-and-run accidents, which is an increase from 4,305 hit-and-run collisions in 2022. While the number of hit-and-run fatalities decreased from 29 in 2022 to 22 in 2023, hit-and-run accidents remain a significant threat to public safety.
According to Nevada state law, a hit-and-run accident occurs when a motor vehicle strikes another car, person, or object and leaves the scene without performing the duties required of them by law. These duties include stopping at the scene, providing contact information, and assisting injured individuals. Failing to fulfill these obligations that are required by law is a serious offense in Las Vegas, carrying severe consequences.
At SJW Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers, we understand the devastating impact a hit-and-run accident can have on victims and their families. If you’ve been involved in a Las Vegas hit-and-run accident, seeking the guidance of an experienced hit-and-run lawyer can help you pursue justice and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact an SJW hit-and-run accident lawyer today to have support when managing the complexities of your case with confidence.
CALL US TODAYCall Now: (702) 291-8007
Consultations are completely free
Table of Contents
Las Vegas Car Accident Response Laws
Hit-and-run laws in Las Vegas are governed by the Nevada Revised Statutes, Chapter 484E, which definitively outlines the duties of drivers involved in accidents. When drivers do not adhere to these laws after being in an accident, it is considered a hit-and-run. These laws apply to all accidents resulting in property damage, personal injury, or death. Regardless of fault, drivers must stop, exchange information, and assist injured parties when necessary. Failing to comply with these legal obligations can lead to severe penalties.
To avoid being charged with a hit-and-run in Las Vegas, when an accident results in bodily injury, Nevada law requires drivers to:
- Stop their vehicles immediately, while avoiding unnecessary disruption to traffic.
- Assist injured parties by calling 911 and making sure emergency medical services are dispatched to the scene of the accident immediately. If injured individuals cannot call for help, others involved in the accident must do so on their behalf so that they can receive medical attention as soon as possible. Not doing so could result in being responsible for the death or increased injury that resulted from not calling 911.
- Exchange essential accident information, including:
- Name
- Address
- Vehicle registration number
- Driver’s license details
- Present their driver’s license to law enforcement upon request.
Even if no one is injured, drivers involved in accidents that result in property damage still have an obligation to comply with specific legal requirements:
- Stop their vehicles and avoid obstructing traffic, if possible.
- Move their vehicles to a safe location off the road if they are still operational.
- Exchange contact and vehicle information, including name, vehicle registration, insurance, and driver’s license details.
- Notify law enforcement and provide any requested documentation.
Adhering to Nevada’s laws on how to proceed after being in an accident is essential, not only to avoid severe hit-and-run penalties, but also to fulfill moral and legal obligations. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident or need legal assistance, SJW Injury Attorneys can provide the experience and guidance you need. Contact an experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer at our firm today to ensure your rights are protected. Initial consultations are completely free.
Call Now: (702) 291-8007
Consultations are completely free
Types Of Hit-And-Run Accidents In Las Vegas, Nevada
There are three main types of hit-and-run accidents, each with unique circumstances and legal processes to follow. Determining the specific type of accident you were involved in is important to building a strong case when pursuing justice and compensation for your injuries and damages.
Hit-and-run accidents in Las Vegas generally fall into three main categories, each defined by the circumstances of the collision:
- Attended Vehicle - This type of hit-and-run accident occurs when a motor vehicle collides with another car that is actively being driven by someone else, but does not stay at the scene of the accident. Leaving the scene of such an accident without stopping, providing information, or assisting as required by law is a serious offense and has significant legal consequences.
- Unattended Vehicle - An unattended vehicle hit-and-run happens when a driver strikes, dents, or scratches a parked car and leaves without attempting to locate the owner or leaving their contact details. Although the vehicle may not be occupied, Nevada law still requires drivers to take responsibility for the damage they caused, and either wait for the driver to come to their vehicle or leave contact information in the event they want to file an insurance claim.
- Property Damage Only - This category includes hit-and-run accidents where a driver damages personal property, such as a fence, mailbox, or other objects, and then flees the scene without notifying the property owner or law enforcement.
No matter the type of hit-and-run accident, the legal implications can be complex and have serious consequences. At SJW Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers Las Vegas, an experienced hit-and-run injury attorney on our team can thoroughly examine the details of your accident, identify the type of hit-and-run accident, and advise you on the best course of action. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, personal injury, or more complex scenarios, we are here to guide you every step of the way.
Call Now: (702) 291-8007
Consultations are completely free
Las Vegas Hit-And-Run Penalties
The consequences of a hit-and-run in Las Vegas vary significantly based on the severity of the accident and the resulting damages. Nevada law imposes penalties designed to deter drivers from fleeing the scene and ensure accountability for their actions. Below is an overview of the legal repercussions based on the type of accident:
Hit-And-Run Involving Bodily Injury or Death
Hit-and-run accidents in Nevada that result in bodily injury or death carry serious legal penalties, including:
- Prison Time - Drivers convicted of a hit-and-run involving bodily injury or death will face a minimum prison sentence of 2 years, up to a maximum of 20 years. Suspended sentences are not allowed, meaning time will be served.
- Fines - Fines for this offense range from $2,000 to $5,000.
- Felony Conviction - Such cases result in a Class B felony conviction.
- License Points - Points will be added to the driver’s license, potentially leading to further penalties.
Hit-And-Run Involving Property Damage
A hit-and-run accident that involves property damage, while not as egregious as bodily injury or death, still has serious consequences, including:
- Misdemeanor Conviction - Property damage hit-and-runs are classified as misdemeanors and will appear on the offender's criminal record.
- Jail Time - Those who commit a hit-and-run offense involving property damage can face up to six months in jail.
- Fines - Fines can be as high as $1,000.
- License Points - Six points will be added to the driver’s license.
- License Suspension - Failing to report the hit-and-run accident may result in a license suspension for up to one year.
Collateral Consequences of A Hit-And-Run In Las Vegas, NV
In addition to the legal penalties, drivers found guilty of a hit-and-run in Las Vegas often face significant collateral consequences that can impact their personal and professional lives. These may include:
- Increased Insurance Premiums - A hit-and-run conviction may result in substantial increases in auto insurance premiums or even a policy cancellation. This may make it difficult to afford to keep your vehicle after being convicted of a hit-and-run.
- Civil Liability - Beyond criminal penalties, drivers may be held financially responsible for damages in civil lawsuits filed by victims.
- Loss of Employment Opportunities - A criminal record, especially a felony hit-and-run conviction, can make it challenging to find or maintain employment, particularly in fields requiring a clean driving record or passing a background check.
- Damage to Reputation - A hit-and-run conviction can also tarnish an individual’s reputation within their community, at work, among friends, and with family.
- Stress and Emotional Toll - The consequences of a hit-and-run conviction, including legal proceedings, financial strain, and social stigma, can cause significant stress and emotional distress for the offender.
Contact A Las Vegas Hit-And-Run Injury Lawyer Near You
Committing a hit-and-run in Nevada carries serious consequences that can impact a driver’s freedom, finances, and driving privileges. If you have been a victim of a hit-and-run, a Las Vegas hit-and-run injury lawyer at SJW Injury Attorneys is here to help. Our Las Vegas car accident lawyers have the experience required to manage these complicated cases.
Call Now: (702) 291-8007
Consultations are completely free
What Happens If The Driver Who Hit Me Is Never Found?
Recovering compensation after a hit-and-run accident can be challenging, especially if the driver who fled the scene cannot be found and held responsible. Normally, filing an insurance claim or lawsuit against a negligent driver is the primary way to obtain compensation for injuries and property damage caused by their actions. However, in a hit-and-run scenario, the absence of the other driver complicates the process of receiving compensation. However, there are options for pursuing compensation if the driver that committed a hit-and-run cannot be found or held responsible.
Insurance Options For Hit-And-Run Victims
Even if the driver is never found, you may still have options to recover compensation through your own insurance policy, if you have the right coverage. One key avenue is uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which is designed to protect you in cases where:
- The at-fault driver does not have insurance
- The at-fault driver cannot be identified after they fled from the scene
- A hit-and-run accident is treated similarly to an uninsured motorist accident, as there is no other insurance company to file a claim against. If you have uninsured motorist coverage, you can file a claim with your own insurer to help cover your damages, including:
- Past and future medical expenses
- Past and future lost wages
- Property damage
While pursuing a claim through your own coverage can provide financial relief, it is not always straightforward. Insurance companies may dispute the extent of your losses or attempt to minimize the payout. An experienced hit-and-run accident lawyer at SJW Injury Attorneys can help guide you through the process of seeking compensation after a hit-and-run accident, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call Now: (702) 291-8007
Consultations are completely free
Injured In A Hit-And-Run? Contact A Las Vegas Hit-And-Run Lawyer Near You
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Las Vegas, Nevada, whether the responsible driver is identified or not, the experienced team at SJW Injury Attorneys is here. A knowledgeable hit-and-run injury attorney from our team understands the challenges victims face after such accidents, and they are committed to guiding you through every step of the legal process. From exploring your insurance options to pursuing compensation for your injuries and losses after the accident, we’ll provide legal assistance to ensure your rights are protected. Let us handle the complexities of your case so you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
Testimonials About Our Las Vegas Injury Law Firm
"This accident/injury Law Firm will forever be a part of our family . When in an accident you do the initial steps and for myself well …I was nervous about my car , my injuries, and everything else that comes with an accident on the road. On top of this my case couldn’t have been more work on all of the awesome lawyers at SJW . The wonderful thing is that I didn’t feel the pressure of anything . Everything from the initial phase of getting physical therapy , my car repairs , and to the closing settlement was So smooth . A previous time I had the worst circumstances ever and a previous lawyer was not able to find the driver or even be willing to investigate and the time span of everything with SJW was the opposite and I didn’t have to go to litigation or even a deposition in which Those are never comfortable. I have my trust forever in this law firm and highly recommend Shawn Walkenshaw and anyone else who represents SJW."
Samantha O
Just one of our many client reviews: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ "Shawn Walkenshaw was my lawyer. He helped me through the years of pain and anguish from my accident. He was supportive and truly concerned and helped me get through it. In the end he stood up for me and I am starting the road to recovery. Thank You for being there for me. SJW is the best injury attorney firm in Las Vegas." -Lisa E. on Google
SJW Car Accident & Personal Injury Lawyers Las Vegas has a 5.0 rating from 108 total reviews on Google Maps.
