Car accidents can be overwhelming, and it’s natural to feel disoriented in the immediate aftermath. However, it’s essential to be aware of your responsibilities of what to do after a car accident, including reporting the accident to the police. In the state of Nevada, there are specific guidelines regarding the timeframe for filing a police report after a car accident. In certain circumstances, it might be acceptable to file the report a few days after the accident, but in other situations, the accident must be reported right away. Even if you are legally allowed to wait, it is still always recommended you file your report as soon as possible after your motorcycle, truck, or car accident.
For detailed instructions on filing online, over the phone, or in-person, read our guides to file a police report Las Vegas, how to file police report online in Boulder City, NV, and how to file a police report online in Henderson, Nevada.
How Long Do You Have to Report a Car Accident in Nevada?
In the state of Nevada, the law requires you to report a car accident to the police immediately if:
- There are injuries or fatalities involved.
- The accident resulted in property damage exceeding $750.
If you have been involved in a minor car accident with no injuries and minimal property damage, immediate police involvement may not be necessary. However, you are still required to exchange information with the other party involved, such as names, addresses, insurance details, and vehicle information. The best way to contact the police after you’ve been in a car accident is to call 911. Otherwise, call 311 or the NHP at *647.
You are also expected to file a Nevada DMV Report of Traffic Accident Report (SR-1) within 10 days of the date of the motor vehicle accident where one or both of the above circumstances have occurred either injuries or significant property damage. Failure to do so could result in a 1-year suspension of your license.
Filing a Police Report Because You Were Hurt in an Accident in Nevada?
If you or a loved one were hurt in an accident and need to file a police report, keep in mind that this document is crucial for insurance claims and potential legal actions arising from the event. Understanding what details to include (or exclude) can be challenging. We can walk you through it and help you file it for 100% free (with absolutely no obligation). Simply tell us your contact info here and we’ll reach out to you.
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Can You File a Police Report After a Car Accident in Nevada?
Yes, you can file a police report days after a motor vehicle accident in Nevada, as long as it doesn’t fit into the two categories listed above, and it’s crucial to understand that there are time limitations. It is almost always advisable to report the accident as soon as possible to ensure that all necessary information is accurately documented. Prompt reporting can also help law enforcement assess the situation more effectively. They will investigate the incident, gather evidence, and create an official accident report.
What Happens If You Don’t File a Police Report After an Accident in Nevada?
Failure to file a police report when required can lead to legal consequences and complications. There are 3 major potential issues that could arise should you neglect to file a proper crash report after a car accident.
- Legal Consequences: You may be subject to fines, penalties, or even criminal charges if you do not report an accident as required by Nevada law.
- Insurance Complications: Delaying or failing to report an accident can affect your insurance claim. Insurance companies often require timely reporting of accidents to process claims efficiently and will use a delayed crash report as a way to deny a claim.
- Lack of Evidence: Without a police report, it may be challenging to prove fault or negligence in a legal dispute, which could affect your ability to recover damages.
What Happens If You Don’t Call the Police After an Accident?
Depending on the circumstances, you may not need to call the police, and in fact, they will not attend an accident scene at all if the accident is a minor fender bender where no one has been injured and no real damage has occurred. However, even in such cases, it is essential to exchange information with the other party involved. This information includes names, addresses, insurance details, and vehicle information. Failure to do so can still lead to complications if you later discover hidden damages or injuries.
Looking for a Nevada Police Report? Explore Our Guides to Downloading Nevada Accident Reports
After the police have filed their own report, you will want a copy for your own records. Your insurance company and car accident lawyer will want copies as well. Obtaining a copy of your accident report varies depending on where the accident took place. Follow our guides to see exactly how to pull the right accident report you need:
- How to Get a Police Report in Las Vegas Online
- How to Get a Nevada Highway Patrol Accident Report Online
- How to Request a Henderson Nevada Police Report Online
Still Have Questions? Contact A Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer Near You
Understanding how long you have to file a police report after a car accident in Nevada is vital for both your legal obligations and ensuring a smooth claims process. While you can report an accident days after it occurs, it is generally advisable to do so promptly, especially in cases involving injuries, fatalities, or substantial property damage. By adhering to these reporting requirements, you can help protect your rights and ensure that any necessary investigations are conducted accurately. If you have been involved in a car accident and are looking for more information on the crash report process or have questions about typical Nevada car accident settlements we invite you to contact SJW Car Accident & Injury Attorneys Las Vegas online or call (702) 291-8007.
