Accidents usually occur without any notice and can be detrimental to all those involved. Motor vehicle accidents can be even more detrimental and lead to serious injuries or even death. We at the Law Offices of Garrett T. Ogata believe that our clients deserve all of the reimbursement they are entitled to when involved in a motor vehicle accident. Insurance companies can be difficult to deal with, but having an experienced personal injury attorney at your side can tip the scales in your favor.
Nevada Revised Statute (NRS) 485.3091 handles motor vehicle insurance policies and sets forth the rules that insurance companies and the insured must abide by. However, there are several steps to take before the insurance companies are notified of the accident. These steps can make the difference between a great settlement and a meager one.
Call 911 immediately following the accident.
Ask the responding police officer to make a report of the accident.
Get contact and insurance information from everyone involved in the accident.
Get the contact information of everyone that witnessed the accident.
Take photographs of the entire accident scene and of any damage that occurred to the vehicles.
As soon as everyone is out of harm’s way and contact information has been gathered, it is time to call your lawyer. We at the Law Offices of Garrett T. Ogata have attorneys experienced in handling personal injury cases. Do not ever give a statement to any insurance company. If they call requesting one, politely let them know that your attorney will be contacting them.
NRS 485.3091 stipulates that minimum insurance policy limits in Nevada is up to $15,000 for one person injured, up to $30,000 for two persons or more in any one accident injured and up to $10,000 for property damage caused by the accident. Insurance companies will attempt to take advantage of people not well-versed in the law by offering them settlements far lower to the ones they deserve. Even your own insurance company may try to avoid paying for damages. Therefore, it is important to not go it alone when facing off with large insurance companies.
If possible there are several DOs and DON’Ts to try to abide by:
DO seek medical attention if necessary
DO summon the police if appropriate and ask for a report
DO get the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved
DO exchange your information and insurance and be polite
DO get personal information of all witnesses
DO take photographs of property damages and personal injuries (use cellphone’s video & camera)
DO contact your attorney
DON’T move your vehicle unless necessary for safety or required by law
DON’T stand in harm’s way on the road, stand somewhere safe
DON’T discuss fault with anyone and DON’T apologize for anything (this may be used against you)
DON’T agree to any settlement terms without contacting your attorney
This may seem like a lot of things to remember and coupled with stress and injuries may make it hard to do. Is sum, try to get as much information as you can and do not make any statements of guilt or apologize for anything.
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