What Happens If Someone Leaves the Scene of an Accident?

October 16, 2024 Car Accidents

A hit and run occurs when a driver involved in an accident flees the scene without stopping to identify themselves or exchange information with the other parties involved. These incidents can leave victims facing medical bills, property damage, and uncertainty about recovering compensation. In Nevada, fleeing an accident scene transforms a common collision into a serious criminal offense. If you’ve been in an accident with a driver who has fled the scene, make sure to contact a Las Vegas car accident attorney as soon as possible.

Legal Consequences of Hit and Run Collisions

Nevada law requires all drivers involved in accidents to stop, exchange information, and assist injured parties. Failing to fulfill these obligations carries harsh penalties that escalate based on the severity of the accident:

• According to Nevada Revised Statute 484E.020, drivers who flee accident scenes involving only property damage face misdemeanor charges. A conviction can carry up to six months in jail, $1,000 in fines, and six points added to their driving record.
• According to Nevada Revised Statute 484E.10, when accidents result in injuries or death, perpetrators face felony charges. Depending on the severity of the offense, this can lead to at least two years in prison, up to a maximum of 20 years, as well as fines of up to $5,000 and license revocation.

Beyond criminal penalties, hit and run drivers are financially liable for all damages that the victims of the accident sustained. They will also likely face license suspension and increased insurance premiums for fleeing the scene. 

Uninsured Motorist Coverage and Hit and Runs in Nevada

Nevada operates under a fault-based system for car accidents, and victims typically pursue insurance claims or lawsuits against negligent parties. However, when the responsible party cannot be identified, victims still have options for compensation.

Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is an optional form of insurance in Nevada. If you are injured by a hit and run driver and you possess a UM policy, you can file a claim under this coverage and recover compensation for some of your damages. This insurance helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering when the at-fault driver remains unknown.

However, UM coverage does not cover vehicle damage. In these situations, you can file a claim under your collision coverage if you have the appropriate policy. While all of these forms of insurance are optional, they are important investments—especially if you cannot identify a hit and run driver. 

Steps to Take If You’re a Hit and Run Victim

The moments after a hit and run can be scary, but it is important to remain calm, seek help, and take steps to protect your legal rights. Take the following actions if you are involved in an accident and someone flees the scene:

• Call 911 immediately to report the incident and request emergency medical attention if needed.
• Write down every detail about the fleeing vehicle, including make, model, color, and partial license plate numbers.
• Take photographs of all vehicle damage, debris at the scene, and any visible injuries.
• Look for nearby security cameras that may have captured the incident.
• Collect contact information from any witnesses who observed the collision.
• File a police report and obtain a copy for insurance purposes.
• Contact a Las Vegas injury lawyer to discuss your next steps.

If you are injured in a hit and run, an attorney can provide crucial support, from trying to find the responsible party to helping you file a UM claim. Contact a Las Vegas, Nevada hit and run accident lawyer as soon as possible to plan your next steps.