Like the majority of states across the country, Nevada follows a fault-based insurance system. When someone causes a traffic accident, they are financially responsible for the harm that the victims endured. To uphold this responsibility, Nevada requires all motorists to carry minimum amounts of insurance coverage.
Nevada car insurance minimums can be quite low in the context of a serious accident, leaving the policyholder on the hook for any remaining damages. If you were involved in a collision, it is important to work with a Las Vegas car accident attorney who can help you understand your coverage and identify your options for compensation.
Liability Insurance Requirements in Nevada
Nevada law requires all vehicle owners to carry liability auto insurance with minimum coverage of:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person per accident
- $50,000 for total bodily injury or death liability per accident
- $20,000 for property damage per accident
Liability coverage pays for the medical bills, property damage, and other costs of drivers, passengers, and pedestrians who are injured or have their vehicle damaged in an accident you cause. These payments only extend up to your policy limits. Once those limits are exhausted, you become personally responsible for any remaining costs.
Your liability coverage extends to family members driving your vehicle and others you have permitted to use it. It typically covers you when driving rental cars as well.
However, liability insurance does not cover your own injuries or vehicle damage after an accident. For that protection, you will need additional coverage options such as collision insurance, which can pay for repairs or replacement of your damaged vehicle.
Are You Required to Carry Uninsured Motorist Coverage?
Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage is another form of insurance available to Nevada drivers. UM coverage protects you and your passengers if you are hit by a driver with no insurance or if you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident. It primarily pays for medical expenses and related costs, but it does not cover vehicle damage. Nevada does not require UM coverage, but purchasing this optional policy can provide valuable protection if you find yourself in a tricky situation.
What Are the Penalties for Driving without Insurance?
Nevada takes insurance requirements seriously with no grace period for coverage lapses. Even a single day without insurance can result in registration suspension and a minimum $251 reinstatement fee. The state employs a tiered penalty system based on the duration of your coverage lapse and any previous lapses.
The financial consequences of driving uninsured extend far beyond these penalties. If you cause an accident without insurance, you become personally liable for all resulting damages and injuries.
Navigate the Insurance Process with The Janda Law Firm
Nevada’s car insurance laws are designed to protect those injured by negligent drivers. However, many motorists only carry these bare minimums—and some drive with no insurance whatsoever—leaving crash victims with insufficient funds for their injuries and damages.
The Janda Law Firm helps Nevada residents solve these insurance issues and more. Our Las Vegas car accident lawyer brings years of experience in talks with insurance companies and can find all possible avenues for compensation beyond basic policies. Contact us at (702) 758-8888 for a free case review with our Vegas injury attorney today and begin your legal journey.