While it is generally advisable to contact the police and file a car crash report immediately after a crash in Nevada, there are situations where this is not possible or the police do not respond, especially if it is a minor collision. If a police investigation does not happen, you can still file a car crash claim without a police report. However, the claim may require additional steps and documentation.
Can I Still File a Car Crash Claim Without a Police Report?
Yes, it is possible to file a car crash claim with an insurance company without a police report in Nevada. Car insurance companies must respect a claimant’s right to recover compensation under the terms of a policy with or without a crash report available. However, the recovery process may look different for a victim who cannot provide a police report to support his or her claim.
When a driver calls an insurance company to report a collision, one of the first questions asked is if the driver has a copy of the police report. If the answer is no, the insurance company will ask additional questions about the collision, the parties involved, and the victim’s claimed injuries and losses. Documentation and proof of these losses will be requested.
What to Expect if You Do Not Have a Traffic Crash Report
If you need to file an insurance claim without a police report, prepare ahead of time by gathering as much information and evidence as possible. This includes the other driver’s name and address, a description of the vehicles involved, the other driver’s car insurance information, and medical records proving your injuries.
The more you document the scene of the car crash, the easier it will be to navigate to the insurance process without a police report. Before you leave, take pictures of the crash scene. Capture the positions of both vehicles, the road conditions, and any relevant traffic signs or signals. This can provide evidence to help the insurance company determine fault and liability in the absence of a police report.
Speak to eyewitnesses and write down their information. Seek immediate medical attention and obtain copies of your medical records and treatment received. Notify your car insurance company as soon as possible and provide the documentation you have collected. Avoid admitting fault if you were not at fault.
When Is a Driver Required to Report a Car Crash in Nevada?
In Nevada, state law requires drivers to report all car crashes that result in injuries, death or property damage. Car crashes must be reported to the police as soon as possible. If warranted, the police will appear at the scene to investigate and create an official police crash report. Victims can obtain copies of this report by contacting their local law enforcement agency in the days following the crash.
If the police do not investigate the car crash, the police report does not contain the other driver’s insurance information or the property damage involved exceeds $750, a crash report must also be filed with the Department of Motor Vehicles within 10 days. Filing this report is mandatory in these circumstances; failing to do so could result in a one-year suspension of the driver’s license.
Whether or not you reported a car crash and obtained a police report, a car accident lawyer in Las Vegas can assist you with the claims process. Contact Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP to schedule a free consultation with an experienced car crash lawyer.