What is a Fender Bender?
Fender-benders are often considered minor accidents that do not involve serious injuries or damages and are not often taken seriously. They usually involve damages to the corner panels or front or rear bumpers. However, while the initial damages may seem small, such an accident can become a big issue.
Depending on the circumstances, a fender-bender may cost around $2,500 to $10,000. And although Nevada law holds the negligent driver accountable to pay for the losses, getting fair compensation following a fender-bender can be challenging. That’s why it is imperative to take the right steps following a fender-bender in Nevada.
This article will take a detailed look at how to reach and the steps following a fender-bender accident in Nevada.
The Right Steps Following a Fender-Bender Accident in Nevada!
Ensure Everyone’s Safe and Call 911
The first step requires you to check if you or the passengers are injured. Call 911 immediately or ask a passerby if you’re injured. It also involves calling emergency services to seek medical attention. Even minor car accidents in Nevada require you to call the police. In fact, in some states, it is required by law.
Research shows that adrenaline can conceal even a serious injury’s symptoms. That’s why it is important to monitor yourself closely following a fender-bender.
Gather On-Site Evidence
While you wait for the police, take photos of your vehicle, the other vehicle’s number plate, the nearby traffic lights, signs, or anything that might help to gather evidence about the damage and prove the other driver did not follow the rules. If you’re unable to do it, ask someone else. Being able to prove you are not at fault with an accident report is vital to this process which is why police reports and other statements are very critical.
Seek Medical Treatment
Some of the most frequent injuries caused by fender-benders include back injuries, concussions, and whiplash. Therefore, delaying seeking medical treatment will only worsen the situation. While you seek treatment, ensure that your doctor documents all sustained injuries. Remember that these injuries can often manifest over a few days or weeks after any adrenaline from the accident wears off and you start to realize soreness.
Exchange Information
Exchange information using careful language with the other driver before leaving the accident scene. This requires exchanging each other’s names, contacts, addresses, or anything you feel may be relevant. Most importantly, do not apologize, which is usually a first instinct or simple manners. But your apology may act in the other party’s favor. Instead, you can check if they’re okay and exchange general information like vehicle registration, insurance cards, drivers licenses and contact information. You want to also get this information from any potential witnesses at the scene, other drivers, pedestrians or first responders who may stop and assist you.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company immediately right after the accident. Damages that may require minor repairs can become extensive; therefore, you must notify the insurer. If the other party asks for money for the damages, politely decline. Your insurer will guide you on the insurance claim and what to expect.
Hire an Experienced Car Accident Lawyer
As discussed above, obtaining fair compensation for vehicle damage, medical bills, and other losses resulting from a fender-bender in Nevada can be challenging as the insurance company is trained to pay you as little as possible. Hiring an experienced personal injury attorney ensures your rights are protected from the start and throughout the insurance claim process.
Need a Personal Injury lawyer in Nevada?
Contact the Bourassa Law Group team of skilled and experienced personal injury attorneys providing top-notch personalized services to their clients in Los Angeles and beyond. The car accident lawyers at the Bourassa Law Group will fight for your rights to ensure you get fair compensation for your damages.
Call 1-800-870-8910 immediately following a fender-bender in Nevada and talk to an experienced attorney!
