Las Vegas Hit & Run Accident

Leaving the scene of an accident with out stopping to to engage in the required procedures after an accident can lead to serious federal consequences for that driver.
When any type of motor vehicle accident occurs, state and federal laws require the drivers involved to remain at the scene and to follow orderly procedures after the crash. When a driver leaves the scene, they are engaging in a hit-and-run, and are risking serious consequences. Federal research has shown that hit and run accidents are on the rise, and have increased by 15% since 2000. The city of Las Vegas has experienced a disproportionate growth of hit and runs, at an increased rate of a whopping 45% since 2001.

Nevada state laws forbid a driver from leaving the scene of an accident. Laws state that “a driver is involved in a motor vehicle accident that causes bodily injury or death must stop immediately at or close to the accident scene as possible. He must stay at the accident scene until each of the requirements listed in NRS 4.84.223 have been fulfilled.”

Those requirements include providing contact information such as name and address, as well as the vehicle registration number. The preceding information must also be surrendered to any police officer that may be investigating the scene of the accident. Motorists must also provide any person that is injured with a reasonable amount of assistance, such as transportation arrangements or transportation to a medical or hospital facility.

If a driver has fulfilled all of their duties and a police officer is not present at the scene, the accident must be reported to the closest Nevada Highway Patrol or police station. If a motorist fails to fulfill their requirements, he or she will be considered to be guilty of a category B felony. This type of crime results in a penalty of a fine of $2,000 to $5,000 and/or imprisonment of two to 15 years.

Being involved in an accident can be frightening, especially when the other motorist has left you alone to deal with your injuries. If you have been the victim of a hit and run accident you can get compensation for your injuries, even if you don't know who hit you. Speak with your insurance company and an experienced attorney who can help you retain payment of damages.