A car accident in Henderson can turn your life upside down in seconds. Whether it’s a minor fender-bender or a serious collision, knowing what to do immediately after an accident can help protect your health, your legal rights, and your potential compensation. At DRS, we help injured Nevadans navigate the legal process and secure the justice they deserve. Here’s a step-by-step guide to follow if you’ve been involved in a car accident in Henderson.
Prioritize Safety and Check for Injuries
Your health and the safety of others come first. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately and request medical assistance. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal bleeding, may not be immediately noticeable.
If it’s safe to do so, move your vehicle out of traffic to prevent further danger. Turn on your hazard lights and set up warning triangles or flares if you have them.
Call Law Enforcement
Under Nevada law, you must report an accident to law enforcement if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $750. In Henderson, a police officer will document the scene, gather statements, and file an official accident report. This report will be a key piece of evidence if you later file a personal injury claim.
Request the names and badge numbers of the officers at the scene, and ask how to obtain a copy of the accident report.
Exchange Information
Collect the following information from all drivers involved in the accident:
- Full name and contact information
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license and license plate number
- Make, model, and color of each vehicle
Avoid discussing fault or making statements about what caused the accident. These details can be interpreted in ways that may hurt your case later.
Document the Scene
Use your phone to take photos or videos of the accident scene from multiple angles, including:
- Vehicle damage
- Road conditions
- Traffic signs or signals
- Skid marks or debris
- Visible injuries
Also, take notes about the location, weather, and time of day. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information as well.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to get a medical evaluation as soon as possible. Some injuries take hours or even days to appear. Delaying treatment can hurt both your health and your legal claim. Medical records will also serve as important evidence in your case.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider promptly, but be cautious about what you say. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries. If another driver’s insurer contacts you, do not give a statement without speaking to an attorney first.
Contact a Car Accident Attorney in Henderson
Before accepting any settlement offer or dealing further with insurance companies, speak with an experienced car accident attorney in Henderson. At DRS , we can help you understand your legal options, investigate your accident, and pursue full compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Our firm has a proven track record of advocating for accident victims across Nevada. We know how to handle insurance companies and build strong cases that get results.