The statute of limitations for a car accident lawsuit is two years, as outlined under NevRS §11.190(4)(e). If you fail to act within the state’s mandated deadline, you risk missing out on your chance to recover fair compensation.
Reasons to Take Prompt Legal Action
Two years might seem like a long time. However, you should consider taking legal action sooner rather than later.
Some reasons for taking prompt legal action include:
Evidence Can Disappear Over Time
To resolve your car accident claim, you may need to provide evidence that shows how the accident occurred. For instance, photos and videos of the accident scene can ultimately bolster your case. Some evidence, like traffic camera footage, may not be available for an indefinite period. It is also best to interview eyewitnesses while their memories are still fresh and they have not left the area. A lawyer can manage the evidence collection process so that you can focus on recovering from your injuries.
You Will Want to Connect Your Injuries to the Accident
You do not want to give the insurance company any reason to deny or question the validity of your injuries. Following your accident, you will want to report the incident to your insurance company as soon as you can. Furthermore, you will want to seek medical attention; the information your doctor gives you can be used to help your case. If the insurance company has any reason to question the cause of your injuries, this could delay the financial recovery process. You should do everything in your power to protect your right to compensation.
Your Lawyer Can Begin Building Your Case Earlier
The earlier you get started, the more time your lawyer has to build your case. If you bring your case to a lawyer right before the statute of limitations for a car accident lawsuit expires, they may not have the time necessary to construct a robust case.
Potentially Liable Parties in Your Car Accident Case
Most car accidents are the direct result of human error, according to the U.S. General Services Administration’s Office of Motor Vehicle Management. This means, more likely than not, another driver’s negligence caused your accident.
Some potentially liable parties in your car accident claim may include:
Another Motorist
When a motorist does not uphold their duty of care, serious collisions can occur.
The following can be considered negligent driving practices:
- Tailgating
- Distracted driving, e.g., texting or talking on a cell phone
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Driving while fatigued
- Speeding
- Failing to obey traffic signals and posted guidelines
- Engaging in road rage
A Government Municipality
A well-maintained road has clear lane dividers, even pavement, and functioning streetlights. When a road is not properly designed or maintained, it can impede motorists’ ability to drive safely. In this situation, you could have a case against the government department responsible for a roadway’s maintenance.
There could be other at-fault and liable parties than those listed above. It is important to note that the liable party could affect how long you have to file a car accident claim or lawsuit. For example, the time limit for filing a claim against a government municipality is often shorter than for filing against an individual. In some cases, there may be several deadlines of which you must be aware.
Recoverable Compensation in a Car Accident Case
The compensation to which you may be entitled depends on the circumstances of your case. However, common damages in Las Vegas car accident cases include:
- Medical bills, both current and future
- Lost wages
- Future loss of earning capacity, if your injuries required you to work fewer hours, change careers, or retire completely
- Miscellaneous expenses, such as the costs of hiring someone to take care of your children or perform work around your house
- Pain and suffering, both past and future
- Mental anguish, both past and future
Once your legal team has investigated your accident, it will be able to determine a fair amount for your case.
High Stakes Injury Law Can Handle Your Car Accident Case
Jack Bernstein and Scott Poisson have been working together to protect people’s rights since 1997. With over 60 years of combined experience, our team can help you secure a financial recovery for your collision-related damages. We can determine how your accident occurred, calculate the cost of your expenses, and fight for a fair settlement on your behalf.
Do not risk overstepping the state’s statute of limitations. You can begin exploring your legal options in one phone call. To get in touch with our legal team, call (702)-887-1712. Your initial case review is free, and you do not pay attorney’s fees unless and until you recover compensation.