In Las Vegas, Nevada, you must stop right away after an accident and exchange your name, address, vehicle registration, and driver’s license with the other parties. If anyone is hurt, help them get medical attention and call the police if needed. If police aren’t present, report the accident yourself—leaving without doing these things can lead to serious criminal charges.
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Leaving the scene of the accident is a serious offense with significant legal and personal consequences.
Whether the accident involves property damage, injury, or worse, understanding your responsibilities at the accident scene is crucial.
This article outlines essential steps to take before leaving the scene of the accident, the potential criminal and civil penalties you may face, and how an experienced car accident lawyer can help protect your rights and achieve a favorable outcome.
11 Things Before Leaving the Scene of the Accident
Before leaving the scene of an accident, it’s crucial to take certain steps to ensure everyone’s safety, fulfill legal obligations, and protect your rights. Properly handling the situation can help prevent serious legal consequences and support any future claims or proceedings.
Here are 11 things to do before leaving the scene of the accident:
1. Ensure Safety and Check for Injuries
After any motor vehicle accident, your first priority is safety. Check yourself and passengers for injuries. If someone is hurt, provide reasonable assistance but avoid moving them unnecessarily to prevent further harm.
Assess the accident scene’s safety. If possible, move to a safe area away from traffic and turn on hazard lights. Stay alert to oncoming vehicles and avoid dangerous spots.
Rendering aid shows your commitment to legal obligations and helps prevent additional injuries.
2. Call Emergency Services
Always call 911, especially if there is significant property damage or injury. Provide clear details about the location, number of vehicles, and condition of those injured.
Promptly notifying emergency services ensures quick medical help and police response. Even minor injuries warrant caution and a call for assistance.
Emergency responders also help manage traffic and secure the scene.
Related: Who to Call When in a Car Accident (6 Must-Make Calls)
3. Move Vehicles if Safe and Required
If the accident caused only minor property damage and no serious injuries, move vehicles to a safe spot like the shoulder or a parking lot.
Do not move vehicles if there are major injuries, significant property damage, or if state law prohibits it until police arrive.
Moving vehicles prematurely can hinder investigations and violate legal obligations. Always prioritize safety and follow law enforcement instructions.
4. Exchange Information with All Parties
Exchanging information is legally required and essential for insurance claims. Share your name, address, driver’s license number, vehicle registration, and insurance details with other drivers.
Collect the same information from them. If an unattended vehicle or property was damaged, try to find the owner or leave a written notice with your contact info.
Documenting license plates and insurance protects your rights and facilitates communication. Failing to provide this information can lead to criminal charges.
5. Gather Evidence from the Accident Scene
Collecting evidence supports insurance claims and legal defense. Note the exact time and location, weather and road conditions, vehicle positions, and damage.
- Record License Plate Numbers: Write down the license plate numbers of all vehicles involved, including any hit and run driver, to assist in identification.
- Observe Skid Marks and Debris: Look for skid marks, debris, or damage to fixed objects at the accident scene to help reconstruct how the accident occurred.
- Document Environmental Conditions: Take note of weather, lighting, and road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
- Preserve Information Carefully: Keep all collected evidence secure and organized as it may be crucial in disputes about fault or serious consequences.
6. Document Witness Statements
Witnesses provide objective accounts that can clarify the accident. Approach bystanders or other drivers who saw the collision and ask for their contact information.
Write down their names, phone numbers, and addresses. If possible, record or note their statements immediately to capture details accurately.
Respect witnesses and avoid leading questions. Reliable statements can strengthen your case and support your legal rights.
7. Notify Law Enforcement
Many states require police notification if the accident involves significant property damage, bodily injury, or death.
Even if police are present, ensure they have been called. An official report documents the accident for insurance and legal purposes.
Cooperate with officers by providing accurate information, but avoid admitting fault or speculating. Obtain the police report or incident number as important evidence for your case.
8. Take Photos and Videos
Visual documentation captures important details. Use your phone or camera to photograph all vehicles, focusing on damage, license plates, and surroundings. Include images of skid marks, road signs, traffic signals, and any fixed objects hit. Photograph your injuries or those of others if applicable.
These visuals serve as valuable evidence for insurance, attorneys, or courts. Take multiple angles and keep files secure.
9. Avoid Admitting Fault
Do not admit fault or apologize at the scene, even if you think you may be partially responsible.
Statements made immediately after an accident can be used against you in legal or insurance proceedings.
Focus on exchanging information, documenting the scene, and cooperating with law enforcement. Fault determination is complex and involves investigation, witness statements, and expert analysis. Maintaining neutrality protects your rights and supports a fair outcome.
10. Obtain a Police Report or Incident Number
After notifying law enforcement, request a copy of the police report or at least the incident number.
This official record includes parties involved, scene descriptions, witness info, and preliminary findings. It is essential for insurance claims and any legal actions. Keep the report organized and accessible as valuable evidence.
11. Contact Your Insurance Company
Report the accident promptly to protect your coverage and start the claims process.
Provide accurate details about the accident, including time, location, parties involved, and injuries or damage. Share the police report or incident number if available. Cooperate with your insurer’s investigation but avoid giving recorded statements or signing documents without legal advice.
Early notification helps prevent claim denial and supports timely compensation for medical bills, repairs, and other losses.
Keep detailed records of all communications with your insurer.
Criminal Charges for Leaving the Scene of an Accident
When a driver leaves the scene of an accident, they may face serious criminal charges depending on the severity of the incident. These charges are designed to hold drivers accountable for their legal obligations and to ensure that injured parties receive necessary aid and compensation.
Criminal Penalties
Criminal penalties for leaving the scene of an accident can vary widely based on factors such as the extent of property damage, whether any person was injured, and if the accident resulted in death. Key points include:
- Misdemeanor charges are common for accidents involving only property damage, often punishable by up to six months in jail.
- Felony charges apply if the accident resulted in serious injuries or death, with penalties including significant jail time, fines, and possible probation.
- A felony offense may also lead to additional consequences such as license suspension and a permanent criminal record.
- The law requires drivers to provide reasonable assistance and medical aid to injured persons at the scene.
Civil Penalties
In addition to criminal charges, drivers who leave the scene may face civil penalties that include:
- Lawsuits filed by injured persons or other involved parties seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
- Potential punitive damages designed to punish particularly reckless behavior, which are often not covered by insurance.
- Requirement to pay restitution to victims for property damage and personal injury.
- Increased insurance premiums or policy cancellation by many insurance companies following a hit and run incident.
Driver’s License
Administrative penalties related to the driver’s license often accompany criminal and civil penalties:
- Automatic suspension or revocation of the driver’s license for a period that can range from several months up to years, depending on the severity of the accident.
- Points added to the driver’s license record, which can affect insurance rates and driving privileges.
- Requirement to complete driver safety courses or other rehabilitation programs before license reinstatement.
- Some states may impose lifetime revocation for severe cases involving fatal accidents or repeated offenses.
Victim of a Hit and Run in Las Vegas? We Hold Hit and Run Drivers Accountable
At Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas, we hold hit and run drivers accountable. Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense with severe consequences.
Our experienced team of car accident attorneys understands Nevada law and aggressively pursues claims involving property damage, personal injury, and wrongful death from hit and run incidents. We provide clear legal guidance, helping clients navigate criminal charges, insurance claims, and civil lawsuits.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a hit and run, contact us today for trusted representation and a commitment to a favorable outcome.
Hit and Run Accident Frequently Asked Questions
If I leave the scene of the accident, do I need a criminal defense attorney?
Leaving the scene, or a “hit and run,” is a serious offense in Nevada. Even if the accident seems minor, you may face criminal charges. Consulting a criminal defense attorney promptly can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process.
If I was the victim of a hit and run, should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Yes. Hit and run cases can be complex since the at-fault driver is often unknown. A car accident lawyer can help gather evidence, work with law enforcement, and pursue compensation through your insurance or other means.
Will my insurance cover damages if the hit and run driver isn’t found?
Possibly. Uninsured motorist (UM) and collision coverage may pay for medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. We can review your policy and assist with filing a claim to ensure you receive rightful compensation.
Contact an Auto Accident Attorney
Involved in a hit and run accident? The consequences can be overwhelming, but you’re not alone.
Ladah Injury & Car Accident Lawyers Las Vegas specialize in hit and run cases, protecting your rights and helping secure compensation for property damage, medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Our dedicated legal team guides you through the legal process, fights criminal charges, negotiates with insurers, and pursues civil lawsuits—so you can focus on recovery.
Contact us for a free consultation. Let us help hold hit and run drivers accountable and achieve the outcome you deserve. Call now or fill out our online form.
