Las Vegas hit and run accidents are not uncommon. In this city, where there are many people from around the world visiting, drinking, and using substances, it is easy to see why car accidents in general occur here. Hit and run accidents may not be common, but they do occur, and when they happen, victims need to know what to do about them. Talk to a Las Vegas car accident attorney at Bighorn Law today.
Where Hit and Run Accidents Happen in Las Vegas
Hit and run accidents occur throughout the city of Las Vegas, including in the Downtown South area, the West Las Vegas area, and along Angel Park. It can occur in North Las Vegas as well. Many times, a hit and run accident will occur in residential and commercial areas, but they can happen along I-11 or I-215 as well.
How Hit and Run Accidents Occur in Las Vegas
Hit and run accidents occur when one car strikes a victim, often in another vehicle, a pedestrian, or a bike rider, and then they flee the scene. If a person fails to do so, they could be committing a crime under NRS 484E.020. There are penalties for this action, including up to six months in jail for a misdemeanor conviction. In situations where bodily injury or death occurs, and a person flees the scene, they could face 2 to 20 years in prison.
Victim Recovery After a Hit and Run Accident
In situations where you are the victim and are struck by a driver who flees the scene, call the police, report the incident, and then get the medical care you need. In taking these steps, you help to document what occurred to you while also getting the care you need at a critical time.
You may be able to pursue compensation from the at-fault party if the police can determine who that is. It may take some time for them to locate that party, but with video cameras, traffic cameras, and witnesses, it may be possible for them to do so.
If they cannot determine who caused your hit and run accident, you may be able to file a claim through your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This is a policy you pay for that provides you with financial support in situations where the other driver is not covered by liability insurance, does not have enough liability insurance, or the other driver is unknown.
Working with a Hit and Run Accident Attorney in Las Vegas May Help
Those who are hurt in a hit and run accident may benefit from seeking out the support of a local Las Vegas car accident attorney with hit and run experience. This will enable hands-on support as they try to navigate their rights to full and fair compensation after this type of injury occurs.
If you are hurt in a hit and run accident in Las Vegas, recognize the risks are higher in getting the compensation owed to you. Having a local attorney available to guide you can be critical throughout this process. Call the office of Bighorn Law today to schedule a free consultation.