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Experienced Las Vegas Uninsured Accident Lawyers Near You
When a motorist hits you in a car accident, it's already a bad situation; however, when that motorist is uninsured or underinsured, the situation can get a whole lot worse unless you have the backing of the experienced Las Vegas uninsured/underinsured motorist accident lawyers at the Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm.
Through our law firm's 20 years of experience, our Las Vegas car accident lawyers have handled numerous uninsured/underinsured car accident cases and possess the legal expertise to navigate uninsured motorist cases, ensuring our clients receive maximum compensation despite the negligent driver being uninsured.
Schedule a free consultation with a Las Vegas underinsured/uninsured coverage attorney today by calling (702) 566-3600 or submitting an inquiry.
About Founding Attorney Rodney Okano
Attorney Rodney Okano is a skilled Nevada personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of experience in Nevada and personal injury law. With his expertise, he has helped thousands of people injured in accidents obtain the financial settlement they're entitled to.
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I would 100% recommended Rodney Okano to anyone who gets into a car accident. Jackie is amazing and will walk you through everything. It’s quite a process but they kept me updated the entire time. Thank you!
Mr Okano is one of the best lawyer I ever seen he took care me and my case very well and he has the best knowledge about his job and also Jackie his helper both very professional every time I have to used a lawyer I need someone like mr. Rodney Okano thank you for everything
How Can a Las Vegas Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Accident Attorney Help You
Following an uninsured motorist auto accident, seeking legal representation from a Las Vegas uninsured and underinsured motorist accident lawyer from our personal injury law firm is one of the most beneficial actions you can take, as they can assist you in many ways, including obtaining the compensation lost due to the at-fault driver being uninsured.
Utilize Your Insurance Coverage Correctly
An attorney can analyze your car insurance coverage options and utilize them in a way that can help you make a financial recovery.
For example, if you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage in your insurance policy, a car accident lawyer will find the best possible way to use it to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses, ensuring that any financial disaster caused by the uninsured motorist is avoided.
Identify Other Sources of Compensation
If you don't have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, hiring a Las Vegas car accident attorney is almost a must, as they can identify other sources of compensation outside of insurance coverage, including suing the at-fault party personally for their assets, seeking compensation from a third insured party, or filing a claim against the at-fault driver's employer if the driver was doing official job duties at the time of the car accident.
Negotiate and Communicate on Your Behalf
Insurance companies, even your own, will seek to minimize your settlement by offering a low initial settlement, purposely stalling in your claims process, or outright denying your insurance claim.
But, with the help of an experienced underinsured/uninsured motorist lawyer, all negotiations and communications with the insurance company will go through them, ensuring that your rights are protected and you obtain a fair settlement.
File a Lawsuit and Represent You in Court
If negotiations with the insurance company fail or your attorney seeks additional compensation for you, they can file a personal injury lawsuit and take your case to court, where they can pursue a large settlement.
What Damages Can You Recover After an Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Accident
While you may think that, since the at-fault driver in your motor vehicle accident was uninsured or underinsured, you may not be entitled to seek compensation for a variety of damages, the truth is that you are still entitled to recover compensation for the same damages a person hit by an insured driver would be entitled to.
Common damages that our Las Vegas car accident lawyers recover in a client's uninsured/underinsured motorist case include:
- Medical expenses (Past and future medical bills)
- Lost wages (Past and future lost income)
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Out-of-pocket expenses
- Emotional distress
To ensure that you recover the largest possible settlement from your underinsured/uninsured motorist accident case, it's highly recommended to schedule a free legal consultation with the personal injury lawyers at the Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm.
Nevada Insurance Requirements
Nevada law mandates that all drivers on public roads carry the following minimum liability insurance outlined under NRS 485.185:
- $25,000 for bodily injury or death of one person
- $50,000 for bodily injury or death of two or more persons
- $20,000 for property damage per accident
In addition to having the minimum liability coverage in their insurance policy, Nevada law requires that drivers carry proof of insurance while driving on public roads.
Drivers who are caught without the state-required minimum liability insurance can face penalties, including having their license suspended, fines, and a requirement to file an SR-22 form.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Optional but Highly Recommended
While Nevada laws do not require drivers to carry uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage while driving, it's highly recommended that you add it to your existing auto insurance policy, as it can protect against expenses caused by an uninsured/underinsured motorist.
Additionally, under Nevada Revised Statutes, insurance companies are required to offer UM/UIM coverage with limits equal to your bodily injury liability limits, typically 25/50, making it a worthwhile investment.
Understanding Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Insurance Coverage in Nevada
If you're considering adding uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage to your insurance plan, it's essential to understand the benefits and limitations associated with it.
Benefits of UM/UIM Coverage
Underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage applies when:
- The at-fault driver is uninsured
- The at-fault driver is underinsured, meaning that their policy doesn't cover all of your expenses (medical bills, lost income, etc.)
- The at-fault driver hit-and-ran and cannot be identified
When underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage kicks in, it can typically pay for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Funeral expenses
- Physical therapy costs
The most prominent benefit of underinsured/uninsured motorist coverage is that it provides a financial safety net to injured victims in the event the liable party lacks insurance or assets.
What Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Not Cover?
While UM/UIM coverage covers a vast amount of damages, there are limitations in that property damages will not be covered, including:
- Vehicle damage (Unless collision coverage is included in the policy)
- Damage to personal property (electronics, clothing, luggage, etc)
- Punitive damages
What to Do After an Uninsured Motorist Car Accident
A car accident with an uninsured motorist can be a challenging situation, as many problems can arise.
Due to the potential for complications, it's crucial that you understand the right steps to take following a car accident with an uninsured driver.
1. Call 911 and Seek Immediate Medical Treatment
Call 911 and request the police and emergency medical services.
Having law enforcement present to file a police report is crucial in car accidents involving uninsured drivers, as it ensures that the accident is properly reported and that you have evidence that can be used to prove liability and damages.
2. Exchange Contact Information
Exchange the following information with the uninsured/underinsured driver:
- Full name
- Contact details
- Driver's license number
- License plate number and vehicle information
In addition to exchanging contact information with the uninsured/underinsured driver, collect key pieces of evidence, including:
- Photos of the accident scene
- Contact information for any witnesses
3. Don't Engage in Any Deals with the Uninsured Driver
Following a car accident, uninsured motorists may attempt to offer money or a deal in an effort to avoid legal penalties.
It's crucial that you don't engage in any deals whatsoever with the uninsured driver, as doing so could give the insurance company a reason to deny coverage.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance provider that you were involved in a car accident with an uninsured driver.
Inform the insurance agent about the basics of the accident, but refrain from providing detailed information, as the call is being recorded and could be used against you later on.
5. Consult with a Las Vegas Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer
Uninsured motorist accidents can be challenging, so it's crucial that you contact the experienced Las Vegas car accident lawyers at the Rodney Okano Car Accident Lawyer Law Firm to ensure that you receive the right legal guidance from Nevada's top legal team.
Schedule a free case review with a Las Vegas car accident lawyer from our law firm by calling (702) 566-3600.
Frequently Asked Questions About Uninsured and Underinsured Accidents
What Are the Nevada Uninsured Motorist Statistics?
In Nevada, around 8.8% of drivers are uninsured, which, while being below the national average of 14%, is still a problem.
Another statistic states that around 10% to 30% of Nevada drivers are underinsured, meaning that they only carry the minimum state-required liability coverage.
What Is the Nevada Statute of Limitations for Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim?
Under Nevada's statute of limitations, which is outlined under NRS 11.190(4)(e), you have 2 years from the date of the uninsured motorist accident to file a claim.
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