Founding Member & Managing Partner at Gina Corena & Associates
Practice Areas: Personal Injury
Hit-and-run accidents are a serious offense in Las Vegas, often leaving victims with injuries, financial losses, and legal uncertainties. Whether it’s a minor collision or a severe crash, leaving the Scene without providing information or assistance can lead to criminal charges, hefty fines, and even jail time.
Understanding Nevada’s hit-and-run laws is crucial for both drivers and victims. These laws outline strict penalties for offenders and provide victims with legal options to seek compensation. If you are involved in a hit-and-run, knowing the proper steps to take can impact your ability to recover damages and hold the responsible party accountable.
This guide covers everything you need to know about hit-and-run offenses, including penalties, legal options, and what to do if you’re involved in one. If you’ve been a victim, seeking legal guidance can help you get the compensation you deserve.
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver leaves the Scene of a collision without stopping to provide information or assist anyone injured. Under Nevada law, drivers involved in accidents must:
Failing to do any of these can result in criminal penalties.
“Fleeing an accident scene is not just illegal—it’s a violation of public safety. If you’re involved in a crash, staying at the Scene is your legal duty.”
– Gina Corena, Personal Injury Attorney
The classification of a hit-and-run in Nevada depends on the consequences of the accident.
If only property damage occurs, the driver can face a misdemeanor charge. Penalties include up to six months in jail, a $1,000 fine, and six points on their driving record.
If the accident results in injury or death, it is a Class B felony. A conviction can lead to two to twenty years in prison, fines between $2,000 and $5,000, and license suspension.
Nevada law applies to both public and private property, so fleeing an accident in a parking lot or private driveway can still result in criminal charges.
If you are involved in a hit-and-run, taking the proper steps immediately can help improve your chances of identifying the driver and securing compensation.
Contact law enforcement immediately. A police report is critical for official documentation, insurance claims, and potential legal action.
If it is safe to do so, take photos and videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, skid marks, traffic signs, and road conditions. Try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, and license plate number.
Even if you feel fine, some injuries take time to appear. A medical examination creates records that can support an insurance claim or legal case.
Uninsured motorist coverage can help cover medical expenses and vehicle damage if the other driver is missing. Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
Many Las Vegas businesses and intersections have security cameras that may have recorded the accident. Request footage quickly before it is deleted.
“Time is critical after a hit-and-run. The sooner you act, the better your chances of holding the driver accountable.”
– Gina Corena, Personal Injury Attorney
Depending on the severity of the offense, a hit-and-run violation remains on a driver’s record for at least seven years.
Offense | Classification | Penalties |
Property Damage Only | Misdemeanor | $1,000 fine, 6 months in jail, 6 points on license |
Injury or Fatality | Felony (Class B) | 2-20 years in prison, $2,000-$5,000 fine, license suspension |
Source:
Yes, if a hit-and-run results in injury or death, it is a Class B felony. Convictions carry 2-20 years in prison, $2,000-$5,000 fines, and license suspension, along with potential civil lawsuits from victims or their families.
Stay at the Scene, note vehicle details (make, model, plate number), and record driver features. Check for surveillance cameras, notify law enforcement, and provide a statement, as eyewitness accounts are crucial for tracking down the fleeing driver.
Yes, Nevada law applies to parking lots, driveways, and private roads. Failing to stop, provide information, or render aid can lead to misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on whether the accident involved injury, death, or property damage.
Minor accidents remain for 3 years, while hit-and-run offenses stay for at least 7 years. Felony hit-and-run violations are permanent and impact insurance rates, employment opportunities, and driving privileges.
Victims can claim uninsured motorist coverage (UMC) for medical bills, lost wages, and damages. Collision coverage may help with vehicle repairs. If negligence contributed to the accident, a personal injury attorney can explore legal options.
A hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming, leaving victims with medical expenses, vehicle damage, and unanswered questions about their legal options. However, Nevada law provides clear avenues for seeking justice and compensation. Whether through uninsured motorist coverage, legal action, or working with law enforcement, victims have the right to hold negligent drivers accountable.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Las Vegas, it is crucial to act quickly. Seeking medical attention, gathering Evidence, and consulting a skilled car accident attorney can help you with the outcome of your case.
“We believe every hit-and-run victim deserves justice. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery.”
– Gina Corena, Personal Injury Attorney
At Gina Corena & Associates, we are committed to helping hit-and-run victims fight for the compensation they deserve. Our team understands the complexities of Nevada’s traffic laws and will work hard to protect your rights. Call us today for a Free Consultation .
As founder of Gina Corena & Associates, she is dedicated to fighting for the rights of the people who suffer life-changing personal injuries in car, truck and motorcycle accidents as well as other types of personal injury. Gina feels fortunate to serve the Nevada community and hold wrongdoers accountable for their harm to her clients.