Reporting a Car Accident in Nevada: Legal Requirements and Next Steps

Car accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing your legal obligations and the correct reporting procedures in Nevada can help you avoid legal consequences. Whether the accident results in minor damage or serious injuries, taking the proper steps is crucial for compliance with state laws, protecting your insurance claims, and ensuring your rights are upheld.

Nevada has clear guidelines on when and how you must report a car accident. Failing to follow these laws can lead to fines, license suspension, or even criminal charges. This guide breaks down Nevada’s accident reporting laws, when you need to call the police, and what steps to take after an accident.

When Are You Required to Report a Car Accident in Nevada?

Nevada law requires drivers involved in an accident to report it to the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and law enforcement under certain conditions.

Nevada’s 10-Day Rule for Reporting Accidents

The Nevada DMV requires accident reporting within 10 days if:

• Injuries or fatalities occur.
• Property damage exceeds $750.
• Police did not respond to file an accident report.

Failing to report an accident meeting these conditions could result in a one-year license suspension.

“Nevada law requires drivers to report an accident to the DMV within 10 days if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $750.” – Nevada DMV Regulations.

Legal Consequences for Not Reporting an Accident

If you fail to report an accident that meets the above criteria, you could face:

• License suspension for up to one year.
• Misdemeanor charges with possible fines.
• Felony charges if the accident involves severe injuries or a fatality.

Do You Have to Call the Police After an Accident?

Calling the police is required in some situations and recommended in others.

When Calling the Police is Mandatory

Nevada law mandates reporting to law enforcement immediately if:

• Someone is injured or killed.
• Property damage is over $750.
• The other driver is uncooperative or tries to flee the scene.

“Failure to report an accident involving injuries can be considered a hit-and-run, leading to criminal charges.” – Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) 484E.010

What to Do if Police Don’t Arrive

In some cases, police may not respond, mainly if no injuries are reported. If this happens:

1. Document the Scene: Take photos of vehicle damage, license plates, and the accident site.
2. Exchange Information: Collect names, insurance details, and contact numbers of all involved.
3. Report to the DMV: You are still required to file an accident report within 10 days.

How to Report a Car Accident in Nevada

If police do not file a report, it is the driver’s responsibility to report the accident.

Filing a DMV Accident Report (SR-1 Form)

The SR-1 Traffic Crash Report must be submitted to the Nevada DMV if the accident involves:

• Injuries or fatalities.
• Over $750 in property damage.
• No police report was filed.

How to file the report:

Download the SR-1 form from the Nevada DMV website or pick it up in person. Provide detailed accident information, including date, time, location, vehicle details, and witness statements.

Submit the completed form via mail or in person.

Even if police file an accident report, drivers should verify its submission to avoid penalties.

“Even if police officers do not arrive at the scene, drivers are still responsible for filing a crash report with the DMV.” – Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles.

Failure to Report an Accident: Penalties and Consequences

Neglecting to report an accident when required can have serious legal consequences.

Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Nevada

Regardless of accident severity, following the correct steps can protect your legal rights and prevent future disputes.

At the Accident Scene

1. Ensure Safety – Move vehicles out of traffic if possible.
2. Call Law Enforcement – If required by law.
3. Exchange Information – Get driver’s licenses, insurance details, and contact numbers.
4. Document Everything – Take photos of vehicles, injuries, road conditions, and traffic signs.

Reporting the Accident

• File a police report if required.
• Submit an SR-1 report to the DMV within 10 days.
• Notify your insurance company as soon as possible.

Why You Should Report Even Minor Accidents

• Hidden injuries may develop over time.
• Vehicle damage may be more extensive than it appears.
• Future legal disputes can arise if the other driver claims injuries later.

“Even if the damage appears minor, reporting the accident ensures legal protection if injuries or further claims arise.” – Nevada Car Accident Law

FAQs

1. How long do you have to report a car accident in Nevada?

You have 10 days to report an accident to the Nevada DMV if injuries, fatalities, or over $750 in property damage occurred.

2. What happens if I don’t report an accident in Nevada?

Failure to report could result in a one-year license suspension, fines, or criminal charges, depending on the accident severity of the accident.

3. Do I have to call the police after every accident in Nevada?

No, but police must be called if there are injuries, fatalities, or property damage over $750.

4. What if the police don’t arrive at the accident scene?

Drivers must still file a report with the DMV and document the accident thoroughly with photos and witness statements.

5. Can I settle a minor accident without reporting it?

If the damage is under $750 and no one is injured, reporting is not legally required but recommended to avoid future liability.

6. What if the other driver refuses to share information?

Call the police immediately and document the incident to prevent hit-and-run accusations.

Conclusion

Reporting a car accident in Nevada is not just a legal requirement—it’s a crucial step in protecting yourself from liability and ensuring your rights are upheld. Even in minor accidents, filing a report safeguards against future disputes and hidden injuries.

If you’ve been in an accident and need legal guidance, Gina Corena & Associates can help. Our experienced car accident lawyers are dedicated to helping you navigate legal filings for insurance claims and protecting your rights under Nevada law.

“Understanding your legal obligations after an accident can prevent costly mistakes. If you need legal advice, our firm is here to assist you.” – Gina Corena & Associates.

For experienced legal assistance in handling accident claims, trust the team at Gina Corena & Associates to protect your interests.