Car Accident Las Vegas
Long Experience In car acdident Cases in Las Vegas
In essence, Morgan Sterling law firm combines legal acumen with a deep understanding of your needs, utilizing a mix of preparation, negotiation, and trial advocacy to win cases.
Car Accident Cases Las Vegas
Handling a car accident case in Las Vegas, Nevada, involves many of the same general steps as in other states. But there are some specific legal and procedural considerations that apply within Nevada’s framework.
Morgan Sterling Law wins their cases by employing a combination of legal expertise, thorough case preparation, strategic negotiations, and effective courtroom presentation.
1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
- Client Meeting: Our attorney will first meet with you to understand the facts of the accident, such as:
- The date, time, and location of the accident.
- The parties involved and their insurance details.
- The extent of the injuries and medical treatment received.
- Any witnesses or video evidence (such as from traffic cameras or security cameras).
- Legal Assessment: Nevada follows a fault-based system for car accidents, meaning that the driver responsible for the crash is liable for damages. Our attorney will assess the case to determine who is at fault and whether you have a valid claim for damages.
2. Investigation and Evidence Gathering
- Accident Scene Evidence: Our attorney will gather critical evidence to prove fault and damages, which may include:
- Police Reports:
- Witness Statements:
- Photographs/Videos:
- Medical Documentation:
- Black Box Data (if applicable)
We work to ensure you receive compensation that reflects not only immediate medical expenses but also pain, suffering, and any diminished future prospects.
3. Insurance Negotiations
- Filing Claims: Our attorney will file claims with the at-fault party’s insurance company (or your own insurance if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured).
- Nevada’s Comparative Negligence Rule: Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule: if the injured party is found to be 50% or more at fault for the accident, they are not eligible to recover damages. However, if the injured party is less than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages. But their compensation will be reduced by their percentage of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault, we can still recover 70% of their damages.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, our attorney will help you file a claim under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Which is typically part of full-coverage insurance policies.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often offer low settlements initially. Our attorney will negotiate with the insurer to ensure you receive fair compensation for: medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
4. Dealing with Medical Liens and Expenses
- Medical Bills: Our attorney will help you manage medical expenses related to the accident. In Nevada, if you receives treatment through your health insurance or medical providers, these providers may place a lien on any settlement or award. Our attorney will negotiate these liens to ensure you are not paying more than necessary.
- Working with Medical Providers: Our attorney may work with healthcare providers to reduce medical bills or to ensure that medical liens do not overwhelm your final settlement.
5. Filing a Lawsuit (If Necessary)
- Filing a Personal Injury Lawsuit: If a fair settlement cannot be reached with the insurance company, our attorney will file a personal injury lawsuit in a Nevada court. In Las Vegas, cases are typically filed in the Clark County District Court, which handles personal injury cases.
- Discovery Process: This phase involves the exchange of documents, depositions, and interrogatories. Our attorney may gather additional evidence, interview witnesses, and take depositions from experts, medical professionals, and the other party.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Our attorney will file motions in court, such as motions to dismiss or motions for summary judgment, if there are legal grounds to do so.
6. Trial (If Necessary)
- Court Presentation: If the case goes to trial, our attorney will present the case to a judge and/or jury. This will involve presenting evidence of fault, damages, and the impact of the accident on the your life.
- Expert Testimony: Our attorney may call upon medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, or other experts to testify on your behalf.
- Cross-Examination: Our attorney will cross-examine witnesses presented by the other side, challenging their testimony and undermining their arguments for liability.
7. Settlement or Trial Outcome
- Settlement: Most car accident cases in Las Vegas settle before trial. Our attorney will aim to negotiate a settlement that adequately compensates you for medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Trial Verdict: If the case goes to trial, our attorney will present the case to a judge or jury and seek a favorable verdict. If the case is successful, you will receive compensation based on the jury’s verdict or a settlement awarded by the court.
8. Post-Case Considerations
- Collecting the Award: Once a settlement or judgment is reached, our attorney will help you receive your compensation. This may involve resolving any medical liens, paying legal fees, and ensuring that you are paid promptly.
- Debt Management: If you have significant medical bills or other debts related to the accident, our office will help manage or negotiate the reduction of those debts.
