Some of the most dangerous and impactful car accidents involve wrong-way driving. Especially in a city like Las Vegas where some roads have high speed limits and drivers are often operating late at night or impaired. You may be driving home from a fun night on the town, not expecting to face a head-on collision.
If you or someone you know has experienced an accident from a wrong-way driver, you could be entitled to compensation for your damages. However, due to the complexity of Nevada law, you will want to consult with a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer to make sure you get the maximum amount.
What Should You Do If You Notice a Wrong-Way Driver On Las Vegas Roads?
- Move over to the far right lane or shoulder if possible.
- Slow down and maintain control of your vehicle
- If possible, flash your headlights or honk to alert the driver
- Continue scanning ahead of your vehicle for any out-of-the-ordinary movement
- Report the wrong-way driver immediately by calling 911 when it’s safe to do so
Common Reasons For Wrong-Way Driving In Las Vegas
Your Las Vegas personal injury lawyer will tell you there are several reasons wrong-way driving can happen, most of which involve negligence. Unfortunately all too many accidents occur because of these mistakes and lack of awareness. Officials have studied the causes and have found the most common reasons wrong-way driving happens in Las Vegas includes:
- Impaired driving by alcohol or drugs
- Unfamiliar tourists
- Senior driving
- Medically impaired driving
- Distracted driving
- Intentional risky driving
- Poor signage
- Fatigue or falling asleep at the wheel
What You Should Do Immediately Following a Wrong-Way Driving Accident
Second, Call 911 and follow their directions. Nevada takes wrong-way driving accidents seriously and makes them high-priority emergencies. Do not move anyone who is injured unless they are in imminent danger. If you are able, document the scene. Take pictures and videos of the vehicles involved, traffic conditions, signage, skid marks, and anything else that could be useful. Cooperate with the police and be sure to obtain a police report.
Lastly, if you have not done so already, get a medical evaluation on the same day that the accident occurred. This will be helpful in connecting your injuries to the accident should you contact a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer and pursue a car accident claim. From there, your lawyer can direct you in the best steps forward for maximum compensation.
How a Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyer Will Be Invaluable To Your Case
Wrong-way driving accidents can cause severe injuries and can involve other complexities such as DUIs. If you are involved in an accident on Las Vegas roads, you should reach out to a Las Vegas car accident lawyer. The following are many ways a lawyer can help and be a crucial part of your case:
- Investigation: Your lawyer will investigate the accident alongside the insurance companies, gathering the evidence needed to make sure you are offered a fair settlement.
- Proving Fault: If there is any question as to how much fault you carry for the accident, your lawyer will use evidence they find to identify all liable parties and show that it was the wrong-way driver’s negligence or impairment that caused the accident.
- Maximizing Compensation: Insurance companies will offer lowball settlements to avoid paying as much as possible. Your Las Vegas personal injury lawyer will work tirelessly to calculate all of your damages and will negotiate to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
- Navigating Crime Complexities: If the wrong-way driving accident happened due to a driving under the influence (DUI) or reckless driving, your lawyer will monitor the criminal case, protecting your rights and ensuring you are provided with restitution.
- Statute of Limitations: Nevada has a 2 year statute of limitations on personal injury cases. Your lawyer will make sure all documentation and filings are done within this deadline so you can obtain compensation for your injuries.
Take Action After a Wrong Way Driving Accident by Reaching Out To Our Las Vegas Car Accident Lawyers
Wrong-way driving accidents can lead to devastating injuries, high medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more. If you have been in a car accident caused by wrong-way driving, you need an experienced and aggressive Las Vegas personal injury attorney on your side. At Benson & Bingham, we have decades of experience and are committed to protecting your rights and fighting for a fair settlement.
With our track record of success, you will be glad you chose our top-rated law firm. Contact us today for a free consultation.