Nevada requires all vehicle owners to carry property damage liability insurance. If the at-fault driver has auto insurance, you can file an insurance claim against their policy to repair or replace your vehicle. To win a property damage liability claim, you must prove the other driver negligently hit your vehicle.
You cannot pursue a liability claim if an uninsured driver hits you. But you can pursue a claim under any optional uninsured motorist (UM) coverage you included in your policy. You can also repair or replace your vehicle using UM coverage after a hit-and-run accident. In other words, UM covers damage from uninsured or unidentified drivers.
Depending on your insurance coverage, you may have a couple of additional options. First, collision coverage pays to repair or replace your vehicle regardless of fault. You can use this coverage to repair or replace your vehicle quickly while the insurers sort out the fault for the accident.
The downside of this option is that collision coverage usually requires you to meet a deductible. However, you can get reimbursed for the deductible you paid by successfully proving the other driver negligently caused the crash.
Second, you can pay out of pocket for your repairs or replacement. If you pay to repair or replace your vehicle, you can include your out-of-pocket costs in a liability claim or lawsuit against the at-fault driver.
This option is risky because you could pay thousands or tens of thousands to repair or replace your vehicle while you also face medical expenses for your injuries. Rather than tying up their money repairing or replacing their car, many crash victims choose to preserve their money to pay for treatment, therapy, and medication.
Holding onto this cash is especially important when you suffer injuries that force you to miss work, cut your hours, or take lower-paying light duty.
In any of these options, you can file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver for any unreimbursed costs.
Thus, suppose the other driver had $25,000 in property damage liability coverage. But the driver totaled your $35,000 car in a DUI crash. The other driver’s insurance company will pay $25,000 toward replacing your car and you must either sue the driver for the remaining $10,000 or try to settle with them to cover your remaining losses.
Rely on Expert Legal Help for Your Vehicle Accident
Facing a vehicle accident can be overwhelming, especially when legal issues arise. It’s crucial to have an experienced advocate by your side.
At Hill Firm, we specialize in navigating the legal complexities of a car accident. From proving liability to dealing with insurance companies, our team is dedicated to fighting for your best interests. With a proven track record, you can trust us to handle your case with care and expertise.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Hill Firm for a free consultation today and let us put our experience to work for you.