Being hit by an uninsured or illegal driver can quickly turn into a stressful, confusing ordeal. If this has happened to you in Las Vegas, you’re not alone. Around 10% of drivers in Nevada are estimated to be uninsured, and even more may be driving illegally or with only minimum insurance limits. Navigating this situation can be tricky, but with the right steps and support from a trusted legal team, you can protect your rights and recover maximum compensation. Call us at Howard Injury Law 24/7 at (702) 331-5722 for a free consultation or fill out our 24/7 web form.
Many motorists believe that insurance will always cover accident expenses. However, one in ten Nevada drivers lacks coverage— and some just carry the basic minimums. That means you could face significant out-of-pocket costs if you’re hit by the wrong person. Nationwide, the average is about 13%, and even higher in places like California.
Nevada requires all registered vehicles to maintain insurance coverage. The current minimums are $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident, and $20,000 for property damage. Still, thousands of drivers take the risk. If you’re struck by an uninsured or illegal driver, state law allows you to file a direct claim or possibly sue the at-fault party for your losses.
Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage
If you are hit by an uninsured (UM) or underinsured (UIM) driver, you’ll typically have to turn to your own insurance. Nevada law requires insurers to offer UM/UIM coverage whenever you start or renew a policy, but you have the right to decline it. If you did not waive the coverage in writing, your insurance company must offer it for your loss.
UM/UIM protects you when:
- The at-fault driver has no insurance
- The other driver’s insurance limits are too low to fully cover your bills
- Someone hits you and flees (a hit-and-run)
- The responsible party is driving illegally or without proper registration
If you carry UM/UIM, your policy may cover:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
UM/UIM coverage can often be “stacked” if you have more than one policy, boosting the amount you can claim.
What to Do Immediately After the Accident
- Call the police to report the crash and make sure an official record is created.
- Document everything with photos of the scene, vehicle damage, skid marks, and injuries.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, contact info, vehicle details, and license if possible. Also gather witness details.
- Seek medical care—even if injuries seem minor—to support your claim and ensure your health.
- Notify your insurance company if you have UM/UIM coverage and start your claim promptly.
- Speak with a car accident attorney in Las Vegas, who can explain your rights and handle negotiations. Call us at Howard Injury Law 24/7 at (702) 331-5722 for a free consultation or fill out our 24/7 web form.
Filing a Lawsuit or Claim for Damages
Even though the other driver may be uninsured or illegal, you are not without options. In Nevada, you can pursue action against the at-fault driver, either through their insurance (if they have any) or directly in court. If you win, the court may order the driver to pay for:
- Medical bills
- Vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
- Additional accident-related expenses
However, uninsured or illegal drivers often lack the financial resources to pay, which is why most recovery comes from your own policy’s UM/UIM protection.
Common Challenges After a Collision with an Uninsured Driver
- Insurance company resistance or delayed payments, even if you’re not at fault
- Confusion about stacked policies and coverage limits
- Strict time limits for filing claims (often 30 days)
- Difficulty collecting payment from uninsured or illegal drivers
Why Legal Help Makes a Difference
Negotiating or proving liability with uninsured or illegal drivers is risky to manage alone. Experienced attorneys know Nevada’s insurance laws, how to gather evidence, and the best strategies to get insurers to pay what you deserve. Your lawyer can help you:
- Build a strong case with all the necessary medical documentation
- Seek punitive damages if the at-fault driver acted recklessly
- Identify every option for compensation, from insurance claims to lawsuits
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it legal to drive without insurance in Nevada?
No, Nevada law requires all registered vehicles to have insurance. Uninsured drivers could face fines, suspension, and additional legal penalties.
What happens if I’m injured by an uninsured driver?
You can use your UM/UIM coverage, file a lawsuit, or pursue both options. An attorney can guide the process.
Can I recover damages in a hit-and-run by an illegal or uninsured driver?
Yes. UM coverage usually protects you in hit-and-run cases, but timely claims and documentation are crucial.
Will my insurance rate go up if I use UM/UIM coverage?
Nevada protects against unfair premium increases due to UM/UIM claims.
Free Consultation with Howard Injury Law
Facing an uninsured or illegal driver in a car crash? At Howard Injury Law, our team specializes in auto accident claims—helping Las Vegas drivers recover compensation, handle negotiations, and seek justice. We manage the details so you can focus on your recovery. Reach out today for a free consultation and let us help you move forward.
At Howard Injury Law, we expertly guide you through the legal process as your dedicated personal injury lawyer in Las Vegas. From the initial FREE consultation to the resolution of your case, our experienced car accident attorneys or personal injury lawyers serve Nevada, California, Colorado, and Arizona, and are committed to providing comprehensive support and representation. We understand the complexities and challenges that come with personal injury claims, and we’re here to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way. Call or fill out our free online form!
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