Las Vegas is a city full of energy, fast-paced streets, and constant movement.. But like any major city, accidents happen—and unfortunately, not every driver sticks around. Being the victim of a hit and run can leave you shaken, confused, and overwhelmed. The driver flees the scene, leaving you with damage, injuries, and uncertainty about what comes next.
Knowing what to do in a hit and run is crucial. At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we stand beside victims from the moment the crash happens to the final resolution of their case. This blog will walk you through your immediate actions, rights, and options for seeking justice after a hit and run in Las Vegas.
Step 1: Stay Calm and Prioritize Safety
The moments after an accident can be chaotic. Your first priority should always be safety.If anyone in your vehicle is hurt, your first action should be to call emergency services. If it’s safe, move your car out of harm’s way.
After reaching a safe place, take a moment to breathe and stay as calm as possible. Escalating emotionally can worsen the situation.
Step 2: Do Not Chase the Fleeing Driver
One common mistake is attempting to follow or confront the driver who fled. This may seem like a good idea in the heat of the moment, but it puts you at risk and can complicate legal matters. Rather than acting on instinct, try to observe and retain key details about the other vehicle.
Vehicle color, make, and model Partial or full license plate Direction the vehicle was heading Any unique damage or markings Even a brief observation can help authorities locate the driver later.
Step 3: Call the Police Immediately
No matter how minor the crash appears, it’s critical to report the hit and run to law enforcement. A police report is necessary for insurance claims and legal actions. When officers arrive, share all the information you can recall and let them document the scene.
The police may be able to use traffic cameras, nearby surveillance footage, or witness statements to help track down the responsible driver.
Step 4: Collect Evidence on the Scene
If your injuries allow and you’re in a secure area, begin collecting any evidence that may help later.
Look for paint transfers or broken vehicle parts left behind Ask witnesses for contact information and statements Note time, location, and road conditions This evidence will support your case when filing a claim or lawsuit. In fact, documentation often makes the biggest difference in proving your losses after a hit and run.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Let your insurance provider know that you were involved in a hit and run accident. Capture pictures of the damage, the road conditions, and anything around the scene that seems relevant. In Nevada, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage may help cover your damages if the other driver can’t be identified. This coverage is optional in some policies, but often a key lifeline in these scenarios.
It’s also important not to delay this step—most insurers require timely reporting.
Step 6: Get Medical Attention
Be truthful and complete in your explanation when speaking to law enforcement or insurance providers. Injuries like whiplash or internal bruising may not be obvious right away. Medical records not only help protect your health but also serve as important evidence if you need to file a claim for damages.
Step 7: Know What to Do in a Hit and Run Legally
Understanding what to do in a hit and run from a legal standpoint ensures you’re protecting your rights. Nevada law classifies hit and run accidents involving injuries as a felony, and those involving property damage as a misdemeanor.
But that doesn’t mean the process is simple. Victims often struggle to get full compensation without legal support—especially when the at-fault driver cannot be located.
Step 8: Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney
Cases involving drivers who flee the scene often involve added legal challenges. At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we’ve supported numerous clients in Las Vegas as they pursue the compensation they’re owed.
Lost income Vehicle repair or replacement Pain and suffering
We know what to do in a hit and run to build a strong case, identify potential coverage options, and pursue compensation even when the other driver is unknown.
An attorney can also communicate with insurance companies on your behalf, preventing you from being pressured into accepting a lowball settlement.
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?
While there’s never an excuse for leaving the scene, it helps to understand why hit and runs happen:
The driver is under the influence. They are uninsured or unlicensed. They fear arrest due to warrants or immigration status Panic and lack of judgment take over Regardless of the reason, the law doesn’t take hit and runs lightly—and you deserve to be protected and compensated.
What Compensation Can You Receive?
Every case is different, but if you’re the victim of a hit and run, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Emergency and ongoing medical treatment Vehicle damage or total loss Lost wages during recovery Future loss of earning capacity Emotional distress and trauma Knowing what to do in a hit and run helps you build a strong claim and hold the responsible parties accountable—even if they initially evade capture.
Final Thoughts: Take Action, Protect Yourself
The moments after a hit and run are overwhelming—but your actions matter. Stay calm, document the scene, contact law enforcement, and get medical help. Most importantly, speak with a qualified attorney who understands what to do in a hit and run and how to guide you through the legal process.
At Benjamin Durham Law Firm, we’re committed to helping Las Vegas drivers who have been harmed in hit and run incidents. You don’t have to handle the aftermath alone. Reach out today for a consultation and let us help you move forward with confidence.