Las Vegas Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer

Suffering injuries in a motor vehicle accident is stressful enough. If the driver that hit you did not have liability insurance, stress caused by the financial burdens from your wreck weigh even more heavily on your shoulders. Worrying about how you’re going to pay for your medical bills, get your vehicle repaired, and replace the income you’ve lost interferes with your peace of mind and your ability to heal from your accident. You shouldn’t have to face these challenges alone.

If an uninsured motorist caused you to suffer injuries in a car accident in Las Vegas, don’t wait to contact an attorney. Although filing a personal injury claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company is not an option, there may be other sources of recovery available to you. Uninsured motorist accident lawyer Christopher Burk has nearly 20 years of experience protecting the rights of the little guy. Our law firm will evaluate your case, review your insurance coverages and the circumstances of your case, and help you recover maximum compensation for your losses.

Hurt by a Jerk? Better call Burk: 702-620-2020

Understanding Uninsured Motorist Accidents in Las Vegas

As the victim of an uninsured motorist accident in Nevada, you’ll face a variety of challenges that other car accident victims probably won’t face. Instead of filing a personal injury claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance policy, for example, you will need to explore alternative routes to recover compensation. While getting a fair settlement or jury award to cover your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering is going to be difficult, it’s not impossible. Understanding these types of accident and hiring an uninsured motorist accident lawyer to help you navigate the claims process, however, are vital to your financial recovery.

What Is an Uninsured Motorist Accident?

An uninsured motorist accident occurs when the at-fault party involved in a motor vehicle accident does not have liability insurance coverage to cover the costs of damages and injuries to other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians.

In Nevada, it is a legal requirement for drivers to carry liability auto insurance. Despite this obligation, roughly 10% of Nevada drivers fail to carry insurance that meets state requirements. Making the irresponsible decision to drive without insurance can cause crippling financial hardship for others if these people cause injury or fatality accidents.

What Are Common Causes of Uninsured Motorist Accidents?

Negligent driving behaviors, such as speeding, reckless driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, are the top causes of uninsured motorist accidents in Las Vegas.

Why Do People Drive Without Liability Insurance?

There are various reasons why some drivers choose to be uninsured, including:

Financial constraints: Some individuals may struggle to afford insurance premiums due to financial difficulties.
Negligence: Some drivers fail to purchase insurance due to personal negligence or a lack of awareness of the legal requirements.
Suspended or revoked licenses: A driver may have had their license suspended or revoked due to previous convictions or traffic violations. In such cases, insurance providers may refuse to issue a policy.

How Does Uninsured Motorist Insurance Work After an Accident?

Uninsured motorist insurance (UM) is a type of auto insurance coverage that can be crucial if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages. Here’s how uninsured motorist insurance works after an accident in Las Vegas:

Coverage Types: Uninsured motorist coverage typically comes in two forms: uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) and uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD). UMBI covers your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering if you’re injured by an uninsured or underinsured driver. UMPD covers the damage to your vehicle or other property when the at-fault driver lacks insurance.
Filing a Claim: After an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver, you would need to file a claim with your own insurance company if you have uninsured motorist coverage. You’ll need to provide details of the accident, including the other driver’s information and any available evidence such as police reports or witness statements.
Coverage Limits: Like other insurance types, uninsured motorist coverage has limits. You can choose the coverage limits when you purchase your policy. It’s essential to select limits that adequately protect you in case of an accident, considering potential medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage costs.
Hit-and-Run Accidents: Uninsured motorist coverage can also apply in hit-and-run accidents where the at-fault driver flees the scene and cannot be identified.
Legal Process: Your insurance company will investigate your claim and assess the damages. If you and your insurer cannot agree on a settlement amount, you may need to go through arbitration or, in some cases, file a lawsuit against your own insurer.
No-Fault States: In no-fault states like Nevada, you may first seek compensation from your own personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, but if your injuries exceed the PIP limits or meet certain criteria, you can then turn to your uninsured motorist coverage.
Cost: Adding uninsured motorist coverage to your auto insurance policy typically increases your premiums. However, the added protection can be invaluable if you’re in an accident with an uninsured driver.
Legal Assistance: If you encounter difficulties with your insurance company when filing an uninsured motorist claim or believe your claim is unfairly denied, you may want to consult with an uninsured motorist accident attorney to protect your rights.

How Does Uninsured Motorist Coverage Apply to Hit-and-Run Accidents?

In hit-and-run accidents where the responsible driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance, uninsured motorist coverage can provide essential financial protection. It ensures that you have a source of compensation for injuries and property damage, allowing you to recover from the impact of the accident even when the at-fault driver flees the scene.

If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run accident, your uninsured motorist coverage can come into play in two ways:

UMBI: If you’re injured in a hit-and-run accident, and the at-fault driver cannot be identified or does not have insurance, your UMBI coverage should apply. Your own insurance company will compensate you for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering up to the limits of your policy.

UMPD: If your vehicle is damaged in a hit-and-run accident, and the responsible driver cannot be identified or lacks insurance, your UMPD coverage should cover the property damage. This typically includes repairs or replacement of your vehicle, up to the policy limits.

To file a successful uninsured motorist claim in a hit-and-run case, you’ll usually need to have reported the accident to the police and obtained a copy of the police report. Additionally, any evidence you can provide, such as witness statements, photographs, or video footage, can be helpful in supporting your claim.

See What Our Clients Say

"I can't express how grateful I am for the outstanding service provided by Chris Burk and his team. They truly went above and beyond, making the entire process as easy as possible for me. From handling all the necessary paperwork to taking care of the details, they did the dirty work, allowing me to focus on my recovery. Thank you for your professionalism, efficiency, and genuine care. I highly recommend their services to anyone in need."

– L.T.

“Chris works hard to get you the cash and care you deserve. His professional and friendly staff provide excellent support throughout the entire process. Chris supports veterans and made it his personal mission to help me and my family, thank you!”

Michael Tomasello

“After getting knocked off my motorcycle by a careless driver, I knew I needed help. This was my first time being injured in an accident. Chris Burk and his team educated me on the process, kept me informed during my case, and got me way more than I ever expected. I can not thank them enough. If you are looking for a group of professionals that genuinely cares about their clients, will put your best interest first, and will work hard to get what you deserve, then you have found the perfect legal team to represent you.”

Dale Jones

“Everyone at Burk Injury Lawyers was great with helping me with my case and keeping me informed on what was going on in the whole process. Chris was super efficient and helpful throughout the whole process. His case manager Mylee was awesome and followed up with me a lot via e-mail and over the phone to let me know how everything on their side was going as well as to see how my treatments were. Thank you Chris and everyone at Burk Injury Law!”

Aleksandra Bolta

Mr. Burk did an amazing job when it came to my injury case. He even gave me his cell phone number. What other attorney does that? He followed up on a weekly basis, from Dr visits, to just checking on my well-being. I would highly recommend Mr. Burk to family, friends, & colleagues. Thank you again for all your help.

Daniel Amico

Mr. Burk handled my case with great professionalism and care. With his expertise he was able to save me medical expenses for unnecessary procedures as well as refer me to a great chiropractor. Knowledge and experience can be expected from Chris.

Joel Wurster, Las Vegas, Nevada

Chris’s passion for his clients and is beyond reproach. My needs were met from start to finish. If I could use one word to describe the experience ‘turnkey’ would best fit. After my accident and subsequent injuries I didn’t know how to approach insurance carriers to discuss my situation. Chris worked with me every step of the way in getting me the appropriate care needed for my injuries, damages and communicated regularly on all aspects of my case.

Joseph Almasy

Chris was able to handle my case with ease. His office is set up so you can scan and email him your information. He took his time and he actually cared about my case! He gave me his personal cell phone and email. He was able to resolve the case quickly and efficiently. Chris and his staff are so easy to work with!

M. De Los Santos

El Sr. Burk hizo un trabajo increíble en lo que respecta a mi caso de lesiones. Incluso me dio su número de teléfono celular. ¿Qué otro abogado hace eso? Él hacía un seguimiento semanal, desde las visitas del Dr., hasta simplemente verificar mi bienestar. Recomiendo encarecidamente al Sr. Burk a familiares, amigos y colegas. Gracias de nuevo por toda tu ayuda.

Daniel Amico

El Sr. Burk manejó mi caso con gran profesionalismo y cuidado. Con su experiencia, pudo ahorrarme gastos médicos para procedimientos innecesarios y recomendarme a un gran quiropráctico. Se puede esperar conocimiento y experiencia de Chris.

Joel Wurster, Las Vegas, Nevada

La pasión de Chris por sus clientes y está más allá de cualquier reproche. Mis necesidades fueron satisfechas de principio a fin. Si pudiera usar una palabra para describir la experiencia, “llave en mano” encajaría mejor. Después de mi accidente y lesiones posteriores, no sabía cómo acercarme a las compañías de seguros para discutir mi situación. Chris trabajó conmigo en cada paso del camino para obtener la atención adecuada necesaria para mis lesiones, daños y me comunicó regularmente sobre todos los aspectos de mi caso.

Joseph Almasy

Chris pudo manejar mi caso con facilidad. Su oficina eatá configurada para que pueda escanear y enviarle su información por correo electrónico. ¡Se tomó su tiempo y realmente se preocupó por mi caso! Me dio su teléfono celular y correo electrónico personales. Pudo resolver el caso de manera rápida y eficiente. ¡Es muy fácil trabajar con Chris y su personal!

M. De Los Santos

How to Protect Your Rights as an Accident Victim

If you have been involved in a Las Vegas car accident with an uninsured motorist, hiring an experienced personal injury lawyer is crucial to protect your rights. By understanding more about uninsured motorist accidents, taking necessary steps after the accident, and relying on the knowledge and skill of an experienced attorney, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome.

Reporting the Accident to Law Enforcement

Following an accident with an uninsured driver, it is essential to report the incident to the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles or local law enforcement authorities within 10 days, as required by state law. This step creates an official record of the accident, which is vital when seeking compensation.

Gathering Evidence and Documenting the Accident

To build a strong case, it is essential to gather evidence at the accident scene. This can include taking photographs, collecting witness statements, and obtaining the contact information of involved parties.

Seeking Prompt Medical Attention

Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible following the accident. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, and delaying medical treatment can harm both your health and your claim.

The Importance of Hiring a Las Vegas Uninsured Motorist Accident Lawyer

A skilled Las Vegas uninsured motorist accident lawyer will guide you through the complicated legal process, ensuring you meet all necessary deadlines, file the appropriate paperwork, and present a strong case to maximize your chances of recovering fair compensation.

An experienced attorney will evaluate your losses, including medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any potential future expenses or disabilities resulting from the accident. Your lawyer will ensure you receive fair compensation to cover these losses.

Insurance companies often try to settle uninsured motorist accident claims for the lowest possible amount. Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring you are not taken advantage of and that your rights are protected.

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your lawyer will prepare your case for trial and represent you in court.