
How to File a Claim Against a Nevada State Vehicle
Have you been in an accident with a government vehicle in Nevada? Different procedures apply when a state-owned vehicle is involved. After all, you’re not just dealing with another driver and their insurance—you’re up against a state entity, which means the rules are more formal, the timeline is tighter, and the paperwork is more particular. Learn what to do, when to do it, and how to keep your claim on track.
What Is a Motor Vehicle Claim?
A motor vehicle claim is a request for compensation after a car accident. It covers things like medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage. If the other driver was operating a personal vehicle, you’d typically file this claim with their insurance provider. But if you were hit by a Nevada government vehicle—such as a police cruiser or a road maintenance truck—you must follow a more complicated government claims process.
How Long After a Car Accident Can You File a Claim?
Legal deadlines, such as status of limitations, dictate when you must file. In the case of personal injury claims, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for any injuries you suffered. If you miss this window, you lose your right to compensation.
In the case of damage to your vehicle or personal belongings, you have three years to take legal action. Time moves quickly after a crash, so don’t wait until the last minute. Starting the process early keeps your options open.
What to Do After an Accident with a State Vehicle
Taking certain steps after a crash involving a government vehicle shapes your claim and influences how your insurance company and the state agency will handle it. Here’s what to do:
- Move your vehicle out of traffic, if possible.
- Always call 911 when a government vehicle is involved, even if no one is hurt and your car appears undamaged. An official police report records what happened and who was there.
- Exchange information with everyone involved. Gather names, contact numbers, driver’s license numbers, vehicle descriptions, license plates, and insurance details.
- Take photos of all vehicles, visible injuries, road conditions, traffic signs, and other relevant details. These images may help prove fault or damage later.
- Approach nearby witnesses for their names and contact info. Third-party accounts may support your version of events if liability is contested.
- Seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Injuries like whiplash and concussion aren’t always immediately apparent, and medical documentation strengthens your claim.
- Report the crash promptly to your insurer. Waiting too long might violate your policy and delay the claims process.
Filing a Claim Against a Nevada State Entity
When the at-fault party is a Nevada state employee operating a government vehicle, you must file a Notice of Claim. This differs from accidents with private citizens, where you would simply deal with their insurance company. Here are the legal steps required for state vehicle crashes:
- File a Notice of Claim: This formal document tells the government what happened, what injuries or damages you sustained, and how much compensation you’re seeking. You must submit the notice to the appropriate state agency before you can pursue legal action.
- Include supporting documentation: Attach medical bills, accident reports, repair estimates, and anything else that illustrates your losses. The more complete your packet, the stronger your claim. Be aware that all documents filed with your claim become the city’s property and are available to the public.
- Adhere to deadlines: The statute of limitations requires you to file a lawsuit within two years of the accident, but some agencies impose shorter timelines. When in doubt, act quickly to avoid missing your window.
What If the Government Denies My Claim?
It’s not unusual for a claim against a government agency to be denied. That doesn’t mean you’re out of options—it just means your case may need to take a few more steps, including:
- Review the denial: Look closely at the reasons your claim was denied. There may be an issue with your paperwork or a dispute about liability that you can address.
- Seek legal advice: A personal injury attorney can evaluate the denial and determine whether it’s worth pursuing litigation. They can also revise or resubmit a stronger claim.
- Consider filing a lawsuit: If your claim was denied without a fair review, or the compensation offered was far too low, you may file a Nevada government crash lawsuit. Make sure you’re within the statute of limitations, and be ready to present evidence in court.
Tips for Strengthening Your Claim
When filing a claim against a state entity, the smallest oversight can delay or derail your case entirely. Here are a few ways to strengthen your state car collision claim in Nevada:
- Maintain detailed records: Keep copies of everything, including photos, emails, bills, medical records, and repair invoices as proof of your losses.
- Be aware of deadlines: Keep track of all reporting and filing deadlines. A single missed date could nullify your entire claim.
- Speak with legal counsel early: Don’t wait until things get complicated. Having a car accident lawyer on your side from the start helps you avoid costly mistakes and makes your claim as strong as possible.
Consult a Car Accident Attorney in Nevada
A crash involving a Nevada state vehicle is more complex than a typical accident, but you don’t have to handle it alone. Turn to Carvalho & Associates Attorneys at Law for help. We have over 30 years of experience assisting accident victims across Nevada. Our Las Vegas-based personal injury attorney is available 24/7 and has a proven track record of making headlines with high-profile wins. Many clients travel from all over the state to work with us due to our excellent reputation. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your government vehicle accident, and we’ll help you navigate your claim.