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How to File an Out-of-State Car Accident Lawsuit


Las Vegas is one of the most popular tourist destinations on the planet. According to data from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA), more than 40 million people visit the city from outside Nevada each year. Of course, an accident can happen at any time—including when you are on a trip. This raises an important question: How do you file a car accident claim if your crash happened out-of-state? The short answer is you need a local attorney who is licensed to practice law in the jurisdiction where your crash actually happened. Within this blog post, our Las Vegas auto accident lawyer provides a comprehensive guide to filing an out-of-state car accident lawsuit in Nevada. 

Know the Law: Car Accident Liability Determines By State of Crash, Not State of Residence

Preparing to file a claim or a lawsuit after a serious car crash? If you were involved in a collision while in another state, it is crucial that you know how the law works. The laws of the state where the accident actually happened govern a claim. Your state of residence does not matter. Even if your licensed driver of another jurisdiction, it is still the state where the crash happened that matters. 

For example, imagine that you were in a bad accident with distracted driving while visiting Las Vegas on a business trip. Nevada law governs the claim. You would have to file any lawsuit in Nevada and the state’s laws—from the fault-based standard of liability to the modified comparative fault rule to the two-year statute of limitations—would all apply to your case. 

You Need a Local Attorney for Your Car Accident Claim

You do not have to take on the car accident claims process alone. It is normal to have a ton of questions after a bad crash. You should consult with a local attorney who is familiar with the regulations in Nevada. Here are three key advantages of working with a Las Vegas attorney after a crash in the city if you are visiting from out-of-state: 

  1. Investigation: A local attorney has the advantage of being geographically close to the scene of the accident. They can easily gather evidence, inspect the site, and interview witnesses. The proximity allows for a more thorough and immediate investigation of the crash—which is vital for gathering relevant evidence before it disappears. 
  2. Authority to Practice Law: Only an attorney licensed to practice law in the state where the accident occurred can represent you in court there. As an example, if your accident happened in Las Vegas, you will need an attorney who is licensed to practice law by the Nevada Bar Association. The proper professional legal standing grants a lawyer the right to file motions, represent you in court, and protect your rights and your interests. 
  3. Local Legal Knowledge: A local attorney in Las Vegas is not only familiar with state-specific laws and regulations but he or she will also have an understanding of the procedural nuances of the local courts. They have experience with the preferences and biases of local judges and are familiar with the strategies of local defense attorneys. Local insight can be invaluable in crafting a legal strategy that maximizes your chances of a favorable outcome.

Why Trust Ace Law Group for an Out-of-State Car Accident Lawsuit

Car accident injury claims are complicated—especially if you are involved in a crash outside of your home state. Unfortunately, you cannot rely on any insurance company to look out for your best interests. At Ace Law Group, we are ready to fight for you each and every step of the way. With a proven record of verdicts and settlements in a wide range of car accident claims, our attorneys are on the ground in Las Vegas. We are ready to investigate your crash and take action to help you secure the maximum compensation, including for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. 

Contact Our Las Vegas Out-of-State Motor Vehicle Attorney Today

At Ace Law Group, our Las Vegas auto accident attorneys fight aggressively to help injured victims secure the maximum financial compensation. If you were injured in a car crash while visiting Las Vegas from another state, we are here to help. Call us at 702-213-4998 or contact us online to arrange your no cost, no obligation initial legal consultation. Our firm handles car accident injury claims throughout Clark County, including in Henderson, North Las Vegas, and Boulder City.