Las Vegas is known for its bright lights and bustling atmosphere, but accidents can happen at any time. If you get injured in a car crash on the Strip, slip in a casino, or get hurt at an event, what you do right after can affect your recovery and any legal claims you might make later. While it’s important to talk to a lawyer, there are several steps you should take first to protect your health and future. In the confusion and excitement after an injury, it can be easy to forget important tasks. However, knowing what to do right away can really help. Here are eight things you must do after an Injury in Las Vegas, before thinking about legal action. Taking these actions can help gather evidence, ensure proper documentation, and support your medical and legal needs.
8 Things You Must Do Immediately After an Injury in Las Vegas
1. Check for Injuries and Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your priority should always be your health. Assess yourself and others involved in the incident for any visible injuries or signs of trauma. Even if you think you’re okay, internal injuries, concussions, or soft tissue damage may not show symptoms right away. If the injury appears serious or life-threatening, call 911 without delay.
Even in cases where emergency services aren’t needed, visit an urgent care center or emergency room as soon as possible. Medical documentation is essential and serves as a timeline of your injury and its severity. Additionally, a doctor’s evaluation can uncover underlying issues that could worsen if untreated. This record will also serve as key evidence should you need to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action later.
2. Secure the Scene and Prevent Further Harm
If you’re physically able, try to secure the area where the injury occurred to prevent additional accidents. For instance, if you’re in a car accident, move your vehicle out of traffic if it’s safe to do so. In the case of a slip and fall, notify the property owner or manager so they can address the hazard that caused your injury.
By taking steps to reduce further danger, you protect others and demonstrate responsibility. You also help ensure that the circumstances of your injury remain intact for later documentation. Promptly addressing hazards or marking them (e.g., using cones or warning others) can also show that you acted in good faith, which may be valuable in future legal discussions.
3. Call the Police or File an Incident Report
Whether you’re involved in a traffic collision or injured on private property, official documentation is vital. For auto accidents, law enforcement will file a police report that includes statements, evidence, and their preliminary findings. This report can serve as a neutral, third-party account of the events that occurred.
In non-traffic-related injuries, like slips, falls, or event-related injuries, report the incident to the business or property owner immediately. Request a written incident report and ensure that you receive a copy. This record can provide early verification of the event and ensure there is no dispute later about when or where the injury happened.
4. Document the Scene and Gather Evidence
While waiting for emergency services or property staff, use your smartphone to take photos and videos of the scene. Capture your injuries, any hazards (like a wet floor or broken handrail), weather conditions, or vehicle damage. Visual evidence provides powerful support to your claims and can be pivotal if the details are contested later.
Additionally, collect names and contact information for any witnesses. Eyewitness accounts can corroborate your version of events, especially if others attempt to downplay their liability. The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your case will be, and the easier it will be for any lawyer to assist you later on.
5. Keep a Record of Everything
Begin a record of everything that happens after your injury. This should include your medical visits, symptoms, how your injury affects daily life, time off work, and any communications with insurers or property owners. Keeping a journal can help establish the physical, emotional, and financial toll the injury has taken.
Save all receipts, reports, and documents related to your injury. These can include medical bills, prescriptions, transportation costs, or repairs. These records not only aid in your recovery but also strengthen your case if you later seek compensation for damages.
6. Avoid Making Statements That Admit Fault
In the moments after an injury, especially if you’re shaken, it’s natural to apologize or say things like “I should have been more careful.” However, avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. These words can be used against you by insurance companies or opposing parties later on.
Instead, stick to the facts when speaking to police, property staff, or witnesses. Your role is to report what happened, not to assign blame or take responsibility prematurely. Fault is a legal conclusion that should be determined after a thorough investigation, not in the heat of the moment.
7. Refrain from Posting About the Injury on Social Media
Social media posts can easily be taken out of context and used against you. Even seemingly innocent updates or photos can raise questions about the extent of your injury or your credibility. Insurance adjusters and defense attorneys often scour public posts for evidence that undermines a claim.
Instead of sharing your experience online, keep your communications about the incident private and limited. Save your story for the professionals who can actually help your case. Once your claim is resolved, you’ll have the freedom to discuss your experience if you choose to do so.
8. Understand Your Insurance Obligations
Before contacting a lawyer, you may be required to notify your insurance provider of the incident. Be aware of the deadlines and requirements outlined in your policy. Failing to notify your insurer promptly can lead to denied claims or reduced compensation.
That said, when you report the injury, provide only the necessary facts and avoid speculating or assuming blame. You’re simply fulfilling your duty to inform. Keep a record of the date and content of the report and save any correspondence. Later, when you do contact a lawyer, they’ll have a clearer picture of how your insurance company responded.
The Janda Law Firm Accident & Injury Lawyer
Address: 2020 Wellness Wy #300A, Las Vegas, NV 89106
Phone: (702) 758-8888
