1) Safety first — protect people before property

Your priority is your health and everyone’s safety.

• If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 immediately.
• If you can move safely, get out of traffic and go to a protected area (sidewalk, shoulder, parking lot).
• Turn on hazard lights and, if you have them, set out warning triangles/flares.
• If you suspect a serious injury (head/neck/back), don’t move unless staying put is unsafe.

What matters: Insurance companies look closely at injuries and timing. Getting medical help quickly isn’t “dramatic”—it’s smart.

2) Call the police and get an official report

Even if the accident seems minor, an official report can be the difference between a smooth claim and a mess later.

• Ask the responding officer how to obtain the report number.
• If police can’t respond, file a report as directed and document everything yourself.

Why it matters: A police report creates a neutral record of what happened—especially when the other driver changes their story later.

3) Don’t admit fault — and keep the conversation simple

Be respectful, but careful.

• Don’t say “I’m sorry,” “That was my fault,” or “I didn’t see you.”
• Don’t argue at the scene.
• Don’t guess or speculate. Stick to short, factual statements.

Say this instead:

• “Are you okay?”
• “Let’s exchange information.”
• “The police will help document what happened.”

Why it matters: Fault is determined by evidence—not by courtesy phrases that get twisted later.

4) Document the scene like it matters — because it does

You don’t need to be a detective. Just gather what you can while it’s fresh.

Photos and video to capture

• Wide shots of the entire scene (all vehicles, positions, traffic lights/signs)
• Close-ups of damage on both vehicles
• License plates and VIN (if accessible)
• Skid marks, debris, road conditions, weather/visibility
• Any injuries (bruising, cuts) if appropriate
• A quick walk-through video narrating what you see (date/time/location)

Information to collect

• Full name, phone number, address (driver + owner if different)
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company + policy number
• Vehicle make/model/color
• Witness names and phone numbers

Pro tip: If there are witnesses, politely ask:
“Would you be willing to share what you saw if insurance calls you?”

5) Get medical attention — even if you “feel fine”

A lot of common crash injuries show up later:

• Whiplash / soft tissue injuries
• Concussions
• Back and neck injuries
• Shoulder/knee injuries

Do this:

• If pain, dizziness, numbness, confusion, or headache starts—go get checked same day.
• Follow up with your doctor and keep your appointments.
• Keep records of prescriptions, diagnoses, referrals, and work restrictions.

Why it matters: Medical documentation connects your injuries to the crash.

6) Be careful with insurance calls (yours and theirs)

Insurance companies may sound friendly. Their job is to reduce payout.Avoid:

• Recorded statements (especially to the other driver’s insurer) without advice
• Signing medical authorizations that give access to your entire history
• Quick settlement offers before you understand your injuries

Do this instead:

• Provide basic facts: time, location, parties involved
• Tell them you’re still getting evaluated medically
• If you’re unsure, pause and get guidance

7) Protect your claim after the crash

Small mistakes can cost big money later.Do not:

• Post about the accident or injuries on social media
• Miss medical appointments
• Downplay pain to doctors
• Repair the car before it’s photographed (unless necessary—document first)

Do:

• Save receipts (meds, rideshare, medical devices, copays)
• Keep a simple daily log of symptoms and limitations
• Track time missed from work

8) Consult an attorney early — so you don’t step on landmines

The earlier you get guidance, the more protected you are.
An attorney can help:

• Communicate with insurance so you don’t get trapped in a recorded statement
• Make sure your medical treatment is documented properly
• Identify all sources of recovery (insurance layers, employer coverage, rideshare policies, etc.)
• Fight for full compensation: medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future care

Bottom line: Cars are replaceable. You’re not. And the choices you make right after a crash can shape your recovery—physically and financially.

Call to Action (Website-ready)

If you were injured in a traffic accident in Las Vegas, we can help. Contact Eric Roy Injury Law Firm to understand your options and protect your claim. No fee unless we win.