How does liability insurance affect car accidents in Nevada?
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Oct 03, 2014
After a car accident there are many questions. One of the most important questions is, who is at fault? If another driver directly caused a car accident that resulted in serious injury or damages that driver, or the driver’s insurance company, may be liable for damages. Many people involved in car accidents have questions about how car insurance affects the accident.
Specific insurance details depend on the insurance company and coverage, but liability insurance is standard for all drivers in Nevada. Liability insurance is defined as insurance coverage that pays for damage to another driver’s car and any injuries resulting from a car accident for which a driver is found at fault. The minimum threshold for liability insurance is as follows:
$15,000 of bodily injury coverage per person
$30,000 of bodily injury coverage per accident
$10,000 of property damage coverage
These amounts of coverage are often referred to as “15/30/10″ by insurance companies. It is possible to be insured for more than this amount of coverage as it relates to another driver’s vehicle or healthcare costs. Oftentimes when filing a claim where another driver is at fault, it can be difficult to collect for the dollar amount that you are claiming. It is important to understand the complete facts surrounding the accidents and how Nevada law applies to the situation.
Car accidents are a scary and unfortunate occurrence. They do happen every day in Nevada and come with a range of property damages and related healthcare expenses. After an accident it is recommended that the people involved contact their insurance company immediately in order to begin processing the claim. Any other money that a person believes they are owed due to fault of the other driver can be more difficult to collect.
Source: dmv.org, ” Car Insurance in Nevada ,” Accessed Sept. 22, 2014
Five-car crash near Lake Mead leaves 1 injured, another with DUI
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Oct 03, 2014
In driver’s education, one of the first things the instructor teaches his or her students is to look both ways before crossing an intersection and to always obey traffic signals. This is a tactic that most use every day while driving. Sometimes drivers fail to exercise this golden rule. A driver suspected of causing a drunk driving accident may have ignored this rule, and it led to an accident involving 5 vehicles and leaving at least one victim with serious injuries.
The crash happened at the intersection of Lake Mead Boulevard and Lamb Boulevard. A Chevrolet Tahoe headed eastbound blew through the intersection after failing to heed a red light. When crossing the intersection, the Tahoe collided with an Oldsmobile and pushed the vehicle into three others that were stopped on the other side of the intersection. The three vehicles across the intersection suffered property damage only; however, the driver of the Oldsmobile wasn’t so lucky. The driver was airlifted to a nearby hospital with reported traumatic injury.
The driver of the Tahoe attempted to flee the scene of the accident after the crash. Authorities apprehended the suspect and administered a field sobriety test, which the driver failed. The suspect has now been charged with felony DUI with bodily harm and felony hit-and-run. The current health condition of the victim has not yet been reported. The case is still under investigation.
Accidents where innocent drivers are hit by a drunk driver are difficult for hear about. Undoubtedly, the injured driver will have the toughest time recovering from the crash. The driver’s health is the first concern, and often hefty medical bills accompany the recuperation. It is important that the victim, along with the victim’s family, put time into figuring out both what happened and whether they are entitled to monetary damages resulting from the accident.
Source: jrn.com, “Police investigating 5 car crash, one driver arrested for felony DUI,” Rebecca Lewis, Sept. 28, 2014
Truck accidents in Nevada more complicated to prosecute
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Sep 19, 2014
Have you been injured in a motor vehicle accident involving a truck like an 18-wheeler? You may have access to monetary compensation based on your injuries and accident-related expenses. Injuries inflicted due to accidents with semi-trucks are often more serious than those suffered in regular motor vehicle accidents. It is important to assess your injuries to determine if compensation should be sought.
Eighteen wheeler accidents present unique issues not associated with motor vehicle accidents. These differences include:
Greater likelihood of serious injuries or deaths
Insurance coverage
Licensing compliance and regulatory compliance
Negligent hiring and supervision claims
Negligent maintenance claims
These differences can change the legal landscape of your claim. The majority of it is based on trucking regulation as governed under Nevada and federal law. Any regulation that was not adhered to by the trucking company, as related to the accident, can mean additional compensation for your injuries.
Many truck accidents occur between regular citizens driving motor vehicles and semi-trucks. Such trucks are typically owned by a trucking company, not privately owned like other vehicles on the road. There can be a whole slew of litigation connected to truck accidents that are not applicable in regular car accidents. It is important to understand the difference if involved in an accident with a semi-truck.
It is important to consult with an expert if you believe you have a claim against a trucking company. Serious injuries can hold lifelong consequences for victims of truck accidents. Any compensation owed to a person who suffers from injuries related to truck accidents will be sought after by the experienced professionals at BRADLEY DRENDEL & JEANNEY. Trust us to gather information and settle your claim for injuries that you may have suffered in a trucking accident.
Nevada police increase patrol during holiday weekend
Nevada police increase patrol during holiday weekend
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Sep 12, 2014
Thousands are arrested on drunken driving charges every year. Now, more than ever, penalties for drunk driving are increasing in severity, especially penalties for repeat offenders. According to the Nevada Department of Public Safety, increased police patrols were in effect during this past Labor Day weekend, in an effort to prevent drunk driving accidents.
Almost a third of all 2013 fatal crashes in Nevada involved an impaired driver, according to officials. Last year, 131 motorists and 57 motorcyclists were killed on Nevada roads. The increased patrols were looking for impaired drivers through September 7th. According to the AAA weather forecast, the traffic was up compared to last year.
Drunk driving can have devastating consequences as previously discussed. When a person drives under the influence of alcohol it puts themselves and everyone on the road at risk. There are also several penalties imposed on drunk drivers if discovered. Penalties range from fines and license suspensions to jail time. Under Nevada state law, impaired driving penalties are directly related to the severity of the offense or if the offender is a repeat offender.
For Nevada residents who may have witnessed more patrols on the road during the holiday weekend, it was for preventative measures. The added patrols were on the lookout for drunk drivers, with the goal of keeping everyone on the road safe. It is always best to avoid getting behind the wheel after ingesting alcohol, but for those who have been injured due to a drunk driver, compensation may be available by filing a personal injury suit.
Source: Las Vegas Sun, ” Police stepping up patrols for drunken drivers ,” Katie Visconti, Aug. 25, 2014
Spinal cord injury common complaint after car accident
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Sep 05, 2014
We have already discussed how another driver’s actions can constitute reckless driving in Nevada. These types of car accidents can result in serious injuries for the passengers involved in the accident. There are several possible injuries that can occur after a car accident. One serious injury that can have lifelong consequences are spinal cord injuries.
Spinal cord injuries can affect the lower, middle or upper spine including the neck. The brunt force impact of some car accidents can jolt the spine in such a way that causes serious injury to the area. Results of an injured spine can be paralysis or loss of feeling and movement in certain areas of the body. Car accidents can also result in whiplash which is the sudden movement of the head and neck.
Whiplash is a very common complaint after car accidents, especially after rear-end collisions. The sudden movement of the head and neck causes neck muscle and ligament damage. Pain and swelling are frequent symptoms of whiplash. It is also possible for whiplash victims to experience temporary vocal cord paralysis after a car accident.
If a person was involved in a car accident where a spinal cord injury or whiplash was sustained, it is important to speak with a medical professional about the medical symptoms. It is also crucial to investigate the facts of the crash thoroughly. If injuries sustained during a car accident were due to the negligence of another driver, the affected driver should fully investigate in order to claim any damages owed to him or her. If chosen, the attorney representing the injured will work tirelessly to ensure the best outcome for the client.
Source: findlaw.com, ” Types of Car Accident Injuries ,” Accessed Sept. 1, 2014
What constitutes reckless driving in Nevada?
What constitutes reckless driving in Nevada?
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Aug 28, 2014
After a car accident associated with serious injuries, many victims have questions about their rights. If the other driver involved in the accident was at fault, the affected party could be eligible for compensation for their injuries. It is important to understand the facts of the accident in order to accuse someone of fault. Car accidents are typically governed by the rules of negligence, however in cases of reckless driving, if the accused can prove evidence of reckless or aggressive driving, negligence need not be proved.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Association aims to reduce the number of car accidents. In 2012, they recorded 5,615,000 car accidents reported to the police. That is an astonishing number and many people die or are seriously injured in car accidents every year due to reckless drivers. Legally, an affected party may have a case against a person who is accused of reckless driving.
Reckless driving is defined as a driver who has intentional or reckless conduct. This means that their actions prove that they were not being negligent while driving — in fact, the driver was acting unlawful while driving. Unlawful driving includes speeding above posted speed limits, driving too fast for road conditions, illegal or excessive lane changing and improper passing — such as using the shoulder or without using a turn signal. Driving in this manner is against the law and considered reckless since it endangers the lives of the driver and others on the road.
If awarded damages, the victim could be compensated for medical expenses, loss of wages or pain and suffering due to the accident. Reckless driving laws are imposed in order to keep members of the community safe while driving. It is important to know the details of a crash investigation and how those facts play into state law governing reckless driving. The NHTSA hopes to minimize the number and severity of car accidents around the United States and to make the roads a safer place for all.
Source: findlaw.com, ” Car Accident Basics ,” Accessed August 25, 2014
Source: findlaw.com, ” Car Accident Basics ,” Accessed August 25, 2014
Nevada pedestrian struck by alleged drunk driver
Nevada pedestrian struck by alleged drunk driver
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Aug 21, 2014
Car accidents involving two vehicles can be scary. These accidents are not as terrifying as those between a vehicle and a pedestrian. These types of accidents happen and can cause serious injuries or even death. A Nevada resident was allegedly struck and seriously injured by a drunk driver while pushing his bicycle across Flamingo Road, in Las Vegas.
The pedestrian who was struck was pushing his bicycle across the road — outside of the marked crosswalk when the driver of a Chevrolet Camaro heading eastbound on Flamingo hit him. His injuries are categorized as serious and the pedestrian was rushed to a local hospital. The driver was given a field sobriety test by officers and failed. He was arrested on one count of driving while intoxicated.
The investigation is currently ongoing. Details were not released concerning the driver’s blood alcohol level. It’s possible there could be further charges due to the severity of the pedestrian’s injuries sustained from the drunk driving accident. DUI is a serious offense that has a range of penalties as governed by state law and the severity of the offense in question.
In cases where pedestrians are struck by a drunk driver, it is sad to think that this event could have been prevented. Simply the driver of the Camaro choosing not to get behind the wheel would have prevented this terrible accident from ever happening. Safety of everyone on the road should be the first priority of all drivers on the road today. Especially in a city like Las Vegas where pedestrians are everywhere, drunk driving is highly discouraged — and illegal.
Source: Las Vegas Sun, ” Man arrested on DUI count after pedestrian hit crossing road ,” Aug. 11, 2014
Source: Las Vegas Sun, ” Man arrested on DUI count after pedestrian hit crossing road ,” Aug. 11, 2014
Driver believed impaired at time of rollover crash in Nevada
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Aug 14, 2014
The terrifying thing about impaired drivers is that they could be anywhere at any time. Even if people are the safest driver on the road and aware of their surroundings, they can still become involved in a drunk driving accident. These accidents sometimes cause serious injuries to the sober driver involved in the accident. An event like this happened last week on Nevada’s Jones Boulevard where a man was rushed to the hospital after a car crash involving a suspected drunk driver.
The victim was cruising right along in his Chevrolet, heading southbound on Jones Boulevard, when the crash occurred. The suspected impaired driver came up behind the Chevrolet in his Subaru and while straddling the middle lane, struck the Chevy from behind. This caused the Chevrolet to rollover near the intersection of Jones Blvd and Hacienda Avenue. Witnesses claim the Subaru did not slow down before it struck the Chevy.
The driver of the Chevy is listed in critical condition and the driver of the Subaru is reported as awaiting prosecution under suspicion of impaired driving. It’s possible that the driver could face charges for felony DUI since bodily harm resulted from the accident.
Driving under the influence is a serious crime that can have horrendous consequences, like the serious injuries sustained to the driver of the Chevrolet. Exercising extreme care while driving will help to avoid accidents such as this from happening. It is never wise to get behind the wheel if intoxicated. There are several consequences that can stem from driving while intoxicated.
Source: Las Vegas Sun, ” One in critical condition after rollover accident on Jones Boulevard ,” Adwoa Fosu, Aug. 3, 2014
Nevada bicyclist killed after run-in with suspected drunk driver
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Aug 06, 2014
Bicyclists are becoming more and more common on Nevada’s roadways. Some people like the exercise of riding, some may be trying to beat gas prices and others just enjoy riding a bike. Drivers in other vehicles must share the road with bicyclists. Sometimes, however, accidents happen between bicyclists and vehicles, which usually end in serious injuries or even death for the bicyclist. Such was the case when a vehicle recently struck and killed a bicyclist near Las Vegas Boulevard.
Details have emerged that suggest the bicyclist’s death was due to a drunk driving accident. According to Nevada Highway Patrol, the man was riding his bicycle on Frias Avenue near Las Vegas Boulevard when a woman driving a Nissan sedan struck him from behind. The man was rushed to University Medical Center where he later died. The state trooper on the case said the woman who caused the accident is suspected of driving under the influence.
DUI is a serious crime especially when it is connected to the death of another person on the road. The woman could face an array of charges related to her liability in the bicyclist’s death. In addition, once the investigation is concluded, the woman could also face a civil lawsuit from the victim’s family.
Driving under the influence is a crime that can have severe consequences. One of those consequences can be the death of another person. When a person is intoxicated it severely impairs their judgment and reaction time. Safety of others should always be every driver’s first priority.
Source: mynews3.com, ” Coroner id’s bicyclist killed by suspected DUI driver by South Point Casino ,” July 26, 2014
Man on motorcycle dies after hit-and-run by pickup in Nevada
On Behalf of Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney • Jul 30, 2014
Summer is a time where all drivers need to be aware of other drivers on the road. This is especially true because of the increase in motorcycles on the roads during the summer months. Many motorcycle accidents happen when inattentive drivers collide with motorcyclists. These accidents can cause serious injuries or even death.
A pickup collided with a motorcyclist on July 4th and the crash has reportedly claimed the life of the motorcyclist.
According to Nevada Highway Patrol, a man was struck riding his motorcycle on Tyler Way at the intersection of Pyramid Way. A 1998 Ford pickup reportedly turned left from Pyramid Way and into the path of the motorcyclist, which sent him to the hospital with serious injuries that caused his death.
Originally, the driver of the pickup stopped at the accident sight, but later fled the scene. The pickup driver’s cell phone was left behind however, and the police were able to track down the driver. He has been arrested on suspicion of felony hit-and-run.
Felony hit-and-run is a serious charge. The charge was made before the passing of the motorcyclist and according to Nevada state law, the charge does not change in light of the motorcyclist’s death. It is possible that other charges could follow now that the motorcycle crash is fatal. It’s feasible to think that the driver of the pickup could face potential involuntary manslaughter charges due to the death of the motorcyclist.
This story is a harrowing reminder of how dangerous the roads can be. In the blink of an eye, a motorcyclist could be struck and thrown from his bike. Safety should be the number one priority for all drivers, motorcyclists and other drivers alike. The negligent driver will face the pending charge and possibly others for the death of the motorcyclist. In addition, the family of the deceased motorcyclist may pursue civil claims against the driver.
Source: Reno Gazette-Journal, ” Motorcyclist injured in July 4 Sparks crash dies ,” Steve Timko, July 16, 201


