Las Vegas, a city known for its fun and excitement, attracts millions of visitors every year. However, with all these tourists, there is a higher chance of accidents, especially those involving out-of-state drivers who have been drinking.
If you get hurt in a car crash caused by a drunk driver from another state, things can get complicated.
Insurance must meet Nevada requirements
Around 40 million people visit Las Vegas annually. Approximately 52% of these tourists drive into town rather than fly.
Out-of-state drivers must have insurance that follows Nevada’s rules. Nevada says drivers must have insurance that covers at least $25,000 for one person’s injury or death, $50,000 for two or more people and $20,000 for property damage.
But here is the tricky part – the out-of-state driver’s insurance might be different. This can make it tough when you are trying to get compensated for your injuries.
Your insurance claim can face further complications depending on your injuries and whether the out-of-state driver’s insurance company is able to do business in Nevada. It becomes even tougher if the out-of-state driver does not have the right insurance.
Options if an out-of-state drunk driver’s insurance is not accepted in Nevada
In such cases, you might need to go after the driver’s money or use your own insurance, like uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. Even though it is not mandatory in Nevada, having this coverage is smart. It helps you get money quickly for all your injuries, no matter what the other driver’s insurance covers.
If the out-of-state driver’s insurance does not fully cover your injuries, you might have to sue them. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage helps, but it does not mean the at-fault driver gets away. Your insurance company might go after the at-fault driver to get back the money they paid you.
In serious cases, you might even be able to sue your insurance company to get the benefits you should get under your policy.
Dealing with a car accident caused by a drunk out-of-state driver is tough, but having a plan and knowing your rights can make things a bit easier.
Encourage responsible tourism
Challenges from out-of-state drunk tourists are not just individual concerns but community safety issues. To address these challenges, the community can promote responsible tourism, encouraging alternative transportation and fostering a culture of responsibility to reduce incidents involving intoxicated out-of-state visitors.