Motorcycle Rear-End Collisions in Nevada: Should I Hire a Lawyer If I Was Rear-Ended?

Motorcycles offer freedom and excitement, but motorcycle accidents in Nevada are increasingly common. Daily news reports highlight serious and deadly crashes on Nevada roadways.

Motorcycle riders must stay vigilant about their surroundings and anticipate driver behavior to prevent accidents. Even when riders follow all traffic laws and wear helmets, accidents still happen.

Vehicles can’t stop as quickly as motorcycles, making rear-end collisions particularly dangerous for riders. In Nevada, the rear driver is presumed at fault in rear-end accidents—but that presumption isn’t absolute.

Nevada law requires drivers to maintain a safe following distance. Failing to do so is negligent. If you’re a motorcycle rider who was rear-ended, speak with a lawyer even if the rear driver appears at fault to understand your rights and options.

Rear-End Collisions and Fault in Nevada

In Nevada, rear-end accidents typically presume the rear driver is at fault. These crashes usually occur when the rear driver follows too closely and can’t stop in time.

If you’re rear-ended while riding, the rear driver may attempt to rebut this presumption and shift blame to you. Because these cases can be complex, having a personal injury attorney investigate proves the rear driver’s fault and protects you from wrongful blame.

Is the Rear Driver Always at Fault?

Nevada’s presumption of rear driver fault isn’t absolute. The rear driver’s attorney may argue the motorcycle rider shares blame by investigating the accident.

Common Challenges to Fault Presumption

• Negligent front rider: Sudden, unexpected braking, reversing without warning, or abrupt lane changes without signaling may indicate negligent behavior.
• Mechanical failure: Non-functioning brake lights or tail lights may shift partial blame to the motorcycle rider for failing to maintain their vehicle.
• Unsafe conditions: Nevada’s flooding during rain can make rear-end collisions unavoidable despite reasonable driving, potentially reducing or eliminating the rear driver’s liability.
• Following distance: In some cases, the lead driver’s actions make collision unavoidable even when the rear driver maintains a safe following distance, making both parties potentially at fault.

If you’ve been rear-ended while riding in Nevada, hire a personal injury attorney to investigate your case. The rear driver will likely hire legal representation to dispute their fault. Your attorney will investigate to prove the rear vehicle driver was indeed at fault.

How to Prove the Driver Rear-Ended Your Motorcycle

As a rear-ended motorcycle rider, you must advocate for yourself. Take these steps to strengthen your case:

Report the Accident and Get a Police Report

After ensuring everyone’s safety, report the accident to police. Nevada law requires reporting any accident involving injury or significant property damage. Request a police report—it contains the officer’s assessment of fault, witness statements, accident scene descriptions, and contributing conditions.

Gather Evidence

Beyond the police report, safely collect as much evidence as possible: photos, videos, and witness statements.

Medical Records

Keep detailed records of all medical procedures and expenses related to your rear-end motorcycle crash.

Property Damage

Document all motorcycle damage from the crash. Photograph damage at the scene and during repairs if possible.

Expert Reconstruction

Your attorney may recommend hiring an accident reconstruction expert to analyze evidence and recreate the accident scene, proving negligence.

Proving Negligence

You and your attorney must prove the rear driver was responsible for your accident through negligence. Establish that the driver breached their duty of care to operate safely, that breach caused the accident, and you suffered damages as a result.

Consult an Attorney

The insurance company and rear driver likely won’t agree with your assessment of fault and responsibility. Consulting an attorney helps you navigate the legal process and prove your claim.

When Should I Hire a Lawyer After a Rear-End Collision?

Being rear-ended on a motorcycle differs drastically from being hit in a car. The weight difference between vehicles can lead to devastating injuries and damage.

Speak with a lawyer as soon as possible. After ensuring your safety and seeing a doctor, hire a lawyer who can navigate the legal system, investigate the accident, and prove the rear driver’s negligence and responsibility.

Benefits of Hiring Richard Harris Law Firm Immediately

1. Dealing with insurance companies: Insurance companies often offer lowball settlements or deny claims to avoid paying what you’re owed. An attorney gives you an advantage when dealing with adjusters and ensures you receive the settlement you deserve.
2. Investigating the accident: Richard Harris Law Firm investigates your case and gathers evidence proving the rear driver was at fault.
3. Getting proper medical treatment: With over 40 years in Las Vegas, we have established relationships with medical experts. We connect you with the right doctors based on your injuries and have medical experts available to testify if needed in court.
4. Negotiating the best settlement: Our team negotiates with the at-fault driver’s insurance company to secure the best possible settlement. Each case is unique—settlements depend on accident severity and injuries.
5. Trial ready: If trial becomes necessary to secure what you deserve, our staff is ready. We attend every court appearance and hearing.
6. Statute of limitations: An attorney ensures your claim is filed within Nevada’s statute of limitations. You have two years from the accident date to file. Missing this deadline may forfeit your right to any claim or settlement. With Richard Harris, your claim is filed on time.
7. Contingency basis: Richard Harris Law Firm takes cases on contingency—you pay nothing upfront for your rear-end motorcycle accident. Our team works your case and receives payment only when we win and secure your settlement.
8. Free consultation: If you were involved in a motorcycle crash, contact our Reno or Las Vegas offices to schedule a free consultation. Speak with one of our expert lawyers who can explain what to expect moving forward.

Get the Compensation You Deserve

If you’ve been rear-ended while riding a motorcycle in Nevada, your first step after the accident should be hiring an experienced lawyer to protect your rights and navigate your case through the courts if necessary.

Richard Harris has represented clients in Nevada for over 40 years and has recovered over $1 billion in settlements. Our team is with you every step—from the beginning of your case until it’s settled and you receive the compensation you deserve.

Our goal is ensuring our clients are treated fairly and negligent parties are held accountable. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle or car accident, call Richard Harris Law Firm today to schedule a free consultation.