When a child is injured in a car accident in Nevada, the stakes feel infinitely higher. Parents worry not only about immediate medical care but also about long-term recovery, emotional trauma, and how their child’s future might be affected. Nevada law recognizes these unique challenges and has special protections in place when minors are involved in personal injury claims.
If your child has been injured in a motor vehicle crash, here’s what you need to know about your legal rights and the steps you can take to safeguard their future.
Why Child Injury Claims Are Different
Children are especially vulnerable in car accidents. Their bodies are still developing, making them more prone to serious injuries such as head trauma, spinal injuries, or internal damage. Children can also suffer lasting emotional harm, including anxiety and post-traumatic stress.
Because minors cannot represent themselves in court or negotiate legal claims, Nevada law requires parents or legal guardians to take on this responsibility. This ensures decisions are made with the child’s best interests in mind, but it also means there are extra rules and procedures to follow. Working with a Nevada child injury lawyer ensures your child’s rights are fully protected.
Who Can File a Claim on Behalf of a Child Injured in a Car Accident in?
Under Nevada law, a minor (anyone under 18) cannot file a personal injury lawsuit on their own. Instead, if a child is injured in a car accident in Nevada a parent or legal guardian must file the claim on their behalf. This includes seeking compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to the crash
- Rehabilitation and long-term care needs
- Pain and suffering the child experienced
- Future damages if the injury leads to permanent disability or reduced quality of life
In some cases, the court may appoint a guardian ad litem to ensure the child’s rights are fully protected.
Statute of Limitations: Extended Protection for Children
Normally, Nevada’s statute of limitations gives injured adults two years from the date of an accident to file a personal injury claim. For children, the timeline works differently. The statute of limitations is “tolled” (paused) until the child turns 18. Once they reach adulthood, they generally have two years from their 18th birthday (until age 20) to file a lawsuit.
Even though this extended protection exists, it’s still crucial to seek immediate medical treatment and explore legal options as soon as possible when a child is injured in a car accident in Nevada. Waiting too long to file a claim may not be in the best interest of the child, as evidence can fade and the healing process may be delayed without timely care. Acting early helps protect both their health and their legal rights.
Court Oversight: NRS 41.200
One of the most important protections for minors in Nevada is NRS 41.200, which governs how settlements for children are handled. Here’s what it requires:
- Court Petition: Parents or guardians must petition the court to approve any settlement reached on behalf of a minor. This ensures the settlement is fair and in the child’s best interest.
- Blocked Accounts: If a settlement is approved, the proceeds are usually placed in a blocked financial account or structured investment. The money cannot be withdrawn without court approval until the child turns 18.
- Fee Protections: Families are not charged filing fees for these proceedings, reducing financial strain during an already difficult time.
This process is designed to prevent exploitation and to ensure that compensation is used to benefit the child, not others.
Compensation That Looks Ahead
When a child is injured in a car accident in Nevada, compensation isn’t just about today’s medical bills. The right settlement should account for the child’s long-term needs, which may include:
- Ongoing therapy or rehabilitation
- Specialized educational support if the injury impacts learning
- Future surgeries or treatments
- Adaptive equipment or mobility aids
- Emotional and psychological care
An experienced child car accident lawyer in Nevada can work with medical experts, and life-care planners to calculate what your child may need over the course of a lifetime.
Protecting Children’s Futures
Every parent wants their child to have the best chance at a healthy, fulfilling life. When an accident interrupts that path, the law gives families the tools to fight for justice and secure the resources needed for long-term recovery.
At Hale Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate both your child’s healing and the legal system. Our team is committed to guiding families through each step — from filing claims and securing court approval to fighting for settlements that reflect the true impact of your child’s injuries.
Keep Your Family Safe
Back-to-school season is a reminder of how much we want to protect our children as they grow and learn. Unfortunately, car accidents are a leading cause of injury for kids in Nevada. Knowing your legal options can make all the difference in ensuring they have the care, support, and financial resources they need.
If your child has been injured in a car accident, don’t wait to seek guidance. Contact Hale Injury Law today to speak with a compassionate attorney who will fight to protect your child’s future.