Experienced Injury Attorney in Reno

Put Years of Experience in Your Corner

The last thing anyone expects during their daily routine is to suffer a serious injury. At the Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, our Reno attorney has helped many individuals and families navigate the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that follow unexpected accidents and injuries.

With more than 30 years of experience, our firm is dedicated to helping you if you've been the victim of an accident someone else caused. As a trusted injury attorney in Reno, we have the extensive knowledge necessary to file a personal injury claim to seek the proper compensation you need and deserve.

We understand the finer points of Nevada law that can affect injury cases, so we provide tailored legal guidance to help clients navigate every legal step with clarity. Our mission is to keep you fully informed and confident as your case progresses.

On This Page

• Understanding Your Case
• There Must Be Claims Under Nevada Law
• Elements of a Personal Injury Case
• First-Party Claims vs Third-Party Claims
• Important Questions to Consider
• Your Case Value
• Types of Accident & Injury Cases We Handle in Reno
• What to Expect During the Injury Legal Process in Reno
• Types of Damages You Can Recover
• Documenting Evidence of Your Damages
• Should I Settle Before Going to Trial?
• How We Can Help
• Why Hire Us
• Understanding Local Reno Injury Laws & Regulations
• Common Injuries in Reno & Surrounding Areas
• Frequently Asked Questions About Injury Cases

Call (775) 573-0229 today to speak with our legal team in a complimentary case evaluation.

In every legal case, you must prove both liability (legal responsibility) and damages. You may suffer harm in an auto accident and have damages, but if the other driver is not legally responsible, you will not have a strong claim against them.

Likewise, you might be in an accident where someone else is at fault, but without any clear injuries, you may not have a viable personal injury case. These legal distinctions matter, so support from an injury lawyer in Reno is crucial. Our team carefully investigates accidents to gather reliable evidence that can help build a solid claim.

There are many types of claims that may arise in a personal injury case. These include:

• Negligence
• Negligence per se (when a law has been violated)
• Breach of contract
• Insurance bad faith

These claims commonly develop through Nevada court decisions, statutes, or regulations created by agencies. Most personal injury cases proceed under common law. Each claim type has specific legal standards. Our team relies on the distinct requirements set out in Nevada law to build legal arguments for your situation.

All claims involve multiple elements. In Nevada—as in many states—to prove negligence, you need to show through evidence such as testimony or records that:

• The defendant owed a duty of care to the plaintiff (the person bringing the claim).
• The defendant breached that duty.
• The breach directly caused the plaintiff's injuries.
• The plaintiff suffered damages.

Questions about when a defendant owes a duty of care, what actions breach that duty, or which damages are compensable can vary by state. Lawyers research applicable law to understand how the individual case fits these requirements. Our team interprets these elements as Nevada courts do so we can pursue the best possible outcome for you.

Most personal injury claims go against another party's insurance provider—a "third-party claim." You may also file a "first-party claim" under your own medical or property insurance if you have coverage. If your insurance pays for your medical or repair bills, it may seek repayment from the party responsible for your injuries.

The strategy behind first-party and third-party claims can affect how and when compensation is recovered. Knowing which claim(s) to file and how to approach negotiations can help you secure the fairest resolution.

Before starting a claim, consider the following key factors:

• What is the statute of limitations for your claim?
• Who are the attorneys involved?
• Which insurance companies are part of the case?
• Is your case in arbitration? Who is the arbitrator?
• Is your claim before a judge, and if so, who?
• Will a jury be involved?
• How will the parties, attorneys, and jury interact?

To learn more, contact the Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates at (775) 573-0229 today.

How much is your case worth? The answer depends on factors unique to each case. Your case's value comes from what compensation you can realistically recover.

Assessing the value of a personal injury case in Reno involves looking at the type and severity of harm, how Nevada law applies, and how local courts view damages. Medical bills, lost wages, documentation, and even how juries in Washoe County view a case all play roles in what outcome is possible.

You should also consider how hard certain claims are to prove, plus the likelihood the defense may have a strong argument, like comparative negligence. Lawyers assess the damages first, then discuss that no one can predict exactly how much you might recover at a trial.

This is where an experienced injury attorney can help guide you. We help clarify the risks and benefits of settling a claim or seeking a verdict in court so you can plan wisely.

The team at Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates serves clients with a wide range of accidents and personal injury cases in Reno and greater Northern Nevada. The region's active highways and variety of recreational opportunities mean accidents happen in many ways. We represent people involved in car and truck accidents, motorcycle and bicycle crashes, pedestrian incidents, and injuries on unsafe property, such as stores or rental homes. Many cases in our area stem from slip-and-fall accidents during winter or injuries at construction sites, as well as animal attacks and dog bites around both urban and rural neighborhoods.

Different accident types have distinct legal considerations. For instance, a multi-vehicle crash along I-80 may involve complex insurance questions, and injuries that happen at Lake Tahoe or local parks often involve unique liability issues. We adapt to each situation, including product injuries or incidents at public events. No matter the details, our team focuses on open communication and personalized guidance so every client receives clear support throughout their case.

If you pursue a personal injury claim in Reno, the legal process moves through several stages. From the start, we aim to clarify these steps so you feel prepared. First, we collect detailed information about your accident, injuries, and what happened before, during, and after the event. This often means reviewing police reports, securing medical records from local healthcare providers, and speaking with those who witnessed the incident. Since Nevada follows modified comparative negligence rules, every detail may impact liability and recoverable damages.

Once we have the necessary evidence, we work with you to understand what compensation the law affords. Nevada generally gives you two years from the date of the incident to file a claim, so timeliness matters. Providing documentation—such as pay records, treatment details, and scene photos—can make your claim stronger. Most cases settle through negotiation, but if a fair agreement can't be reached, your claim may go to court. Washoe County judges and juries then evaluate the case. Throughout, we keep you informed and strive for transparent, supportive communication, empowering you to make decisions with confidence.

When pursuing a claim, different types of damages may apply depending on your situation.

Out-of-pocket loss:
If you paid out of pocket for hospital bills, therapy, medical equipment, lost earnings, or repairs after an accident, you may claim those losses as damages.

Injury cases in the Reno area often mean significant out-of-pocket expenses, especially if you needed to visit local specialists or sought treatment in nearby cities. Documenting these costs and sharing them with your legal team strengthens your case and helps achieve an accurate claim.

General damages:
General damages cover pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment, inability to participate in daily activities, difficulties at work, emotional distress, and loss of companionship or support.

Punitive damages:
Punitive damages are for cases of willful or malicious behavior, fraud, or gross misconduct. Courts use them to punish a defendant when their conduct is especially harmful. In Nevada, these damages are not available for negligence, but may be awarded when intentional acts are proven. The court will look at the defendant's financial situation as part of the process.

Knowing what damages may be available and the evidence required for each type is crucial for building a strong personal injury case in Nevada.

Gather and keep all medical records, bills, and pay stubs as you work with your injury lawyer. Wage losses can be proven with job records and tax returns, while hospital or clinic documentation supports claims for medical care.

Hospitals such as Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno can supply records that support your claim. Collecting complete medical summaries and itemized bills helps insurance companies and courts in Nevada assess your damages. Well-organized, detailed evidence gives you a stronger negotiating position for settlement and helps your legal team respond quickly to any questions that arise. Good documentation can keep your case on track and help minimize unnecessary delays.

Thorough records, including notes on communications, strengthen your case and help your lawyer pursue full compensation for your losses.

Deciding when to settle a case involves weighing costs, the risk of trial, and the impact of rising expenses. Often, higher medical costs mean higher damages, but much depends on the facts and how insurance companies value the claim.

Those injured in Northern Nevada may need to consider the typical wait times in Washoe County courts, the influence of local insurance practices, and the role of experienced mediators. After you have finished medical treatment or when liability is well established, insurers may be more open to negotiating a fair settlement. Staying alert to recent settlement trends in the Reno region can help you decide when to consider an offer.

While insurance carriers in Nevada sometimes use formulas to determine settlement offers—often two to three times medical expenses for soft tissue injuries—the details of each case matter. Costs tend to rise after litigation begins, with court fees, depositions, and expert testimony. Resolving your case when the facts are clear, but before full litigation, may offer the best chance for a reasonable outcome. An experienced personal injury attorney will discuss settlement options so you can make an informed decision.

Our team takes a hands-on approach to support clients who face challenging accidents and injuries. A personal injury lawyer in Reno stands by your side, helping you and your family every step of the way so you never feel alone during your claim.

As a client, you benefit from our experience with Nevada injury law and relationships with local healthcare providers. Where your accident happened—on major highways, in recreation areas, or elsewhere near Reno—can affect which rules apply and what types of compensation may become available. We provide practical guidance so you can move forward after an accident with confidence and clarity.

Our reach includes claims from bike and boating accidents, product defect incidents, and dog bite injuries. We believe in a thorough, supportive process and work to keep you informed. Clear communication, tailored advice, and reliable support help each client as they pursue their personal injury claim.

If you were injured because of another person's negligent or reckless actions, it is best to seek legal guidance as quickly as possible. Our firm has provided award-winning advice to clients for decades, and we remain confident in our ability to help people move forward after a serious accident.

Hiring the right injury attorney in Reno means choosing someone with deep local knowledge and a reputation for honest, practical advice. At Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates, we focus on clear communication from the very first contact. Many of our new clients find us through referrals from friends and family who appreciated our hands-on and transparent approach. We listen, guide, and strategize with you, whether your accident happened in the heart of Reno, Sparks, or another part of Washoe County.

Our lead attorney received the 2014 Avvo Client's Choice Award in Personal Injury. Our founder is rated 10.0 Superb by Avvo and recognized by The National Trial Lawyers Association as a Top 100 Trial Lawyer.

We care deeply about our clients and their outcomes. Every case begins with a careful understanding of your goals, a discussion of your rights, and a plan tailored to your situation. With a personal injury attorney from the Law Offices of Steven J. Klearman & Associates representing you, you can focus on healing while we handle your legal concerns. Our commitment to clients throughout Reno is unwavering, and we always strive for results that support your needs and future goals.

Were you injured in a negligence-related accident? Contact our firm today at (775) 573-0229.

Personal injury claims in Reno must follow Nevada law, which comes with local rules and challenges. Nevada’s modified comparative negligence rule restricts recovery to those who are less than 51 percent at fault. Strong evidence and a clear understanding of the facts can directly affect how much compensation you can seek.

Many injury claims in Reno involve crowded roads, seasonal weather, or recreational spaces. Washoe County’s Second Judicial District Court often hears these matters, so understanding the local court’s preferences helps move your case along smoothly. Nevada generally allows two years from the date of injury to file a claim, so prompt attention to timelines matters. Many cases involve accidents along I-580, near Lake Tahoe, or in suburban neighborhoods, each bringing different legal considerations.

Our team keeps up with changing laws and court practices in Nevada to guide clients through every stage and help ensure a fair assessment of your claim under local rules.

Residents of the Reno area commonly suffer injuries from auto accidents, especially given the city's location as a travel route and the convergence of multiple major highways. Injuries range from soft tissue trauma to more severe conditions following these incidents.

Recreational hotspots near Lake Tahoe, Peavine Mountain, and the Sierra Nevada lead to injuries connected with sports, biking, hiking, and winter weather. Local hospitals and urgent care centers treat fractures, sprains, and head injuries connected to these activities. Work-related injuries also occur, especially in construction or entertainment settings. Our team addresses the unique risks and legal issues in the Reno region to guide clients toward fair solutions.

Outdoor activities and community events can create injury risks as well, including slips, falls, and water-related accidents. Understanding the types of injuries that occur most frequently in this part of Nevada helps our firm stay responsive to the needs of clients and the realities of life here.

Related Reading:

• Assessing Your Risk In Personal Injury Litigation
• Dissecting the History of the Statute of Limitations in Personal Injury Cases in Nevada