Vehicle Accidents While on Duty: Workers’ Comp Rights for Nevada Law Enforcement

Law enforcement officers in Nevada spend a significant portion of their shifts behind the wheel. Whether responding to emergencies, patrolling assigned areas, transporting detainees, or assisting other agencies, vehicle operation is a core part of the job. Unfortunately, this also places officers at risk of serious injuries from on-duty vehicle accidents.

If you are a Nevada law enforcement officer injured in a vehicle accident while working, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Understanding how these claims work — and what steps to take — can help protect your health, your income, and your career.

Why Vehicle Accidents Are a Serious Risk for Law Enforcement

Police vehicles are often operated under challenging conditions, including high speeds, poor visibility, long shifts, and unpredictable environments. Officers may be injured while:

• Responding to emergency calls
• Engaging in pursuits
• Assisting at accident scenes
• Patrolling highways or rural roads
• Driving in heavy traffic or adverse weather
• Operating marked or unmarked vehicles

Even with advanced training, accidents can occur due to the actions of other drivers, road hazards, or fatigue from extended shifts.

Common Injuries From On-Duty Vehicle Accidents

Vehicle accidents can cause injuries ranging from mild to catastrophic. Common injuries reported by law enforcement officers include:

• Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
• Neck and back injuries, including herniated discs
• Shoulder, knee, and hip injuries
• Broken bones
• Soft-tissue injuries and whiplash
• Internal injuries
• Chronic pain conditions

Some injuries may not fully present symptoms until days or weeks after the accident, which makes early reporting especially important.

Are On-Duty Vehicle Accidents Covered by Nevada Workers’ Comp?

In most cases, yes. Nevada workers’ compensation generally covers injuries that occur while an officer is performing job-related duties, regardless of who caused the accident.

Workers’ compensation coverage may apply whether:

• The accident involved another vehicle
• The officer was driving a department vehicle
• The officer was struck while outside the vehicle
• The crash occurred during routine patrol or emergency response

Fault is not a determining factor in workers’ compensation claims. However, certain circumstances — such as delayed reporting or disputes over whether the officer was acting within the scope of employment — can complicate a claim.

Steps to Take After a Vehicle Accident While on Duty

1. Report the Injury Promptly: Nevada law requires injured workers to notify their employer in writing within 7 days of the injury. This applies even if injuries initially seem minor.
2. Seek Medical Treatment: Follow department protocols for medical care and ensure providers know the injury occurred while on duty.
3. Ensure a C-4 Form Is Filed: The treating physician must complete a C-4 form to officially start the workers’ compensation process.
4. Document Symptoms and Limitations: Keep records of pain, restricted movement, missed work, and any changes in job duties.
5. Consider Legal Guidance: Vehicle-related injury claims can involve multiple layers of review, especially when serious injuries or long-term work restrictions are involved. Legal guidance can help protect your claim and ensure proper benefits.

Workers’ Compensation Benefits Available to Injured Officers

Approved workers’ comp claims may provide access to:

• Full medical treatment related to the injury
• Temporary disability benefits for missed work
• Permanent disability benefits for lasting impairments
• Vocational rehabilitation if returning to full duty is not possible
• Mileage reimbursement for medical appointments

Because vehicle accidents often result in extended recovery periods, ensuring benefits are calculated correctly is critical.

Protecting Your Rights After an On-Duty Vehicle Accident

A vehicle accident can impact more than just your immediate health — it can affect your ability to perform law enforcement duties long-term. Nevada law provides protections for injured officers, but the system can be complex and unforgiving of mistakes.

If you’re a law enforcement officer navigating a workplace injury, don’t wait to seek support. Workers’ compensation is your right, and expert guidance can make all the difference. Learn more about your options with Jay Short, Attorney at Law. For personalized assistance, contact us or call 775-786-2006 today to ensure your claim is handled with care and precision.

By understanding and utilizing workers’ comp benefits, law enforcement professionals can focus on what matters most: their recovery and continued service to their communities.