People drive without licenses for many reasons. They might have lost their license because they broke the law, or perhaps they never passed a driving test. What unlicensed drivers share is a lack of official oversight, which means they may be less safe on the roads.
Additionally, a collision involving an unlicensed driver is often more complicated and frustrating, especially if the driver is also uninsured. After the crash, you might run into setbacks when determining fault, filing an insurance claim, and asserting your legal rights.
If you’ve been involved in a car accident with an unlicensed driver in Las Vegas, get experienced legal support on your side. Contact a Las Vegas car accident lawyer at Cameron Law today for a consultation and learn how to secure the compensation you deserve.
Why Do People Drive Without Licenses?
Driving without a valid driver’s license is illegal, yet people do it every day. These are some types of unlicensed drivers on Nevada roads.
Teenagers
A teenager might have not yet passed their exam to get a license or a permit. Or they might ignore any restrictions they are subject to. For example, a teenager with just a permit might break the law by driving without an adult in the car.
Undocumented Immigrants or Foreign Nationals
Although undocumented immigrants can obtain driver’s licenses in Nevada, many are unaware of this fact, or they might fear that applying for a license will draw attention to themselves and affect their ability to stay in the country.
Additionally, a documented immigrant or a tourist might drive with an expired international license or with a license that is not valid in the United States. This may be due to a lack of knowledge of the law or to carelessness.
Elderly Drivers
Age-related conditions like vision impairment or cognitive decline affect many older adults’ ability to drive safely. Nevada has stricter requirements for drivers over 65, including eye exams and more frequent renewal periods. However, some older adults continue driving even after their licenses have expired or been revoked.
Drivers with Suspended or Revoked Licenses
Some Nevadans have their licenses suspended or revoked due to serious offenses, such as driving under the influence. These people might continue driving illegally, disregarding the consequences they might face if they get caught.
Why Unlicensed Drivers Are a Serious Risk to Everyone on the Road
If they have never taken a course or passed a driving test, an unlicensed driver may lack the proper training and experience needed to handle challenging situations. They are more likely to cause serious injuries if they don’t know how to react properly to hazards.
Others may have had their licenses suspended or revoked because they were already deemed too reckless or dangerous to be on the roads. These unlicensed drivers pose a risk to everyone, including themselves.
Additionally, many unlicensed drivers are also uninsured, so victims without uninsured motorist coverage cannot recover their losses through the insurance system. Suing the unlicensed driver for compensation can also be challenging, especially if they do not have the financial means to pay for any losses.
Therefore, it can be very difficult for victims of accidents caused by unlicensed and uninsured drivers to get compensation for their damaged vehicles or medical bills.
What Happens If You Let Someone Without a License Borrow Your Car?
It’s not a good idea to let an unlicensed driver borrow your car, even if they’re someone you trust.
If that driver causes a crash, the situation can be very complicated. Your insurance company might deny coverage, leaving you personally responsible for any damage the driver caused. Your premiums could go up, and your insurance provider might even drop you as a customer.
How Fault Is Determined in Accidents with Unlicensed Drivers
When someone without a driver’s license gets into an accident, they are not automatically to blame. Instead, fault is determined based on how the accident happened.
For example, if the unlicensed driver was speeding or violated traffic laws, they would likely be held responsible for the crash. However, if you were to rear-end an unlicensed driver, you might be found primarily at fault.
Law enforcement officers typically make an initial assessment of fault when they arrive at the scene and document the accident in their report. This report plays a crucial role in insurance investigations, and adjusters will refer to it when determining liability.
However, other factors could come into play as adjusters determine whether the unlicensed driver was partially or wholly at fault. If the case escalates to a lawsuit, a court will ultimately decide who is responsible based on the evidence presented.
Determining Whether Your Insurance Will Cover the Car Accident
Insurance policies are complicated. Even if you think you’re covered for an incident, the fine print might state otherwise.
After an accident, start by carefully reviewing your policy to see if it includes any clauses related to unlicensed drivers. Next, contact your insurance provider and provide a detailed account of the incident, including the unlicensed status of the other driver.
It’s crucial to be honest during this conversation, as any misinformation could impact your car accident claim. Still, don’t volunteer any irrelevant information that could be misconstrued as you admitting fault.
If the at-fault driver had insurance coverage, their provider should pay for your losses. However, many unlicensed drivers don’t have insurance. In that case, you may be covered through your own uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is not required in Nevada, but it’s highly recommended.
When you file a claim, the insurer may conduct an investigation. You’ll be expected to provide any documentation you have, such as photos of the scene. If the insurer seems uncommunicative or uncooperative, consider talking to a lawyer. Your lawyer can discuss taking legal action against the at-fault driver or exploring other avenues for compensation.
What to Do Immediately After an Accident with an Unlicensed Driver
If you’re involved in an accident with an unlicensed driver, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your personal injury claim:
- Ensure safety: Check for injuries and call emergency services if necessary to make sure everyone is safe.
- Contact the police: Report the accident to the police immediately.
- Gather information: Collect the unlicensed driver’s name, contact details, and vehicle information.
- Take photos: Document the accident scene, damage to the vehicles, each vehicle’s license plate, and any visible injuries using your phone.
- Collect witness statements: Obtain the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- File a police report: Ensure an official police report is filed.
- Seek medical attention: Even if you don’t feel injured, get a medical evaluation; some injuries may not be immediately noticeable but can have long-term effects.
- Document everything: Keep a record of all details related to the accident, including medical visits, repair estimates, and communications with the unlicensed driver or their insurance company.
Taking these steps can help you build a solid foundation for your car accident case.
What Do I Do If an Unlicensed Driver Flees?
Sometimes, unlicensed drivers flee the scene of an accident for fear of further repercussions. If that happens, try to remember as much as you can about the fleeing vehicle, such as its make, model, color, and partial or full license plate number. Call 911 and report this information; if police are alerted quickly, they might be able to locate the driver.
Next, if you have uninsured motorist coverage, you should file a claim with your own insurance company. Your policy should kick in to cover your vehicle repairs and medical costs.
Unfortunately, many insurance companies hesitate to pay the full amount their customers deserve. That’s why it helps to consult with a personal injury attorney at Cameron Law. Our law firm can assist in gathering evidence to support your claim, or we can pursue other legal options if the hit-and-run driver is located.
Get Legal Help from Cameron Law After an Unlicensed Driver Accident
Car accident victims face not only physical and emotional challenges but also legal and financial difficulties. When the other driver is unlicensed or insured, the legal process becomes even more complicated.
Consult with a skilled car accident lawyer to understand your rights, explore your legal options, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Reach out to Cameron Law today and take the first step toward protecting your future.
