Are you covered by insurance if you’re in a car accident? Almost 45% of car owners in the United States have comprehensive insurance policies. Car accidents are already stressful, but what happens when the at-fault driver has no license? This adds a layer of complexity to an already challenging situation. For this reason, knowing what to do when an auto accident occurs is vital.
For instance, who’s responsible if you’re involved in an accident with a no-license driver? This is when a car accident lawyer is worth their weight in gold. This article covers who’s at fault, what to do, and the benefits you gain from hiring a car accident lawyer. Keep reading to gain expert knowledge.
Who’s At Fault?
In Florida, if you are involved in an accident with a driver who does not have a valid license, the responsibility for the accident and its consequences can vary based on several factors.
Firstly, the driver without a permit may be responsible for the accident. This is because operating a vehicle without a valid license is illegal and demonstrates. It also shows a lack of adherence to traffic laws.
However, the vehicle owner may also be held accountable. This is especially true if they knowingly allow an unlicensed individual to drive their vehicle.
Additionally, what if the driver without a license operated a vehicle owned by their employer at the time of the accident? Then, the employer could be held liable under certain circumstances.
It’s important to note that each accident involving an unlicensed driver is unique. The specific details of the situation will ultimately determine the allocation of responsibility.
What to Do When Involved in a Car Accident
If you are involved in a car accident with an unlicensed driver, you must remain calm and follow the standard procedures for handling a car accident. This includes:
Step 1: Ensure Safety
Begin by assessing for any injuries and relocating to a secure area. If your vehicle can be moved to a safer spot, such as the roadside, it’s advisable to do so.
Step 2: Contact Authorities
Whenever there is an accident, it must be reported to the authorities. Thus, the next step is to call the police to report the accident. You can also use this call to request medical help if needed.
Step 3: Exchange Information
Next, you should swap information with the other party in the accident. Collect the unlicensed driver’s personal information, the vehicle owner’s information if it varies, and any available insurance details. This is a crucial step that must not be skipped.
Step 4: Gather Evidence
You have a much stronger compensation case if you can prove your argument. To help with this, take photos of the accident scene. Include the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible auto accident damages.
Step 5: Seek Legal Advice
Finally, when all the previous steps are complete, it’s time to contact a car accident lawyer to understand your rights and options. They will help you build a solid case and assist you through court proceedings.
The Benefits of Hiring a Car Accident Lawyer
Hiring a car accident lawyer can provide numerous benefits, especially in cases involving unlicensed drivers. Some of these benefits include:
Legal Expertise
A lawyer specializing in car accidents understands the complexities of such cases. For this reason, they can provide valuable legal guidance. This can help you win your case if it goes to court.
Insurance Negotiation
Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. However, you can make life easier by hiring a lawyer to handle negotiations on your behalf. Again, this can help ensure fair compensation.
Maximized Compensation
If you’re injured in a car accident, paying for medical bills can get expensive. A skilled lawyer can help maximize your compensation for damages, injuries, and other losses from the accident.
Protection of Rights
Your lawyer will work to protect your rights and ensure that you are not wrongly held responsible for the accident or its consequences. This can be extremely helpful if your case goes to court.
Peace of Mind
By enlisting the help of a lawyer, you can focus on recovery and moving forward. This is because you can rest assured knowing that your legal matters are in capable hands.
Tips to Avoid Car Accidents
Driving defensively is a great way to minimize your chances of being involved in a car accident. Defensive driving also involves staying vigilant, obeying traffic laws, and being prepared to react to unexpected situations.
Remember, road safety is a shared responsibility.
This means your actions can make a difference in preventing accidents and keeping our roads safer for everyone. Here are some other defensive driving tips:
- Maintain Distance: Always keep a safe distance (2 seconds) from the vehicle in front of you
- Stay Alert: Avoid distractions such as texting, eating, or adjusting the radio while driving
- Obey Speed Limits: Adhere to speed limits and adjust speed based on road conditions, etc.
- Use Turn Signals: Signal your intentions clearly to inform other drivers of your movements
- Regular Maintenance: Ensure your vehicle is regularly serviced and in good working condition
- Avoid Fatigue: If feeling tired, take a break so you don’t impair reaction times and decision-making
- Be Courteous: Practice patience and avoid aggressive or reckless behaviors
- Weather Awareness: Adjust your driving to suit weather conditions, such as rain, snow, or fog
- Limit Impairment: Never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Right-of-Way Rules: Understand and respect right-of-way rules to avoid conflicts with other road users
Get Peace of Mind Today
By following the appropriate steps after the accident and seeking the expertise of a car accident lawyer, you can protect your rights and pursue fair compensation for any damages or injuries incurred. Remember that each case is different, so seeking personalized legal advice to address your specific circumstances is crucial.
Don’t navigate the legal complexities alone if you’ve been involved in a car accident with a no-license driver. At RHINO Lawyers, we’re passionate about helping people and changing lives.
Our mission is to form lasting partnerships with every client we serve. Contact us today to receive the dedicated legal support you deserve.
CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY
In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.
Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.RHINO.77.
