According to the terms of the law, no person should operate a motor vehicle without a valid drivers' license. However, for a variety of reasons, people sometimes find themselves behind the wheel without this required credential. While an already poor situation, when the person driving the vehicle is involved in an accident in which they are not at fault, the matter can become even more complex.
Truth is Critical
If your license is revoked, suspended, or expired, go ahead and tell the truth right away. The truth will undoubtedly come out at some point during the investigation process anyway, if not right away. Provided the police do not show up on the scene, you will be required to file an accident report with the police department before you can file a claim.
As soon as the police process your information, the fact that you do not have a license will become available and will be included in the accident report. Lying about the matter will only make the situation worse and possibly increase the level of penalty both in terms of your case and the legal repercussions of driving without a license.
Driving Laws and Motor Vehicle Accidents
Again, while this is not an ideal scenario, it is not the end of the world. Whatever laws are in place regarding operating a vehicle without a license, it has little to do with the accident claim. If another driver's negligent actions lead to injury or property loss on your part, you have the right to file a claim.
Understand that an insurance company cannot legally deny a claim solely because the victim was not operating their car legally. But having an attorney will be helpful as you may have some help when facing some legal challenges.
Insurance Company Strategies
Although an insurance company cannot outright deny a claim if you are hit by another driver and you do not have a license, it does not mean that they will provide a settlement without a fight.
This statement is particularly true when the victim never had a valid license or had their license was suspended due to negligent driving habits in the past. In these scenarios, an insurance company may try to argue that either the driver's lack of experience or poor driving habits contributed to the accident, and therefore, they do not deserve full compensation.
Due to the complexity of this situation, it is very important that you contact an attorney for assistance. So, make sure you reach out as soon as possible. Contact a local car accident lawyer to learn more.
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