How to File a Claim Against an Unlicensed Driver After a Car Accident

A car crash can be a life-altering event resulting in personal injury, damage to your vehicle, and considerable expenses. If you are involved in a car accident due to another driver’s negligence, you can typically recover compensation by filing a claim with their insurance company if you can show their actions caused the accident and your injuries.

However, filing a claim against an unlicensed driver in Alabama can complicate this process. Understanding the complexities involved and following the proper steps is crucial to protect your rights and secure compensation.

What Does “Unlicensed” Mean?

In Alabama, a license is required to drive a car on public roads. According to the Alabama Code (32-6-19), a person is considered unlicensed if:

• They are driving on public roads without having been issued a valid driver’s license issued by Alabama or another state.
• Their driver’s license has been denied, canceled, revoked, or suspended.

What Types of Drivers Are Unlicensed?

Although many individuals in the United States choose to drive without a valid driver’s license, many common patterns and profiles exist. The most common types of unlicensed drivers include:

• Teenage drivers who haven’t yet obtained their license
• Individuals who have forgotten to renew their license, which is mandatory every four years
• Individuals who have had their license suspended due to a DUI conviction

Essential Steps to Follow When Filing a Claim Against an Unlicensed Driver

After a crash in Alabama, you can file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance asking for a settlement for your injuries. While unlicensed drivers can obtain insurance, it can be difficult, which makes them more likely to be uninsured.  If you’re in a crash with an unlicensed driver, you can take the following steps to protect your rights and seek compensation:

• Gather as much information as possible on the unlicensed driver, including their name, contact information, license plate number, and vehicle make and model.

• Collect evidence of the crash site, such as your accident’s date, time, and location. Take photographs of the scene, your vehicle’s damage, and any injuries you sustained. Speak with potential witnesses and get their contact information so your attorney can reach out to get a witness statement.

• Call 911 and request law enforcement to the scene. Provide information regarding the accident and the unlicensed driver, and be as detailed as possible.

• Request a copy of the police report. If law enforcement determines the other driver was unlicensed, the police report will mention their license status. This can strengthen your claim by showing the unlicensed driver acted negligently. The police will also determine if the unlicensed driver has insurance, which can help your attorney decide how best to pursue a settlement for your damages.

• Contact your insurance company once you know the other driver’s license status. Tell them you were involved in a crash with an unlicensed driver and provide as much information about the accident as you can. Alabama requires insurers to offer uninsured motorists coverage; if you have UM insurance, you can seek compensation under your policy.

• Contact a team of skilled Alabama car accident lawyers. They will provide qualified legal representation, advocate for your rights, and help you navigate the complexities of filing a claim against an unlicensed driver.

Special Considerations When Filing a Claim Against an Unlicensed Driver

Filing a compensation claim against an unlicensed driver can present many additional challenges, such as building your case and gathering evidence. The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers can help you navigate these obstacles to secure damages. Our attorneys assess liability, gather evidence, and identify potential avenues for compensation.

For example, if the unlicensed driver does not carry liability insurance, our attorneys can review your auto insurance policy to determine if you have UM coverage and help you file a claim. We can also assess the likelihood of receiving a settlement from the unlicensed driver in a personal injury lawsuit. If the unlicensed person has personal assets, we can help you seek compensation in Alabama’s civil court system.

How The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers Can Help You in a Car Accident

Navigating the legal proceedings after a car accident with an unlicensed driver can be complex. Seek legal representation from the car accident attorneys at The Vance Law Firm Injury Lawyers. Schedule a free consultation with us today to learn your compensation options.