It is against state law to operate a motor vehicle without a valid driver’s license. The reality is, however, that you could encounter an unlicensed driver at any time in Nevada. If you get into a car accident and discover that the other driver does not have a license, or has a license that is expired, suspended or revoked, you should take certain steps to protect your rights.
Male Motorist Injured In Car Crash With Airbag Deployed
Seek Medical Attention
After any car accident, your health and safety are top priority. Pull over in a safe location as close to the accident scene as possible. Check yourself for injuries, bearing in mind that your adrenaline from the crash may be masking pain. If you or anyone else in the accident has been injured, request emergency medical services by calling 911. Otherwise, go to a hospital right away for prompt injury diagnosis and treatment.
Call the Police to Report the Car Accident
Nevada law requires drivers to report any motor vehicle accident that involves injuries, death or physical damage to property. While this describes almost every car accident, even if the collision appears minor, you should contact the police if the other driver is unlicensed. The driver could receive a citation for unlawfully driving without a valid license. This will be noted in the police accident report and can be used to support your insurance claim.
Get the Unlicensed Driver’s Information
While you wait for the police to arrive, exchange information with the other driver. Get his or her full name, address and insurance information. If the driver does not have insurance or cannot produce a valid driver’s license when asked, notify the police. The driver may have a suspended or revoked license for a previous offense, such as drunk driving, or may not be old enough to drive. This information should be documented on the police report. Give the police your side of the story for the record and write down your report number before you leave.
Take Pictures
Document the car accident as much as possible. This includes taking photographs of the scene of the crash to record the location, the position of both vehicles, traffic signs or signals, road and weather conditions, and property damage. If you notice any traffic or surveillance cameras in the area, point them out to law enforcement so that they can collect footage.
Contact Your Car Insurance Company
Call your car insurance provider to report the car accident. Nevada is a fault-based insurance state, meaning you will file a claim against the other driver if he or she caused the crash. However, an unlicensed driver may also be uninsured or underinsured.
In this case, your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage can help pay for your medical bills and property repairs. Tell your insurance company that the other driver was driving without a valid license. Do not admit to fault for the car accident in any way.
Cooperate With Law Enforcement
The police may proceed with a full investigation into the unlicensed driver. If you are contacted about the case, cooperate with their investigation by providing an accurate account of the car accident. The driver may face criminal charges for driving without a license in some circumstances. Any related charges or convictions could potentially serve as evidence for your car accident case.
Consult With an Attorney
Prepare to encounter challenges in terms of insurance coverage and recovering compensation after a car accident with an unlicensed driver. Consult with an experienced car accident attorney in Las Vegas for assistance if an insurance company fails to offer a reasonable settlement or rejects your claim. A lawyer can help you seek justice and fair compensation from all available outlets. Call Panish | Shea | Ravipudi LLP at (702) 560-5520 for a free car accident case review.