Being involved in a car accident can be a traumatic experience, especially when the other driver is unlicensed. Not only can the situation be dangerous and chaotic, but knowing what to do next can be confusing and overwhelming. An Albuquerque personal injury attorney explains what to do if you’re in an accident with an unlicensed driver, from the legal aspects to filing a personal injury claim.
Is It Legal to Drive Without License in New Mexico?
Driving without a valid license in the state of New Mexico is illegal. If you are caught driving without a valid license, you can be issued a citation and fined up to $300.
Additionally, if you are involved in an accident with someone who doesn’t have a valid license, they could be held liable for any resulting damages or personal injuries. You could file a civil lawsuit against them for negligence and seek financial compensation.
5 Steps to Take After an Accident with an Unlicensed Driver
- Take pictures of the damage to your car as well as the other car if possible. This will provide evidence in case you need to file a personal injury claim against the driver.
- Seek medical help. If you have sustained any injuries, you must seek medical attention and document any injuries that occurred as a result of the accident. You may be able to receive compensation for medical bills through a personal injury lawsuit.
- Gather all pertinent information from the unlicensed driver, such as name, address, and insurance information if applicable. It may be beneficial to also exchange contact information with any witnesses who were present at the time of the accident.
- Report the incident to local law enforcement. When filing a police report, be sure to give accurate details of what happened and who was involved in the accident.
- Contact an Albuquerque personal injury attorney to discuss the specifics of the case and the potential compensation you could get for the damages.
Who Will Pay For the Injuries?
In New Mexico, the answer depends on if the other driver has insurance coverage. If the other driver does not have insurance coverage or does not have enough coverage to cover your injuries, you may be able to use your own uninsured (UM) or underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage to cover your medical expenses and other damages. Generally, UM and UIM will cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Consult With a Personal Injury Attorney:
Hiring a car accident lawyer in Albuquerque NM can be beneficial in cases involving unlicensed drivers as they are familiar with the laws in your state and can give you expert advice about your rights and the best course of action. An experienced personal injury lawyer can assess your case and help you determine what type of compensation you may be eligible to receive.
Taking the right steps will help protect yourself and your rights. After seeking medical help, hire a personal injury law firm in Albuquerque as soon as possible. Their expertise and assistance can be of great help for you.