Everything You Need to Know About the Legal Penalties for Driving Without a License in Texas
Anytime you fall victim to a car or truck accident, the effects can be devastating. The emotional distress, physical injuries, property damage, and financial burden take a toll.
When you’re in a car accident involving an unlicensed driver, the stress levels skyrocket as you grapple with the additional complications of dealing with an unlicensed and possibly uninsured party.
At Angel Reyes & Associates, we understand that accidents involving unlicensed drivers can be particularly complex.
Our team of compassionate car accident lawyers is here to help you understand your rights and legal options in these tricky situations – empowering you to protect your interests and recover the maximum compensation.
What is the Punishment for Driving Without a License in Texas?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 26% of people involved in fatal car crashes in Texas are unlicensed drivers. This staggering statistic highlights the serious risks posed by unlicensed drivers on our roads.
If you’ve been caught driving without a license in Texas, you may be facing serious penalties.
Your vehicle may be impounded and you can receive a fine of around $1,000. If you’re determined to be at fault, you can owe upwards of $4,000 in fines. In extreme cases, such as repeat offenses or a car accident resulting in death or severe injuries, you can face jail time of up to one year.
Determining Liability in Unlicensed Driver Accidents
Under Texas law, being an unlicensed driver does not automatically determine fault in a car accident situation.
Having a valid license doesn’t automatically protect you from liability in a Texas car accident. Even if the other driver is unlicensed, liability still depends on who caused the car accident. This means that an unlicensed driver can still recover damages if they aren’t at fault.
Each case is evaluated based on the specific details of the car accident. That is why it is so important to document as much information at the scene as possible.
Common Scenarios for Accidents Involving an Unlicensed Driver
Unlicensed drivers in Texas typically fall into several categories:
- Teenagers who have not yet gotten their proper licensing
- Seniors with expired licenses
- Foreign nationals without U.S. licenses
- Drivers with revoked licenses
- Individuals with suspended licenses due to violations
Before getting behind the wheel of a car, it is best to ensure you are properly licensed to avoid any legal issues.
Steps to Take After a Car Accident in Texas with an Unlicensed Driver
If you’ve been the unfortunate victim of a car accident involving an unlicensed driver, you have a right to seek compensation.
After your car accident, take the following steps to start building your case:
- Assess yourself and others for injuries
- Seek prompt medical attention
- Call the police immediately
- Document everything at the scene, including driver paths, vehicle information, etc.
- Gather witness information/statements
- Take detailed photos of all damage
- Contact an experienced car accident attorney
Will Insurance Cover an Unlicensed Driver?
Unfortunately, many unlicensed drivers also lack adequate car insurance, which can complicate your ability to recover damages after a car accident.
Typically, car insurance companies cover damages caused by their policyholders, regardless if they are an unlicensed driver. Things get more complicated when the at-fault party doesn’t have any car insurance coverage due to not having a proper license.
However, you still have options to file with your own insurance or pursue the vehicle owner’s insurance.
Additionally, if you have uninsured motorist coverage, you may be covered under your own policy.
Your Rights and Options for Accidents Involving an Unlicensed Driver
Even when you’re in a car accident involving an unlicensed driver, you have rights. A skilled personal injury lawyer will help you understand all available options for recovering compensation, including:
- Insurance claims
- Personal injury lawsuits
- Uninsured motorist claims
- Claims against vehicle owners
You have a right to recover any property damages incurred and medical bills resulting from the unlicensed driver accident, even if the at-fault party has to pay you out-of-pocket.
How Angel Reyes & Associates Can Help with Your Unlicensed Driver Accident Claim
At Angel Reyes & Associates, we understand firsthand the complexities of accidents involving unlicensed drivers.
With over 30 years of experience handling auto accident cases in Texas, we have the ability and the passion to help you through any challenge you face. Our team of incredible car accident lawyers will be there for you every step of the way, providing 24/7 support as they fight your battle with an unlicensed driver.
The compassionate team of personal injury lawyers at Angel Reyes & Associates takes pride in helping our valued clients face the challenges of complex car accident insurance issues head-on, especially when it involves an unlicensed driver. Allow us to help you by removing the stress from the equation as we handle all communication and negotiation with your insurance company on your behalf. We will protect your rights through every step of the process and fight for maximum compensation.
Don’t wait, don’t hesitate.
Contact us today for a free consultation, or stop by one of our conveniently located Texas offices in Dallas, Fort-Worth, Houston, or Austin so we can discuss your case face-to-face.
Remember, you pay nothing unless we win your case, so there is no harm in scheduling a free consultation. You’re in good hands with Angel Reyes & Associates.
