Hit by unlicensed driver?

Texas ranks 15th among all states for unlicensed drivers involved in fatal crashes, according to a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. The study found that up to 20% of all drivers in America involved in fatal crashes do not hold a valid driver’s license. Predominantly these are drivers under suspension because of drunk or reckless drivers, but the group also includes drivers who never had a license, and drivers whose license status is unknown (i.e. out-of-country drivers). About 28% of the entire group had their license suspended or revoked three or more times for repeated offences.

A special Commercial Driver License (CDL) is required for drivers of semi-trucks, school buses, and other larger vehicles. Special skill and knowledge is usually required to operate big rigs, and each state is required to meet or exceed all federal standards when testing drivers. However not every truck driver has a CDL, even though they have been required since April 1, 1992. And not all owners check their drivers for a valid CDL license. In Fort Worth, an unlicensed truck driver struck and killed a 4-year old boy riding his bike in January 2004, showing what kind of damage dangerous drivers and negligent companies can cause to innocent victims.

There are ways to prevent drivers from getting back on the road after a suspended license including impounding their vehicle and requiring a mandatory Breathalyzer or card key system installed. And stiffer fines for companies who do not check that their drivers are properly licensed would help reduce the number of accidents. But these methods will not help you if you have already been injured by an unlicensed driver.

Unfortunately many unlicensed drivers are also uninsured, so there may not be a direct way to get compensation for your injuries. However you may be able to reach a settlement with the owner of the vehicle, especially in cases when the driver was operating a company vehicle at the time of the accident. This is sometimes difficult because insurance companies can claim that they do not cover vehicles used illegally or by unlicensed drivers. But what they claim and what they can support in court is often two different things.

That’s why you need Jim S. Adler & Associates working on your side. Our team of Personal Injury lawyers has experience with all kinds of traffic accidents including accidents involving unlicensed drivers. We can ensure that your rights are protected, and that you will get the compensation that you need to cover your medical bills, lost time from work, and pain and suffering.

Don’t let an unlicensed driver take away your freedom. Contact a personal injury lawyer at Jim S. Adler & Associates right now, and secure the legal help you need to win your case.

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