Being injured in an accident caused by a driver with a suspended license can create significant legal and financial complications. In Virginia, such drivers often face severe penalties, and understanding your rights is essential if you are injured under these circumstances.
Additional criminal consequences for the at-fault driver
In Virginia, driving with a suspended license is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the driver causes an accident, especially one involving injuries, their penalties can increase. This may include additional charges for reckless driving or other traffic violations. These legal actions against the at-fault driver can impact your case as you seek compensation for your injuries.
Financial challenges in recovering compensation
Drivers with suspended licenses often lack proper insurance coverage. In Virginia, liability insurance is a legal requirement, but a suspended license might render the policy invalid. If the at-fault driver’s insurance is void, you may need to rely on your uninsured motorist coverage or explore legal options to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses.
Impact on your claim
An accident involving a suspended license can complicate the claims process. Courts may view the at-fault driver’s actions as particularly negligent, which could support your case. However, the absence of valid insurance coverage might delay the resolution of your claim or require pursuing compensation directly from the driver.
Protecting your rights
Your injury claim can involve multiple steps, including gathering evidence of the accident, proving the extent of your injuries, and identifying all potential sources of compensation.
If you are injured by a driver with a suspended license, understanding your legal options can help you recover financially and hold the responsible party accountable.