Car Crash Without License? What You Need to Know

If you've been involved in a car accident without a license, don't panic. Just because you didn't have a valid driver's license doesn't mean you're automatically to blame. Even though you may face other charges, you still have the right to hold the at-fault driver accountable.

So, what happens if you get into an accident without a license? It depends. Was your license suspended, were you driving on an expired one, or have you never technically even had one? In this article, we'll explore what you need to know about your rights and what to expect if you're involved in a car accident without a license.

Can You Sue If You Don't Have a License?

The short answer? Yes. In California, your ability to file a personal injury claim depends on who was at fault, not whether you had a valid license. If the other driver caused the accident, you may be able to pursue compensation, even if you were driving without a license. Not every car accident without a license leads to the same outcome, so let's go over a few different scenarios.

Never Had a License

This is one of the most serious situations. Driving without ever being licensed shows you weren't legally permitted to operate a vehicle. If you're in a car crash without a license, you could be arrested—even if the other driver was at fault. Insurance may deny coverage entirely, but you might be able to file a claim if the accident wasn't your fault.

Expired License

Driving with an expired license is illegal, which means you might get a ticket. The good news? Your insurance policy might still cover you. And yes, you have the right to sue the responsible party.

Suspended License

If your license was suspended, you could face criminal charges. While you can still sue if someone else caused the accident, your past driving record will come under scrutiny.

You Have an Out-of-State or Foreign License

If you've recently moved to California and still have a valid license from another state or country, you're probably okay, as long as you're not violating California's residency laws. Your insurance coverage usually still applies, and you can pursue a claim if the other driver is at fault.

Will Insurance Cover Unlicensed Driver?

Now, the million-dollar question—does insurance cover unlicensed drivers? This is where things can get a bit messy. In most cases, insurance companies will deny coverage if the driver didn't have a valid license—especially if they weren't listed on the policy. However, if another party caused the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation from their insurance.

You may face fines, license suspension, or even misdemeanor charges, but licensed or not, you need to know your rights. With mounting medical bills, lost income, and property damage, the total costs of a car accident in California can add up quickly.

If you've been involved in a car accident without a license, consult with an experienced attorney can help you navigate the legal landscape and fight for the compensation you're owed. Personal injury laws can be complicated—especially when you're dealing with a car accident without a license.

With strict deadlines to meet, confusing paperwork requirements, and state-specific laws to abide by, it’s easy to overlook certain details. Trying to make sense of it all on your own can lead to costly mistakes. Most people wouldn’t even know where to begin—and that’s exactly why having a legal professional on your side makes all the difference.

Legal Help for Car Accident Without Driver License

If you need legal advice about an accident in North Hollywood or Burbank, contact Yepremyan Law Firm to speak with a personal injury attorney in North Hollywood. With 24/7 support, our firm offers free consultations to help victims receive the guidance they need.

As an established law firm in North Hollywood, we proudly represent clients throughout Southern California. Schedule your appointment today with a car accident lawyer in North Hollywood or request to speak with a personal injury lawyer in Burbank.

Yepremyan Law works on a contingency basis for all personal injury matters. No recovery, no fee.