Miami Personal Injury Lawyer Blog
All drivers in Florida are required to be licensed. Unfortunately, not all motorists you encounter on the road adhere to the law and may not have a valid driver’s license in place. This can create serious problems. Unlicensed drivers lack insurance and are generally more likely to engage in dangerous driving behaviors that make car accidents happen. When these impact you or a loved one, it is important to be aware of how you can hold them accountable.
The Risks Unlicensed Drivers Pose on Fort Myers Roads
Unlicensed drivers pose a hazard to themselves and others. According to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), they are responsible for more than 20% of all car accidents that occur each year. Unfortunately, as Florida has one of the highest rates of unlicensed motorists, residents of Miami are at a greater risk of encountering an unlicensed driver on the road. Among the common reasons people drive without a license are:
- They lost their license due to DUIs and other traffic violations;
- They have an extensive history of motor vehicle accidents;
- They lack the funds to maintain the required insurance;
- They are wanted by police and allowed their license to lapse;
- Immigration issues prevent them from getting a driver’s license.
Holding Unlicensed Drivers Accountable
When car accidents involving unlicensed drivers happen, insurance is not available to cover the costs. However, under the Florida Statutes, you can hold unlicensed drivers accountable for their negligent actions through a personal injury lawsuit.
Just because a driver lacks an official license, they are still legally liable when their actions result in serious personal injuries to others. Compensation available through a lawsuit includes:
- Coverage of current medical expenses and any future treatment costs you are likely to require;
- Reimbursement for lost wages and future losses in income due to ongoing disabilities;
- Compensation for the pain and suffering you endured due to your car accident injuries;
- Punitive damages, which are an additional amount the judge may order to punish the at-fault driver for particularly willful and negligent behavior.
Even if the unlicensed driver tries to avoid paying, the judgment can be legally enforced. Options available include wage garnishment, liens on their home, car, or other property, and seizure of funds in bank accounts and against certain types of government benefits.
Get Our Miami Car Accident Attorneys on Your Side
At Gerson & Schwartz, we provide the aggressive legal representation needed to hold unlicensed drivers accountable. To discuss the options in your case, call or contact our Miami car accident attorneys and request a consultation today.
