The Consequences of Driving Without a License

Legal Assistance for Victims Injured by Unlicensed Drivers throughout Rhode Island and Massachusetts

In addition to facing criminal charges, drivers who are on the road without a valid license can also face civil liability if they cause an accident. Trucking companies and other businesses that hire unlicensed drivers can also face liability for their drivers’ negligence. As an accident victim, if you have been injured by an unlicensed driver, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your losses. However, these cases can present unique challenges, so to make sure you have the best chance at recovering maximum compensation, you should speak with an auto accident attorney right away.

Unlicensed Drivers’ Liability for Vehicle Collisions

In addition to Rhode Island and Massachusetts statutory requirements that all drivers have a valid license in order to operate a motor vehicle, drivers also owe a civil duty of reasonable care to others on the road. When a driver’s actions violate that duty of care he or she can be held liable for injuries caused by any negligent actions. Driving without a license, or with a suspended or revoked license, is certainly one important factor that could lead to a determination that a driver breached his or her duty of care and was therefore negligent in causing an accident.

Unlicensed Drivers’ Employers’ Liability for Car Accidents

Any time that a driver causes an accident while driving on the job, the victim may have a cause of action against the employer. However, if the employee-driver was operating without a license, car accident victims may have an additional cause of action against the at fault driver’s employer. Employers have a duty to ensure that their employee drivers are properly trained and licensed. If a truck driver, delivery driver, or other person who, while in the scope of employment, causes an accident and was driving without a valid license, or with a suspended or revoked license, evidence that the employee-driver was unlicensed could provide an additional cause of action against the employer for breach of duty.

Unlicensed Drivers’ Dangerous Behavior

Not surprisingly unlicensed drivers are also more likely to engage in dangerous behavior while driving. Unlicensed drivers are more likely to commit hit and run accidents, probably for fear that the police will cite them for an invalid license.  The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety’s “Unlicensed to Kill” Study determined that between 2007 to 2009, unlicensed drivers were 8.8 times more likely to leave the scene of an accident as compared to properly licensed drivers.  Unlicensed drivers were also twice as likely to have a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 or greater as compared to legally licensed drivers.

Have You Been Injured in a Car Accident? Contact the Bottaro Law Firm, LLC Today

With eleven office locations in Rhode Island, The Bottaro Law Firm, LLC regularly represents auto accident victims throughout the state. If you have been injured by an unlicensed driver, we can help you receive the compensation you deserve. To speak with an attorney about your case and take advantage of our No Fee Guarantee, please schedule a free consultation online or call (866) 452-6155 today.