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Getting into a car accident is stressful enough, but what happens when the at-fault driver shouldn’t have been on the road to begin with? In California, tens of thousands of drivers operate vehicles with suspended licenses each year, posing a serious risk to others on the road. In fact, according to a Los Angeles Times report, more than 900,000 Californians had their licenses suspended in a single year for reasons ranging from unpaid fines to DUI convictions. (source)
If you’ve been hit by a driver with a suspended license, it’s important to know your rights and what steps to take next. At State Law Firm, our team of driven, up-and-coming litigators is committed to helping victims of serious accidents navigate complex legal situations like this one. In this article, we’ll walk you through what it means when someone drives with a suspended license, how insurance factors in, and what your options are for pursuing compensation. Whether you’re trying to understand liability or planning your next move, consider this your go-to guide for protecting yourself after an accident involving a suspended-license driver in California.
Understanding Suspended Licenses: What It Means for Drivers
A suspended license means a driver’s legal privilege to operate a motor vehicle has been temporarily withdrawn. In California, suspensions can be either administrative (such as failing to pay fines or not appearing in court) or criminal (including DUI convictions or reckless driving). According to the California Vehicle Code Section 14601, knowingly driving with a suspended license is a criminal offense, and can drastically complicate matters when an accident occurs.
Common reasons for license suspension in California include:
- DUI or drug-related driving offenses
- Failing to appear in court or pay traffic fines
- Excessive points on a driving record
- Lack of car insurance
- Medical conditions that impair safe driving
Pro Tip: If you’re involved in an accident, always ask for the other driver’s license and insurance. If they hesitate or provide expired documents, note them in your records or police report. This may signal a suspension or lack of insurance coverage.
Your Rights and Options After an Accident with a Suspended License Driver
Being hit by someone who shouldn’t be driving can feel infuriating, but it doesn’t leave you powerless. In California, even if the other driver has a suspended license, you can still pursue a personal injury claim if they caused the accident.
Here’s what you’re entitled to explore:
- Filing a personal injury claim for medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering
- Holding the driver liable, regardless of their license status
- Exploring uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage through your insurance if you lack proper coverage
Working with an experienced Sherman Oaks car accident attorney can make a difference in identifying every possible avenue of recovery, especially when dealing with complicated liability questions or uncooperative drivers.
The Role of Insurance: How Coverage Works in These Situations
Even if the at-fault driver had a suspended license, they may still have active car insurance, though this isn’t always the case. It’s common for insurers to deny claims once they discover the driver shouldn’t have been behind the wheel, which is where things can get tricky.
Key insurance considerations:
- Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: If the driver is uninsured, your UM coverage may help cover medical expenses and property damage.
- Liability Coverage: Some drivers with suspended licenses may still carry liability insurance through family members or vehicle owners.
- Insurance Disputes: If the other party’s insurer refuses to pay due to a suspended license, you may need legal representation to fight for fair compensation.
Pro Tip: Check your auto policy now—if you don’t have UM/UIM coverage, consider adding it. It’s a relatively low-cost option that can protect you in situations like this.
Pursuing Compensation: Steps to Take After the Accident
After any car accident, time is of the essence—but especially when dealing with a suspended-license driver. Preserving evidence and documenting your injuries can strengthen your claim and increase your chances of a favorable outcome.
Steps to take immediately after the crash:
- Call the police and ensure a report is filed noting the license issue
- Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and license plate.
- Seek medical attention right away, even if injuries seem minor.
- Exchange information and gather witness contact details
- Speak to a personal injury attorney before accepting any insurance settlement.
At State Law Firm, we’ve seen how quickly the facts of a crash can be contested, especially when the other driver knows they were breaking the law. Let us help you build the strongest case possible.
Legal Consequences for Drivers with Suspended Licenses in California
Driving on a suspended license isn’t just a minor violation—it’s a misdemeanor offense under California law. If a driver causes an accident while knowingly driving with a suspended license, they may face both civil and criminal consequences.
Potential consequences include:
- Jail time and fines under California Vehicle Code §§ 14601–14601.5
- Increased penalties if the suspension was DUI-related
- Further suspension or revocation of their driving privileges
- Civil liability for any injuries or damages caused
In personal injury cases, a suspended license can bolster your claim by highlighting the other driver’s negligence or recklessness, which strengthens your position in both insurance negotiations and potential lawsuits.
Final Thoughts
Accidents are hard enough. But when the driver responsible shouldn’t have been on the road at all, the aftermath can feel even more frustrating. Fortunately, you have rights and legal options. At State Law Firm, our attorneys are dedicated to helping everyday Californians fight back when they’re hurt due to someone else’s poor decisions. If you or someone you care about has been hit by a driver with a suspended license, don’t wait.
We’re ready when you are.
