Operating a motor vehicle safely requires a certain level of knowledge and experience. Younger drivers or those without valid licenses are dangerous behind the wheel due to a lack of real-world experience driving. If you get involved in a car accident with an inexperienced or unlicensed driver, there are steps you need to take to protect your legal rights.
Report the Car Accident
Do not allow the other driver to convince you to resolve the matter privately, without involving the police or insurance companies. This can put you at significant financial risk. The driver may give you false contact information, for example, or may not have enough money to pay what you deserve out of pocket. Call the police right away to report the car accident.
Tell Your Side of the Story
When the police arrive at the scene of the crash, make sure you tell them your side of the story so it gets included in the police report. The other driver may attempt to blame you for the accident. Your version of events can help the police and an insurance company understand what caused the crash and prove that the inexperienced driver is at fault.
Obtain a Copy of Your Police Report
 A police report must be filed within 10 days of your car accident. Contact the police precinct in the county where the crash took place to request a copy of your report. The report can contain important information that you can use during your car insurance claim, such as documentation of a citation or penalty the other driver received for driving without a valid license.
Get Medical Care
Ensure your safety by getting medical care immediately. When you call the police to report the crash, request an ambulance if your injuries appear serious. Otherwise, go to the nearest hospital for a check-up as soon as possible. If anyone else is injured, arrange services to help them as needed. Keep copies of all of your medical bills and records.
Document the Accident
If you can, collect evidence while you are still at the scene of the car accident. This includes taking photographs of the crash scene. Inexperienced drivers are more likely to take dangerous risks. If there is evidence of fault, such as food wrappers in the front seat that could prove driver distraction, be sure to capture images.
Exchange Information
Exchange names, contact information and insurance details with the other driver. Ask to see his or her driver’s license. If the driver does not have a license or the license is not valid, make a note of this and report it to the police. Write down the driver’s vehicle description, vehicle registration information and license plate numbers. If there are any witnesses to the accident, get their information, as well.
Contact a Car Accident LawyerÂ
Before you notify your insurance provider about the crash, consult with a car accident lawyer in San Antonio for assistance. Holding someone without a license responsible for a collision can be difficult, as they may not have adequate car insurance.Â
You may need to turn to your own car insurance company for coverage, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist insurance. An attorney can negotiate with insurers and take your claim to trial, if necessary, to recover fair compensation for your injuries and losses.