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What if the Person Who Hits Me Does Not Have a Valid Driver's License

On Behalf of | | Motor Vehicle Accidents

If you’ve been involved in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, it’s stressful enough. If, however, the other driver can’t produce a driver’s license when you engage in the post-accident exchange of contact information – which includes exchanging driver’s licenses and proof of insurance – it makes the matter that much more complicated. Nevertheless, there are steps you can take to help ensure that your car accident claim is well protected and that you ultimately receive the compensation to which you’re entitled. One of the most important of these is consulting with an experienced South Carolina car accident attorney early in the process.

It’s Illegal to Drive without a License in South Carolina

While it’s illegal to drive without a license in South Carolina – and everywhere else in the nation – there are plenty of drivers out there who don’t let this fact stop them. Some of the most common examples of motorists who don’t have the necessary licensure include the following:

  • Teenagers who impulsively get behind the wheel before they’re licensed to do so

  • Motorists who simply fail to renew their licenses when they’re required to – often as a matter of oversight.

  • Elderly drivers with age-related conditions that prevented them from passing the driving test.

  • Drivers who’ve had their licenses suspended, such as for DUI.

While a driver whose license recently expired may still carry insurance coverage, a motorist who has had their license suspended or who hasn’t renewed it for a significant amount of time very likely doesn’t have car insurance and probably doesn’t have the resources to cover your legal damages, when this is the case, however, there are other options.

Uninsured Motorist Coverage

Although South Carolina is not a no-fault state when it comes to car accidents, drivers are, nonetheless, required to carry a specific amount of uninsured motorist (UIM) coverage, and many motorists carry more than the minimum requirements. If the unlicensed driver who leaves you injured in a car accident doesn’t have car insurance either, you can file your claim against your own UIM coverage.

Damages Covered

Your UIM policy can cover your damages in the primary categories of loss, including:

  • Your medical bills – both current and ongoing
  • Your lost income, which may include lost earning potential
  • Your physical and psychological pain and suffering, which can outpace your other losses combined

Stacking Policies

In certain instances, UIM policies can be stacked, which provides claimants with more complete coverage. Stacking refers to combining coverage from more than one UIM policy that directly covers you or your vehicle.

UIM claims tend to be challenging, but a focused car accident attorney is on your side and here to help.

You Need an Experienced South Carolina Car Accident Attorney in Your Corner

The formidable South Carolina car accident attorneys at Query Sautter & Uricchio, LLC dedicate their imposing practice to skillfully guiding challenging claims like yours toward optimal outcomes that honor our clients’ rights and support their rightful compensation. Learn more about what we can do to help you by contacting us online or calling 843-795-9500 today.