Getting into a car accident is stressful enough. But when you find out the other driver doesn’t even have a valid license, things can feel even more complicated. In Las Vegas, many people drive without a license—sometimes because it’s suspended, expired, or never issued in the first place. If this happens to you, understanding your rights and next steps can make a major difference in how your claim turns out.
Below, we’ll cover everything you need to know about what happens if you’re hit by an unlicensed driver in Las Vegas, including legal consequences, insurance complications, and what steps to take immediately after the crash.
Understanding the Risks of Driving Without a License
Driving without a valid license is against Nevada law. Still, it happens every day across Clark County. The risks of unlicensed driving affect everyone on the road, not just the driver without a license.
Criminal charges: In Nevada, an unlicensed driver can face criminal penalties. Depending on the situation, it could be a misdemeanor or even a felony if the person has prior offenses or caused serious harm.
Civil liability: Unlicensed drivers can be held financially responsible for damages and injuries they cause. Because they often don’t have insurance, victims are left with limited recovery options.
Insurance problems: If an unlicensed driver gets into a crash, most insurance companies will not cover the damages. Even worse, if you knowingly let an unlicensed person drive your vehicle, your own policy could deny coverage.
Driving without a license is more than just a traffic violation—it can lead to expensive lawsuits and major financial loss for everyone involved.
Legal Implications of Unlicensed Driving in Nevada
Nevada law requires every driver on public roads to have a valid driver’s license. If someone drives without one, they are considered unlicensed and legally unqualified to operate a vehicle.
Here’s what can happen when an unlicensed driver is involved in a crash:
- They can face fines and court costs.
- Their driving privileges can be suspended or delayed if they try to apply for a license later.
- In more serious cases, they could face jail time, especially if the accident causes injury or death.
Even though the unlicensed driver broke the law, you’ll still need to prove fault to recover damages. Nevada follows a fault-based system, which means the person who caused the crash is financially responsible. But if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, things get trickier.
What to Do Right After an Accident With an Unlicensed Driver
Car accidents happen fast, and the moments right after are often filled with confusion. Taking the right steps can help protect your health and your legal rights.
Check for injuries: Start by making sure everyone is safe. Move to a secure area away from traffic and call 911 if anyone is hurt. Even if injuries seem minor, adrenaline can hide pain, so it’s best to get checked by a doctor right away.
Call the police: Always report the accident. In Nevada, drivers must report any crash involving injuries, death, or property damage. The police report will also document whether the other driver had a valid license or not, which is important for your claim.
Exchange information: If possible, get the other driver’s name, address, and insurance details. If they don’t have a license or insurance, note that and share it with the responding officer.
Take photos: Use your phone to take pictures of the vehicles, license plates, street signs, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Visual proof can make or break your insurance claim later.
Collect witness information: Ask anyone who saw the crash for their contact details. Witness statements help confirm what really happened if the other driver denies fault.
Get medical care: Even if you feel fine, visit a medical professional soon after the crash. Some injuries, like concussions or soft-tissue damage, don’t show symptoms right away.
These steps can strengthen your claim and make it easier to prove what happened when you file for compensation.
Documenting the Scene and Collecting Evidence
Evidence is key to building a strong claim, especially when dealing with an unlicensed driver. You’ll want as much documentation as possible from the scene.
Police report: This is one of the most valuable pieces of evidence. It includes details about both drivers, vehicle damage, possible violations, and the officer’s assessment of what happened.
Photos and videos: Take wide shots of the accident scene and close-ups of the damage. Include streetlights, intersections, and any debris on the road. Videos can capture details that photos might miss.
Witness statements: If anyone saw the collision, their testimony can back up your version of events. Eyewitnesses often provide unbiased details that help when the other driver’s story changes.
If the accident occurred near a business, look around for security cameras. Let the police know so they can request footage, which may show exactly how the crash happened.
Legal Consequences and Liability Issues
An unlicensed driver in Las Vegas faces more than just a ticket. The penalties can include fines, suspension from applying for a license, and even jail time. But for victims, the biggest concern is how to recover damages.
If the unlicensed driver caused the accident, they can be held personally liable. However, many unlicensed drivers don’t have car insurance. That makes it hard to get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, or repairs.
In some cases, you might be able to file a claim under your own insurance policy using uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage helps pay for expenses when the at-fault driver doesn’t have adequate insurance.
If the unlicensed driver borrowed someone else’s car, the owner might also share responsibility—especially if they knew the person wasn’t licensed.
What Happens If an Unlicensed Driver Crashes Your Car
If you let someone drive your car knowing they don’t have a valid license, you could face serious insurance issues. Most policies exclude coverage for unlicensed drivers. That means if they crash your car, your insurance company could refuse to pay for the damage.
Even if your policy does cover the incident, it could result in higher premiums. Some insurers see it as a major risk factor. You might also face personal liability if the unlicensed driver injures someone else.
Always confirm that anyone borrowing your vehicle has a valid driver’s license and is listed on your policy if possible.
Insurance Complications and Coverage Options
Insurance claims after an accident with an unlicensed driver can get complicated. Most insurance providers deny coverage if their policyholder is driving without a license.
For the victim, this means you’ll likely rely on your own coverage. Here are your main options:
Uninsured motorist coverage (UM): Pays for injuries and property damage when the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance.
Underinsured motorist coverage (UIM): Covers the difference when the other driver’s insurance isn’t enough to pay for all damages.
Collision coverage: Helps pay for repairs to your car, regardless of who caused the crash.
Medical payments coverage: Can cover hospital bills or ambulance costs for you and your passengers.
If your insurance company delays or denies your claim, speak with a Las Vegas personal injury lawyer who can review your coverage and push for fair compensation.
Hit and Run with No License
Sometimes, an unlicensed driver will flee the scene to avoid getting caught. This turns your accident into a hit-and-run case, which makes recovery even harder.
If that happens:
- Call the police immediately and give them as much detail as you can about the car, driver, or license plate.
- Tell your insurance company right away so they can open an uninsured motorist claim.
- Ask nearby businesses or residents if they have security cameras that might have captured the vehicle.
Even if the driver is never found, you might still be able to recover damages through your own policy. Quick reporting and solid documentation make a huge difference in these situations.
How to Work With Law Enforcement
Police play a big role in cases involving unlicensed drivers. After reporting the crash, cooperate fully with their investigation. Provide accurate details about what happened and share any evidence you collected.
The police report, citations, and any related criminal charges against the unlicensed driver can strengthen your civil claim. If the case goes to court, this information shows that the other driver was breaking the law when the accident occurred.
When to Talk to a Lawyer
Dealing with an accident caused by an unlicensed driver can be frustrating and time-consuming. Insurance companies often deny claims or offer low settlements. A personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and pursue compensation from every possible source.
An attorney can:
- Review your insurance coverage for potential benefits.
- Collect evidence, witness statements, and police reports.
- Handle all communication with insurance adjusters.
- Negotiate for fair compensation or file a lawsuit if needed.
Working with a lawyer early gives you a better chance of getting your medical bills, lost income, and vehicle repairs covered.
FAQs
Can an unlicensed driver be held responsible for an accident?
Yes. They can be held both criminally and civilly liable for any damages or injuries they cause.
Will insurance cover an accident with an unlicensed driver?
It depends on your policy. Many insurance companies deny coverage if an unlicensed driver was involved, but your uninsured motorist coverage might help.
Can I get compensation if the driver doesn’t have insurance?
You might be able to file under your own insurance policy or take legal action to recover damages directly from the driver.
What happens if the unlicensed driver flees the scene?
Report it to the police right away. If the driver isn’t found, your uninsured motorist coverage can help cover your losses.
Will my premiums go up after an accident like this?
If you file a claim, it’s possible your premiums will increase. However, your lawyer may be able to help minimize long-term financial impact.
Call Friedman Injury Law
If you were hit by an unlicensed driver in Las Vegas, you don’t have to deal with the fallout alone. The Las Vegas personal injury lawyers at Friedman Injury Law can help you understand your options, deal with uncooperative insurance companies, and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Call (702) 970-4222 today for a free consultation. Get the help you need to recover physically, emotionally, and financially after your accident.
