When you’re running a bit late, there’s seemingly nothing worse than getting stuck behind a student driver who is traveling with the utmost caution, likely going slower than the rest of the surrounding traffic. However, when you are involved in a collision because of a learning driver, you may not know how to proceed. After all, the driver who hit you doesn’t even have a license yet! When you’re injured by a student driver, contacting a San Angelo, Texas auto accident lawyer is vital to taking the necessary steps to receive compensation. Keep reading to learn how to proceed after this kind of collision.
What Are the Steps to Take After I’ve Been Hit By a Student Driver?
Immediately following the collision, you must take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others on the road. The first thing you should do is contact emergency services to request a police presence and emergency medical attention. This is vital, especially when injuries are apparent, as immediate treatment can help reduce chronic issues.
Once you receive treatment for your injuries, you must exchange information with the other driver. Generally, this includes the student driver with a permit and the instructor if the student is learning at a driving school. It is vital to gather the name and insurance information for both parties, as the instructor will have the school’s insurance details on their person. You should also take photos and videos that show the extent of the damage to your vehicle and any injuries sustained in the collision.
How Is Liability Determined?
Once you have taken the necessary steps immediately following a collision, you should contact your insurance company straight away.
Typically, three parties can be held responsible for the collision – the student driver, the instructor in the vehicle, and the driving school. Though you may have sympathy for the student driver, as this is an overwhelming experience for any, it is vital to understand that they still have a responsibility to drive safely. If they were found to be negligent, it is likely their parent or guardian’s insurance company will cover them.
However, it is also possible that the instructor can be held liable for any injuries, as it is their responsibility to act in emergency situations to prevent collisions and dangerous incidents. If the instructor is found responsible, it is very likely that you can also hold the driving school accountable. This is because the school is responsible for hiring the best, most qualified instructors. If the teacher in the car acted negligently or the school didn’t train them properly, you may be able to recover damages from the school as well.
When injured in a collision at the hands of a student driver, you may be hesitant to pursue a lawsuit, as being a new driver can be scary, and mistakes are bound to happen. However, it is essential to receive the compensation you are entitled to when injured, especially if the instructor or driving school failed the student driver. Contact the Mathis Law Firm today to learn more about how we can help you receive the justice you deserve.
