Getting behind the wheel for the first time can be exciting—and a little nerve-wracking. If you’re a learner driver in New Bedford, Massachusetts, you’re probably focused on remembering the rules of the road, checking your mirrors, and not mixing up the gas and the brake. But accidents happen, even to the most careful beginners. So what if you’re a learner driver and you get into a crash? Or what if you’re hit by someone who’s still learning to drive?
Let’s break it down in plain English.
First Things First: What Is a Learner Driver?
In Massachusetts, a learner driver is someone who has a learner’s permit. This means they’re allowed to practice driving, but only under specific conditions. For example, they must be accompanied by a licensed adult who’s at least 21 years old and has had their license for at least one year. They also can’t drive between midnight and 5 a.m. unless they’re with a parent or guardian.
That means learner drivers aren’t supposed to be out driving solo or breaking any of these rules. But sometimes, they do—and that can complicate things if there’s an accident.
So What Happens if a Learner Driver Causes a Crash?
Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned one, Massachusetts is an “at-fault” state when it comes to car accidents. That means whoever caused the accident can be held financially responsible. If a learner driver is found to be at fault, things get a little tricky.
Here are a few possible scenarios:
1. The Learner Driver Was Following the Rules
If the learner driver had a licensed adult in the car and was obeying the conditions of their permit, the situation is handled similarly to any other accident. The driver (or more likely, their insurance) will be held responsible for the damages if they were at fault.
2. The Learner Was Breaking the Rules
If the learner was driving alone or violating the terms of their permit, they could face serious consequences. Not only could their permit be suspended, but they may also face fines, increased insurance costs, or even criminal charges in some cases.
On top of that, the fact that they were driving illegally can complicate insurance claims. The insurance company may try to deny coverage, especially if the driver was clearly violating the law. This can leave the driver—and possibly their family—personally responsible for the damages.
That’s where having a New Bedford personal injury lawyer becomes critical. If you’re the victim in a crash caused by a learner driver who was breaking the rules, a skilled car accident lawyer in New Bedford can help you untangle the legal mess and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Who Pays for the Damages?
In most cases, the learner driver is covered under their parent or guardian’s car insurance policy. So even if they’re the one driving, it’s the insurance company that will likely handle the claim.
However, if the insurance company refuses to pay because the learner was violating the terms of their permit, the issue might end up in court. A personal injury attorney in New Bedford can help you navigate that process and hold the responsible party accountable—whether it’s the learner, their parents, or their insurer.
What If You’re the One Hit by a Learner Driver?
If you were hit by a learner driver in New Bedford, you have rights just like in any other accident. You can file a claim for your medical bills, lost wages, and any other costs tied to the crash.
But because of the added wrinkle of the driver being inexperienced—or worse, unlicensed—your case might need a little more attention. A New Bedford car accident lawyer will know how to dig into the driver’s record, check for permit violations, and deal with tricky insurance situations.
Even if the learner was technically insured, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or shift blame. That’s where having someone who knows the local laws and courts can make a huge difference.
Don’t Try to Handle It Alone
If you’re involved in any kind of accident—especially one that involves a learner driver—it’s a smart move to consult with a personal injury attorney in New Bedford. Not only can they explain your rights in plain language, but they can also make sure you’re not getting taken advantage of by an insurance company.
Most personal injury lawyers offer free consultations, so there’s no risk in reaching out and getting your questions answered.
Final Thoughts
Accidents involving learner drivers can bring up a lot of questions and unexpected complications. Whether you’re the learner, the other driver, or a concerned parent, knowing your rights and responsibilities is key. And if you’re unsure about your next steps, a New Bedford personal injury lawyer can help you sort through the confusion and fight for a fair outcome.
In a place like New Bedford, where local knowledge and legal expertise go hand-in-hand, having a trusted car accident lawyer in New Bedford on your side can make all the difference.
