Getting in a car accident is stressful enough. If your vehicle registration is expired at the time of the crash, it can add more complications. At the Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell, we often hear from clients in California who are unsure how expired registration affects their ability to recover damages. Here is what you need to know.
Driving With Expired Registration Is Illegal in California
In California, it is against the law to drive with expired registration. If you are pulled over, you can receive a citation and a fine. If you are involved in an accident with expired registration, you will still be held accountable for the crash like any other driver, but the expired registration could come up during the investigation and insurance process.
Fault Still Determines Liability
California is a fault-based state when it comes to auto accidents. This means the person who caused the accident is responsible for paying damages. Whether or not your registration is expired does not automatically make you at fault.
Even if your tags are out of date, you can still file a personal injury claim if another driver caused the accident. However, if you are found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of responsibility. This is known as comparative negligence.
Will Expired Registration Affect Your Insurance Claim?
Insurance companies may try to use expired registration as a reason to delay or deny your claim. While registration status should not directly impact your insurance coverage, some policies include language requiring your vehicle to be legally operable. If your policy has such a clause, the insurer might push back.
If you were injured and the accident was not your fault, it is important to speak to a personal injury attorney. We can help you deal with the insurance company and make sure they do not wrongfully deny your claim.
Can You Still Recover Damages?
Yes, you can still pursue compensation for injuries, lost wages, and vehicle damage even if your registration was expired. The key factor is who was at fault for the accident.
Fix Your Registration Right Away
Even if you were not at fault, updating your vehicle registration as soon as possible can help show that you are acting in good faith. It also prevents further legal trouble if you need to continue driving.
Let Us Help You Navigate the Aftermath
An accident with expired registration does not mean you lose your legal rights. At the Law Offices of Brent W. Caldwell, we have helped many California drivers deal with complex situations after a crash. We offer free consultations and do not charge any fees unless we win your case.
Call us today to schedule your free consultation.
