What should I do if I’m being sued for a car accident that happen a year and a half ago?
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What should I do if I’m being sued for a car accident that happen a year and a half ago?
I would like to know what are my rights. At the time my car insurance was expired.
Asked on December 16, 2013 under Accident Law, California
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 10 years ago | Contributor
If you did not have insurance at the time, then you could be personally responsible--that is, have to pay out of your money--for any damages, injuries, or costs suffered by the other party, assuming that you were at fault in causing those damages, injuries, or costs. Fault is based on carelessness in car accidents, so if you were driving carelessly (for example, driving too fast, while impaired or drunk, while texting, etc.; going through stop lights or signs, ignoring right of way, etc.) then you could be liable, or responsible to pay, for the other person's injuries or damages. Having no insurance does not mean you can't be sued--it just means there is no one to defend you or pay for you, other than yourself.
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