Having past driving convictions does not automatically void your ability to file a car crash claim. A past driving conviction also cannot be used to prove your negligence in a current car crash. However, past driving convictions could still hurt your case.
Evidence Could Be Admitted to Prove Dishonesty in Your Testimony
Past driving convictions can be used against you to damage your credibility. For example, say you have past driving convictions for speeding. However, in your current car crash case, you testify that you are always careful to follow the posted speed limits. This may open the way for your old convictions to be used to make you look dishonest. Credibility is critical in any injury claim. If you are caught being dishonest about anything in your statement, it casts doubt on anything else you say about your crash.
Every case is different, and there are multiple factors that could affect the outcome of your car crash claim, such as:
The other party was at fault for the crash and received a citation for a traffic violation
You were partially at fault for the crash and have received tickets for similar past violations
The other party caused the crash and has past driving convictions on his or her record
Having a car crash claim with a past driving conviction creates a lot of challenges and could make it harder to recover compensation. This is something we encourage you to speak about with a qualified attorney as soon after your crash as possible. He or she will have questions to ask you about the crash to clarify certain details. However, you can also get answers to your legal questions in this zero cost, risk-free meeting.