It is natural to feel overwhelmed if you have recently lost a friend or loved one because of the negligent actions of an intoxicated driver. The grief of your loss can make settling necessary legal matters seem like an intimidating burden. This article is intended to help inform you of the actions needed to settle license and vehicle issues with the DMV following a family’s member’s death in a DUI accident.

Your first step is to contact the Virginia DMV. Next, you should consult with a personal injury attorney that specializes in Virginia drunk-driving accidents. It is important that the accident lawyer you choose to represent you has experience in handing cases like yours and is an expert in DUI law.

Clearing Your Loved One’s Driver’s License or ID Card Record

It is important to clear your loved one’s driver’s license record from the DMV database for several reasons. One reason is to avoid future inquiries from the DMV that may lead to administrative problems. Another reason is to prevent identity theft. There are many unscrupulous individuals who scour local obituaries in the newspaper in order to commit identity theft. By clearing the driver’s license, you can help prevent identity theft of your loved one.

In order to clear the records, you should bring your loved one’s driver’s license, ID card, death certificate, and any handicapped parking permits or plates to a Virginia DMV customer service center. This is a simple step that can be completed while you wait. Although you may come at any time during business hours, the DMV suggests visiting during the middle of the month because of shorter wait times. 

If you cannot make it to a Virginia DMV customer service center, you can mail a letter requesting that your loved one’s driver’s license, ID card or handicapped parking permit be cleared. Be sure to enclose a certified or notarized (raised seal) copy of the death certificate.