Because teen drivers are just hitting the roads for the first time, they are more likely to become involved in a car accident by default. In fact, for teens who are aged 16-19, they are actually three times more likely to be involved in a fatal crash than drivers who are over 20 years of age. This is especially true in situations involving teen drivers who have teen passengers and teens who have just newly received their licenses.

What happens if you have been involved in an accident caused by a teen driver? Who will be liable for your accident when a teenager is likely unable to pay for your damages on their own? With the help of a skilled attorney, you will find out what options you have when you have been injured in an accident that was no fault of your own.

Risk Factors Seen in Teen Driving Accidents 

Inexperience: Because teen drivers have not been utilizing the roads for as long as most adults, they tend to be more inexperienced and might not be able to diffuse various dangerous situations that occur on our roads. Teens are more likely to make critical decisions that actually lead to an accident. 

Speeding: Teens are also more likely to speed in vehicles than adult counterparts.

Intoxication: Teens are less likely to understand the consequences of drinking and driving. According to a recent survey, 5.5% of students said that they drove after drinking alcohol 30 days before the survey was taken.

Statistics have shown that approximately 75% of serious crashes involving teens have taken place due to critical errors. Teens don’t always properly scan the roadway for hazards and tend to become easily distracted. Because of this, an accident can take place in the blink of an eye.

Who is Liable in a Teen Driving Accident?  

In almost all cases, the owner of a motor vehicle is liable for an accident that takes place involving their vehicle. If a teen is involved in an accident with you and it was their fault, the parents will almost always be liable unless the vehicle was stolen from them. If a teen driver is properly insured, then their insurance will almost always cover your costs like medical bills and more when you have been seriously injured. In these situations, you should never be without the help of an attorney who can negotiate on your behalf and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.

If the driver’s insurance is unable to cover all the costs of the care that you require, you will have to file a lawsuit against the teen driver. Some teenagers only cover ‘just enough’ coverage and do not have maximum amounts of liability coverage to help in the midst of a horrific accident. Because of this, you never want to stand alone as you file your claim.

Help from an Attorney After a Teen Driving Accident 

Being involved in an accident is a life-changing experience and one that you likely do not want to handle on your own. This is especially true if you have been injured at the hands of a teen driver. Our attorneys at Sheftall & Associates have dedicated ourselves to helping thousands of victims and will continue to fight aggressively to ensure that the rights of many are protected. Our car accident attorneys will ensure that you are able to move forward with maximum compensation. Please contact our Florida attorneys at 904-647-2296 to find out how we can assist you.