By Marcus Fernandez
Liability and responsible parties can differ when you are involved in a car accident with a teen driver in Tampa. Learn who is liable in an auto accident involving a teenage driver and how you can protect your rights and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
Vlog Transcript:
“Inexperienced drivers, and those are drivers between the ages of 15 -17, are major causes of traffic accidents. If you find yourself in a situation where you’ve been injured by a teen driver, you want to make sure to consult with a lawyer that has experience in identifying who can be held accountable for the injuries caused by that driver.
By holding accountable, I mean somebody that we can assert a claim against. That would be the driver themselves, the owner of the vehicle, anybody who signed for that teen’s driver’s license, and the person who entrusted the vehicle to the teen driver.
So, if you have any questions or concerns, you can find us at KFBLaw.com and reach out for a free consultation.”
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A Parent’s Liability for a Teen Driver in Florida
In Florida, parents can be held liable for the actions of their teenage drivers under certain circumstances. This liability arises from a legal principle known as “vicarious liability,” where parents or guardians can be responsible for the negligent actions of their minor children while driving. When a teenager is involved in a car accident, the injured party may seek compensation not only from the teen but also from the parents, especially if the teen is under the age of 18.
Florida law requires parents or guardians to sign the driver’s license application of any minor under 18, which effectively assumes responsibility for the minor’s driving behavior. This agreement means that if a teen driver causes an accident, the parents’ insurance policy may be used to cover the damages.
Additionally, parents must ensure that their teen drivers are covered under their auto insurance policy. In cases of serious accidents, the financial liability can be significant, potentially impacting the family’s finances if the damages exceed the insurance coverage. It is crucial for parents to understand these responsibilities and take proactive steps to teach safe driving habits and ensure adequate insurance coverage for their teen drivers.
