When you get into an accident with a young driver, you may wonder what comes next and how to handle the claim process effectively. Teen driving accidents in Westerville often involve unique challenges, as many young drivers are still listed on their parents’ insurance policies. Fortunately, that typically gives them the same coverage as older drivers, which could help provide you with the compensation needed for the damages sustained in an accident.
If you were involved in an accident with a young, negligent driver, contact our dedicated car accident attorneys for help with your claim.
Teen drivers have a greater risk of involvement in accidents than other drivers in Westerville for several reasons. First and foremost, teen drivers may not have the same level of experience as older drivers, which means they may not know how to react appropriately if a dangerous situation occurs. In addition, teen drivers may suffer from greater distraction behind the wheel, including increased difficulty driving when they have passengers in the car.
The state uses a graduated license system that restricts driving during the first year after a teen receives a license. The law prohibits teens from using cell phones, even hands-free, and may limit the number of passengers they can transport. These measures aim to reduce the risks associated with teen drivers, but they do not eliminate those risks entirely.
After an accident with a teen driver in Westerville, injured individuals may have the right to compensation for their injuries. That compensation may include not only the financial losses faced after an accident, including the cost of medical bills and any wages lost because of those injuries, but also the non-financial pain and suffering the injured person has to deal with.
If a teen driver does not have insurance or does not have adequate insurance to cover the damages, the injured individual may need to pursue compensation through their own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage.
In order to determine whether the teen driver bears liability for an accident, insurance companies and lawyers will take a careful look at the factors that led to the incident. A teen driver who engaged in potentially dangerous or negligent behavior may bear liability for the incident, which means the claim will go through their insurance company.
Negligent behavior may include:
Teen drivers may bear liability for accidents caused by inexperience, lack of knowledge, or deliberate reckless behavior, such as aggressive driving or attempting to show off behind the wheel.
State law requires a parent or guardian to sign a teen’s driver’s license application. If injuries and vehicle damage occur because of the teen’s negligence or recklessness, the parent may bear liability for the incident. However, the auto insurance policy generally covers those damages.
Teen driving accidents in Westerville can be legally complex. A lawyer can help you determine whether the teen bears liability for the accident, what evidence you need to establish liability, and what compensation you deserve. At Olawale Law Firm, we are dedicated to helping you achieve fair compensation for your losses. Contact us for your free case review.