Being involved in a car accident is always a stressful situation, but when the at-fault driver is a teenager, it can add another layer of complexity to the case. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by an underage driver, you may be wondering who is responsible for covering the damages.
If you’re wondering who pays when an underage driver hits you, below are details explaining the various scenarios and legal considerations surrounding accidents caused by teen drivers.
Auto Insurance and Teen Drivers
It’s not uncommon for teenagers to be involved in car accidents, as they are statistically more likely to be involved in crashes than any other age group. In fact, Kentucky ranked #1 in teen driving deaths.
If a minor causes a car accident while driving a parent’s car, the parent’s auto insurance policy will typically cover the damages. Most families choose to add their teen driver to their existing auto insurance policy, but in some cases, it may be better to purchase a separate policy for the teen. Either way, it’s essential to ensure that the teen driver is adequately covered by insurance.
In Kentucky, vehicle owners are required to have insurance coverage that meets the state minimums before operating their vehicles. However, students from out of state attending school in Kentucky are exempt from these requirements as long as they carry a current student ID card from their school whenever they drive. If a minor driver is not covered by insurance, the vehicle owner may be held liable for any damages caused by the accident.
Kentucky Laws for Minor-Caused Car Accidents
Under Kentucky law, parents may be held jointly or solely liable for any damages caused by their teenage child’s negligence while driving. When a teen driver applies for a driver’s license, a parent or guardian must sign the application, making them jointly liable for any damages caused by the minor’s negligence. This means that both the minor and the adult signer can be held independently liable for the injuries caused by the accident.
Additionally, Kentucky recognizes the family purpose doctrine, which holds vehicle owners responsible for damages caused by family members using the vehicle for ordinary family purposes. If a teen driver causes an accident while using a family vehicle, the vehicle owner may be held liable for the damages.
What to Do After an Accident With a Teen Driver
If you are involved in an accident with a teenage driver, there are certain steps to take to protect your rights and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Here are the steps you should take:
- First, call the police to report the accident and document the scene.
- Take photos of the vehicles, damage, and any relevant road signs or conditions.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, phone number, license plate, and insurance information.
Always seek medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident, even if they seem minor at first. In the days following the accident, you may receive calls from insurance companies looking for information about the accident. Consult with a car accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance company to ensure that your rights are protected.
How a Kentucky Car Accident Attorney Can Help
If you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a teenage driver, it’s essential to seek legal representation from an experienced car accident attorney. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
Contact McCoy & Sparks today to speak with our team of car accident lawyers about your case. Call our office at 1-844-459-9467 or fill out our online form to set up your free consultation. You owe nothing unless we win so there’s no risk for you.