This is something that every parent of a teen driver and every victim of an accident caused by a minor needs to know. Unfortunately, like most legal questions, the answer is, “it depends on the circumstances, and the laws in your state.” We know that is frustrating, and we are going to give you the basics so you can get an idea of how and when parental responsibility applies.
Negligence or Recklessness on the Part of a Child Driver
In most cases a minor will be held to the same standard as an adult, when determining if the child driver was negligent. Parents are only held responsible for driver negligence on the part of a child under certain circumstances. They are not automatically responsible for the child’s negligence.
Recklessness is different. Some states specifically hold parents responsible for accidents caused by recklessness on the part of a child driver. However, this typically does not apply if the child is driving without permission.
Circumstances that can Create Parental Liability
Circumstances under which a parent may be held responsible for their child’s negligent driving include:
- A parent who knows their child is an incompetent or reckless driver allows the child to drive, this includes but is not limited to parents who provide alcohol to their children or know the child is likely to be intoxicated
- The parent fails to supervise a child driver
- The child is driving for a family purpose at the parent’s request or with their consent
- The child driving the car in the course of working for the parent or acting as the parent’s agent
To learn more about parental liability for minor drivers, talk to an experienced car accident attorney in your area. Find a local car accident attorney by contacting us today. We only work with highly credentialed attorneys who have a proven track record of success.
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