Inexperience, immaturity and recklessness put teen drivers at a high risk for being involved in auto accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), new teen drivers are twice as likely as adults to be involved in fatal crashes. At Thomas, Conrad & Conrad Law Offices, our personal injury attorneys understand the complexities of handling teen auto accident cases and have helped hundreds of injured victims recover compensation for damages such as medical bills, loss of wages and pain and suffering.
Risky Behaviors & Inexperience Cause Serious Accidents
Even the most careful teen drivers can become distracted or make poor decisions, which can lead to life-changing consequences. Despite public warnings about the dangers of texting and driving, many teens still use electronic devices when they’re behind the wheel. Teens are also more likely to drive at high speeds, drive while intoxicated and become distracted by music, eating and having friends in the car. Their inexperience also affects their driving skills. New drivers may not recognize dangerous situations or know how to properly react to them when on the road.
Recovering Compensation After A Teen Auto Accident
Teenagers may be liable for negligent conduct if they fail to behave in a reasonably careful manner. Although minors don’t usually have financial resources of their own, an injured party may be able to collect additional compensation for damages from a teen driver’s or their parents’ auto insurance company. Because Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, you can also collect compensation from your own insurance policy’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP).
If you’ve been seriously injured or have lost a loved one in an accident caused by a minor with no insurance to cover damages, it may be worth pursuing a lawsuit against the minor or their parents. If you successfully obtain a legal judgment for compensation in court, the parents may be held responsible or the minor will have to start paying the judgment when they turn 18 and start to earn money.
This legal process can be complex and time-consuming, so it’s essential to seek the assistance of an experienced attorney who is well-versed in handling teen auto accident cases. A personal injury attorney can advise you on the best course of action and explore all possible avenues to recover maximum compensation for your damages to protect your family’s financial security and ensure you receive the medical care you need.
Parents Can Help Prevent Teen Auto Accidents
If you’re a parent, talk to your teen about the importance of driver safety and the dangers of distracted and reckless driving. Enroll your child in a driver’s education class, set ground rules and consequences and be a good role model by practicing safe driving habits every time you get behind the wheel.
Contact An Attorney
Our personal injury attorneys at Thomas, Conrad & Conrad can help if you’ve been injured in an accident caused by a teen driver’s negligence. Call 610-867-2900 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.