Teen Driver Accident Lawyer in Queens
Car accidents involving teen drivers are a significant threat, not only to the safety of young drivers but to anyone on the road around them. One of the leading causes of teen car accidents is drinking and driving. According to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), 25 percent of teen car accidents involve a drunk driver. Even without alcohol, teens put themselves and others at risk due to their inexperience as drivers, as well as their propensity for risk-taking. If you were hurt in a crash involving a teen driver, a Queens car accident lawyer can evaluate your case to see if you could be entitled to compensation.
Damages Available After a Car Accident with a Teen Driver
Victims of car accidents involving teen drivers can pursue various types of monetary damages, including for their:
- Lost Wages – Compensation for missed work due to injuries
- Medical Expenses – Current and future medical costs, including emergency room services, hospitalization, medication, and follow-up care
- Pain and Suffering – Physical and emotional distress from the crash
- Property Damage – Repairs or replacement costs to the damaged vehicle
If someone succumbs to injuries caused by a teen driver car accident, their estate’s representative can file a wrongful death suit on behalf of their survivors.
Are Teen Driver Accident Claims Processed Differently in Queens, New York?
While claims against teen drivers are generally processed the same as those against other drivers, there are a few key differences to know about.
Insurance Policies
Minors are typically covered under their parents’ insurance policies, though this might not be the case for older teens. An experienced attorney can investigate the situation to determine all relevant insurance policies and pursue claims against each available one.
Parental Liability
In addition to the above scenario, parents might be personally liable for accidents their children cause under the concept of negligent supervision. When it comes to teens and car accidents, this legal doctrine holds that the parent of a teen driver who has a history of reckless or irresponsible driving must prevent that teen from driving their vehicle. If they fail to do so – such as by allowing the teen access to their vehicle – they could be liable for a crash the teen causes.
Who Could Be Liable for Injuries After an Accident With a Teen Driver in Queens?
Several different parties could be liable for a teen driving accident, including:
- The Teen Driver – As the operator of the vehicle, the teen driver is responsible for its safe operation. Negligence like speeding, running stop signals, or simple carelessness could make them liable for the accident.
- The Teen Driver’s Parents – Parents may share liability if they knew their teen was an unsafe driver or allowed them to drive without proper supervision.
- Other Parties – In some cases, another driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or even a government entity responsible for road maintenance might share liability if their actions contributed to the accident.
Contact our Queens Car Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one suffered injuries after a car accident caused by a teen driver, our Queens personal injury lawyers want to help you get the money you deserve. The last thing you need after a crash is to have to deal with an insurance company that wants to downplay or deny your claim. Let a teen driver car accident lawyer with Finz & Finz, P.C. take care of it. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation.