Learning to drive is a watershed moment in the lives of most American teenagers, and especially for those growing up in an area as broadly car-centric as Houston. However, like anyone learning a new skill, teen drivers are more likely to make mistakes behind the wheel than more experienced adults would be, and that unfortunately means teen drivers are also more likely to cause traffic accidents on public roads.
The idea of filing a lawsuit against a teenager can understandably seem less than appealing, even if you need to recover financially for serious crash-related losses which that teenager directly caused. Fortunately, you very likely have other recovery options after being hurt in a teen driving accident in Houston, and you also have help available from the seasoned auto injury attorneys at Mostyn Law to make the most of those options.
Parental Liability for Teenaged Drivers in Houston
Regardless of their age or experience level, anyone who operates a motor vehicle on public roads in the Lone Star State assumes personal liability for their actions behind the wheel, which means they are also liable for any property damage or physical injuries they cause through their own negligent driving. However, because people under the age of 18 are not legally considered adults in Texas, their parent(s) or guardian(s) often assume legal liability for their child’s actions on the road.
More specifically, parents and guardians of teen drivers in Houston are liable for property damage stemming from traffic accidents caused by their children if their child’s negligent behavior can be attributed to their parent or guardian’s failure to supervise them properly. Furthermore, people who allow their child to use their personal vehicle despite knowing the child is unlicensed, intoxicated, or otherwise irresponsible may hold liability for personal injuries caused by that child through the negligent use of that vehicle, as our attorneys can further explain during an initial consultation.
What Damages Are Recoverable After a Wreck Caused by an Underage Driver?
Regardless of who is explicitly held liable for a Houston car crash caused by a teen driver, an ensuing civil claim can seek restitution for both economic and non-economic losses stemming from the incident. This can include, but is not strictly limited to, things like:
- Medical bills
- Out-of-pocket expenses for vehicle repairs, damaged property, disability management, etc.
- Lost work income and/or working ability
- Physical discomfort and pain
- Mental anguish and suffering
- Lost enjoyment/quality of life
It is worth mentioning, though, that different auto insurance policies will provide different amounts of coverage for different types of losses, and certain losses may only be recoverable through a civil lawsuit as opposed to an insurance claim. A member of our team can answer any questions you have about your recovery options and help you effectively pursue the compensation you need.
Contact Our Houston Attorneys for Help with a Teen Driving Accident Claim
Not every teen driver is guaranteed to act irresponsibly behind the wheel, but it is a statistical fact that teen drivers are more likely to be involved in wrecks than adult drivers are. If you are dealing with injuries stemming from a wreck of this nature, you will need help from knowledgeable legal counsel if you want to effectively seek financial recovery for the consequences of those injuries.
Our team here at Mostyn Law will never give up on your case once we take it on, and we will fight to the end to ensure you receive the restitution you deserve. Call today to schedule a meeting and discuss your legal options following a teen driving accident in Houston.
(832) 844-5116 