When you got the call that your teenager had been involved in an automobile collision, you rushed over to the scene. That phone call put you on edge and made you concerned for your child’s health and wellbeing, but what happened next was surprising. The driver of the other vehicle approached you, and they were another young teen.
In this case, you found yourself frustrated, because you want the penalties to be fair and just. At the same time, you don’t know how it will be perceived if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim on your child’s behalf. It could hurt their friendship with the other person, for example, which is the last thing you want.
Age doesn’t matter when it comes to a personal injury claim
Remember that your child has been hurt, so the driver’s age doesn’t matter for the purpose of making a personal injury claim. While you may feel like suing or making a claim isn’t appropriate when the other party is just learning how to drive, the reality is that they do need to face the consequences of their actions.
Remember that making a personal injury claim is normal. As long as the teen has insurance, they can largely be kept out of the negotiation process and you, as a parent, can handle your child’s case. If your child is friends with the other person, explain to them that you’re not doing this to be mean or vindictive. It’s simply business.
The medical bills and expenses add up after a collision, and someone should be held liable for it. This is an ideal situation to talk to your own child about victims or crashes, their rights and the costs that may be associated with their injuries in the months and years to come. You don’t have to harbor ill-will toward the other driver, but holding them accountable will allow you to cover medical expenses, lost wages and other financial losses that may influence your life in the weeks, months and years to come.
Teens can be held liable after they cause auto collisions. Like any other driver, they can be held responsible for their actions.
