At the David W. Martin Law Group, our South Carolina auto accident attorneys know liability for a car crash caused by a teen driver is generally determined based on negligence principles.
If a teen driver is found liable for a vehicle collision with injuries or fatalities, their insurance coverage may be pursued for the damages the inexperienced driver caused. Unfortunately, these accidents happen more often than most drivers think.
The South Carolina Department of Insurance reports more than 6,000 motor vehicle accidents per year involving teenage drivers. In South Carolina, a teen driver is involved in a collision that kills or injures someone every 1.4 hours.
Here are some potential scenarios and considerations regarding liability in a crash caused by a teen driver in South Carolina.
South Carolina Teen Drivers and Liability
If the teen driver’s negligent actions, like speeding, distracted driving, or violating traffic laws, directly caused the accident, the teen driver could be liable for the damages. However, the ability to pursue the teen driver’s assets may be limited due to their status as a minor.
South Carolina Teen Drivers and Parental Liability
South Carolina has a parental liability law, which means that parents can be held responsible for the actions of their minor children in certain circumstances. If the teen driver was living with their parents and driving a family-owned vehicle with the parent’s permission, the parents may be held partially liable for the damages.
Most teenage drivers are covered by their parent’s vehicle insurance policies, which would precede the parental liability law. The insurance policy that covers the vehicle – presumably the parent’s insurance policy — would be directly pursued for any damages resulting from the teen driver’s negligence.
Have You Been Injured or Lost a Loved One in a Crash Caused by a Teen Driver in South Carolina?
We want to help you pursue the liable party that caused your injuries or loved one’s death by calling 803-548-2468 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.
Our skilled South Carolina car accident attorneys will review your crash, outline your complete damages, and pursue the proper insurance coverage for your full financial recovery without delay.
