Teen drivers, due to their inexperience, are at a higher risk of being involved in car accidents. Unfortunately, teen driving accidents in Bothell can lead to severe injuries and even fatalities. If a teen driver caused an accident that injured you or a loved one, you likely have many pressing questions. A skilled car accident attorney can help you navigate the complexities of getting compensation for injuries sustained in a teen driving accident.
Why Teens Are More Likely to Be Involved in an Accident
Experienced motorists develop critical skills over time, including understanding how vehicles respond at various speeds, maintaining focus on the road, and reacting effectively to unexpected situations. Beginners, lacking this experience, often struggle to respond appropriately in unpredictable scenarios.
Some of the most common causes of teen driving crashes in Bothell include:
- Impaired driving
- Inexperience in defensive driving
- Speeding/losing control even if speeds are within the posted limits
- Distractions, including phones, passengers, or external events
Some infractions, including DUI, speeding, using a phone, or traveling with certain passengers, are illegal for teen drivers. Other actions that make them liable are typically related to poor decision-making or inability to maintain control of an unexpected situation. Teen drivers are expected to obey the same roadway laws as more experienced drivers and are responsible for accidents they cause.
Can Teens Be Held Liable for Accidents?
Like other drivers, underage drivers must navigate the roadways responsibly and follow regulations. However, young drivers are less likely to have the funds to pay expensive medical bills or vehicle repair costs. Teens can be held financially responsible for accidents they cause in Bothell in two ways.
Teenage drivers are required to carry liability insurance. An injured person can file a claim with the insurance company to get compensation for medical expenses and other losses related to the accident.
If the driver’s insurance does not fully cover injury costs, the driver’s parents may be held financially responsible. Courts may hold parents accountable for their child’s negligence if they knew about reckless behavior or if the teen was driving for family-related purposes, such as running errands. Consulting a personal injury lawyer is essential for determining the best approach to seeking compensation after a teen driving accident.
Contact a Bothell Attorney for Teen Driving Accident Claims
Although teens have limited driving experience and are often underage, they can be held liable for their actions while driving. However, teen driving accidents in Bothell can have underlying circumstances that make filing a claim more complicated. If you or a loved one has been injured in a teen driving accident, a skilled personal injury attorney could help you gather evidence to prove negligence and assist you in filing a claim.
Contact the attorneys at Libby Law Offices, LLC, to learn more about your legal options after an accident.