Car accidents are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States. According to the CDC, approximately 2,800 teens between ages 13 and 19 are killed in motor vehicle crashes each year, and roughly 227,000 more are treated in emergency departments for crash-related injuries.

Why Teenage Drivers Are at Higher Risk

Teenage drivers face a unique combination of risk factors:

  • Inexperience: New drivers lack the experience to recognize and respond to hazards.
  • Risk-taking behavior: The prefrontal cortex is not fully developed until the mid-20s, leading to impulsive decisions.
  • Distracted driving: Teens are especially susceptible to smartphone and passenger distractions.
  • Speeding: Teenage drivers are more likely to exceed speed limits.
  • Nighttime driving: A disproportionate number of teen fatalities occur at night.
  • Impaired driving: Despite legal prohibitions, underage drinking remains a significant factor.

Parental Liability for Teen Driver Accidents

When a teenager causes a car accident, one of the first legal questions is whether the parents can be held financially responsible.

North Carolina

In North Carolina, parents can be held liable under the family purpose doctrine. When a parent provides a vehicle for general family use, any family member who drives it with permission is considered the parent's agent. Additionally, by signing the driver's license application for a minor, the parent assumes joint liability for the minor's negligent driving.

South Carolina

South Carolina also recognizes the family purpose doctrine. It additionally applies negligent entrustment, allowing an injured party to hold parents liable if they knew or should have known their teen was a reckless driver and allowed them to drive anyway.

Georgia

Georgia follows a similar approach, recognizing both doctrines. Under O.C.G.A. section 51-2-2, a parent who signs a minor's driver's license application assumes liability for any negligent or willful misconduct of the minor while driving.

What to Do If Your Teenager Is Injured

If your teenager has been injured in a car accident caused by another driver:

  • Ensure your teen receives immediate medical attention
  • Report the accident to law enforcement
  • Document the accident scene and other driver's information
  • Do not allow your teen to give a recorded statement to the other insurance company
  • Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney as soon as possible

As a parent, you have the legal authority to pursue a claim on behalf of your minor child. Settlement proceeds are often placed in a trust or structured settlement until the child reaches majority.

Protecting Your Family

Whether your teen has been injured or caused an accident, the legal and financial stakes can be enormous. At Dr. Ted Injury Law, we understand these complex cases. Contact us at (800) 555-HURT for a free, confidential consultation.