Tips For A Car Accident Case After Being Struck By A Minor

There's a reason why insurance companies tend to give 16-year-old new drivers a higher insurance rate than older drivers. Minor drivers are more likely to drive recklessly, and their inexperience could also increase the chances of an accident occurring. Were you recently struck and injured in an auto accident that was caused by a minor driver? Here are some tips to keep in mind if you intend to pursue a legal case.

The Minor Might Not Have Money, but the Parents Probably Do

Before you pursue any kind of civil case, you of course want to make sure that the payoff will be worth it. Most teenagers under the age of 18 are living off of their parents, so that's where you'll need to look if you want to research your financial prospects following a victory in court. In some states, you may also be able to hold the parents legally responsible for the actions of a teen driver, especially if the vehicle was registered to one of the parents and not the teen.

Take a Look at Social Media If Possible

Before you send out notification of an intent to sue, what you might want to do first is try to find any social media profiles for the teen involved. You will of course get their full name from their insurance information at the scene of the accident. Plug the name in online and see what you find. Are there social media photos of the teen driving recklessly? Maybe a video of them doing "donuts" in a parking lot? This may help demonstrate that the teen had a pattern of bad behavior before they hit you. It may also demonstrate that their parents knew about this frequent behavior before giving them access to the car.

Were Any Teen-Specific Laws Broken?

Besides just speeding or running a stop sign, the teen involved might be in violation of a state law aimed specifically at teen drivers. For example, a learner's permit may only allow driving at a certain time of day. A provisional license in some states might say the teen can't have more than one person in the car, in order to discourage joyrides with friends.

You Need a Lawyer for Best Results

If you do intend to sue following a car accident, you need legal representation for the best chance of success. Talk to a local car accident lawyer today for more information. 


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