Accidents involving teen drivers can be overwhelming, especially when you’re recovering from an injury and unsure of how the law works. You may be wondering if it’s even possible to hold a minor accountable or whether their parents can be sued instead. In California, the law does allow you to pursue compensation after an accident caused by a student or teen driver, but the process may involve more than one responsible party.
Understanding Liability for Minor Drivers in California
Teen drivers are held to the same traffic laws and standards as adults. If a teen causes a car crash due to careless driving, like speeding, texting behind the wheel, or ignoring traffic signals, you can file a personal injury claim against them. Age doesn’t excuse negligence.
Under California law, minors can be held legally responsible for injuries they cause in car accidents. While teens can’t enter binding contracts the same way adults can, they can absolutely be sued for personal injury claims based on negligence. The challenge, however, is collecting compensation. That’s why it’s just as important to look at who else may be legally responsible.
Parental Responsibility After a Teen Driver Accident
When a teen under 18 applies for a driver’s license in California, they need a parent or legal guardian to sign the application. That signature means the parent agrees to take financial responsibility if the teen causes harm while driving. This isn’t just a moral obligation—it’s written into the law.
Under California Vehicle Code § 17707, a parent or guardian can be held financially liable for the damages caused by their teen driver. This concept is known as “vicarious liability,” and it makes it possible for injured victims to pursue compensation from the parent directly, not just the teen.
Here’s how it typically works:
- The teen is driving the family car.
- They cause an accident while distracted or driving recklessly.
- The injured party sues both the teen and the parent who signed the license application.
This liability remains in place until the teen turns 18 or the parent formally withdraws their signature from the DMV’s records.
Insurance Coverage and Teen Drivers
Most parents include their teen driver on their auto insurance policy. That coverage typically applies even if the teen causes an accident while driving the family car. This means you may be able to file a claim directly through the parents’ insurance.
In California, drivers must carry minimum liability coverage:
- $30,000 for injury or death to one person
- $60,000 for injury or death to more than one person
- $15,000 for property damage
Unfortunately, these limits may not be enough to cover serious injuries. That’s why it’s important to review every available policy. We help clients identify all possible sources of coverage, including:
- The teen’s auto insurance (if they have a separate policy)
- The parent’s policy
- Your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage
Insurance companies won’t always tell you what’s available, but we will.
What to Do After a Collision With a Teen Driver
If you’re hit by a teen driver, act quickly to protect your rights. Here are a few steps to take:
- Call the police so there’s an official report.
- Exchange information with the teen driver, including their insurance details.
- Take photos of both vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
- Get names and contact information for any witnesses.
- Note whether the teen was in a family vehicle or driving alone.
- Seek medical attention even if you feel okay. Some injuries take time to appear.
Then, talk to a personal injury attorney. We’ll start building your claim right away and preserve any time-sensitive evidence that could support your case.
Can You Recover Full Compensation?
You have a right to recover compensation after a car accident caused by a negligent teen driver. The key is showing fault and finding enough insurance coverage to cover your damages.
Compensation may include:
- Emergency care and ongoing medical expenses
- Lost wages or earning potential
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
If the teen was driving a parent’s car with permission, California law supports holding the parent liable as well. That significantly improves your chances of receiving a full and fair recovery.
Hold the Right Parties Accountable
When a teen driver causes an accident, you shouldn’t have to shoulder the financial and emotional burden alone. California law gives you a clear path to pursue compensation, and with the right legal guidance, you can take action against the responsible parties—whether that’s the teen, their parents, or their insurance provider.
At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we help injured clients recover what they’re owed after preventable accidents. If you’ve been hurt by a student or teen driver, contact us today for a free consultation. We’re ready to protect your rights and fight for the outcome you deserve.