For many families in Missouri, a teenager getting their driver’s license is both a proud moment and a cause for worry. While teens feel excited about their new independence, they are more likely to be in car accidents than any other age group. Inexperience, distractions, and risky behaviors often contribute to these crashes, which can create complicated legal issues for victims and their families.
Missouri law addresses these situations by focusing on personal responsibility, parental involvement, and insurance rules to protect both the public and young drivers. If you or your child has been in an accident involving a teen driver—whether as the driver, a passenger, or another person involved—it’s important to know your rights. The Drafahl Law Firm is here to help Missouri residents navigate these challenging situations and pursue justice through experienced legal representation.
Teen Drivers and Missouri’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) System
Missouri’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system helps teens learn to drive safely. It starts at age 15 with a learner’s permit, allowing them to drive only with a licensed adult. At 16, they can get an intermediate license but must follow rules like not driving late at night (1:00 a.m. to 5:00 a.m.) and limiting young passengers.
If teens break GDL rules, it can affect traffic tickets and insurance claims after accidents. For example, if a teen crashes while violating curfew or having too many friends in the car, this can show negligence and make it easier to prove fault, impacting how insurance companies and courts handle the situation.
Who Is Liable When a Teen Driver Causes an Accident?
While teen drivers are legally accountable for the accidents they cause, liability doesn’t stop with them, especially if they are minors. Missouri law allows victims to pursue compensation not only from the teen’s insurance coverage but also from the parent or guardian who owns the vehicle. If the parent knew the teen was reckless, unqualified, or had a history of unsafe driving and still allowed them behind the wheel, the parent could be held liable under a concept known as negligent entrustment.
Additionally, parents are typically listed as the primary policyholders on auto insurance plans that cover teen drivers. If the damages exceed the teen’s personal policy limits, the family’s umbrella insurance or homeowner’s insurance may also come into play. In high-value claims involving serious injuries or multiple victims, exploring all these financial resources is essential for securing adequate compensation.
Insurance Requirements for Teen Drivers in Missouri
All drivers in Missouri, including teenagers, must have the state’s minimum liability insurance. This means they need $25,000 for bodily injury per person, $50,000 for bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 for property damage. Because teen drivers are typically at a higher risk, families should consider increasing their coverage or buying umbrella policies to protect against larger losses.
Insurance is especially important after an accident. If a teen driver is found at fault and the damages go beyond their insurance limits, the victim can sue for the extra costs. If the teen does not have enough insurance, the injured party may need to rely on their own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage. A knowledgeable attorney can help review available policies to find where compensation can be sought.
Comparative Fault and Teen Drivers
Missouri’s pure comparative fault system allows multiple parties to share blame for an accident. If a teen driver causes a crash, the court will review everyone’s actions. For instance, if the injured person was speeding or didn’t signal, their compensation may be reduced based on their fault.
This system aims for fairness but can complicate recovery. If a teen is 70% at fault, they can still collect 30% of their damages from the other party. Victims must also be prepared to defend their actions. In teen driver cases, understanding the full context, for example, any license violations or inexperience, is key to a successful claim.
What If the Teen Was Driving a Friend’s Car?
Teen drivers often borrow cars from friends or family. If they get into a crash, figuring out who is responsible for insurance can be tricky. Usually, the car owner’s insurance is the main policy that covers the accident, followed by any coverage the driver may have.
If the car owner was careless in lending their car, like letting an unlicensed or drunk teen drive, they might be held responsible under a rule called negligent entrustment. Issues can also come up if the driver used the car without permission or if there are overlapping insurance policies. These situations can be complex, and a qualified attorney can help clarify the insurance and legal responsibilities to ensure that victims receive full compensation.
Injured Teen Drivers: Can They File a Claim?
Teen drivers injured in crashes caused by others can seek compensation, just like adults. They can file claims for medical expenses, emotional distress, future care, and lost earning potential.
Since minors can’t start lawsuits, a parent or guardian must file for them. In serious cases, the court may require oversight to ensure the settlement is in the child’s best interest. This can delay the process, so getting legal help early is important.
Criminal and Civil Consequences for Reckless Teen Driving
If a teen driver does something very dangerous, like texting while driving, racing, or driving under the influence, they could face criminal charges and civil liability. Possible charges include reckless driving, DUI, or even vehicular assault, depending on what happened and how serious the injuries are.
Criminal charges aim to punish and discourage bad behavior, but they also affect civil cases. If the driver is convicted or pleads guilty, it can strengthen the victim’s personal injury claim. This outcome can show that the driver was negligent or did something wrong. Victims can use this information to support their case during settlements or trials.
Legal Help for Teen-Related Car Accidents in Missouri
Accidents involving teen drivers often result in serious injuries and complex legal issues. Whether you’re a parent of an injured minor or a victim of negligence, understanding your rights is crucial.
A skilled legal firm can help you evaluate insurance coverage, identify responsible parties, and build a strong case. Don’t navigate this challenging situation alone—consulting with an experienced team can help protect your future.
