What Should You Do If You’re Injured By A Teen Driver In Florida

Being injured by a teen driver in Florida can raise unique questions for accident victims. While teenagers may have less driving experience, they are held to the same legal standards as adults. In addition, Florida law places certain responsibilities on parents and vehicle owners when minors are behind the wheel. This article discusses…

• Common questions about liability when a teen driver hits you.
• How insurance and licensing could impact your case.
• Why having an experienced attorney can be especially important to teen driver accident claims.

Are Teen Drivers Held To The Same Legal Standards As Adults In Florida?

Yes. In Florida, teenage drivers are held to the same legal standards as adults. They do not receive special treatment simply because of their age or lack of experience. All licensed drivers are expected to follow the same rules of the road.

Additionally, Florida law requires that an adult agree to act as a guarantor for any driver under 18. That adult assumes joint and several liability for the teen’s negligence until the child reaches the age of majority.

How Does Florida’s “Dangerous Instrumentality Doctrine” Apply To Teen Drivers?

The dangerous instrumentality doctrine applies equally to teens and adults. This doctrine makes the owner of a vehicle liable for negligence committed by anyone driving it with permission. In cases involving teenagers, this often comes into play when a teen drives a parent’s car. If an accident occurs, both the teenage driver and the vehicle’s owner may be legally responsible.

Can My Claim Be Affected If The Teen Had A Learner’s Permit Or Provisional License?

A teen with a learner’s permit in Florida is held to the same legal standard as any licensed driver. They are fully responsible for any negligence while operating a vehicle. The vehicle owner and the guarantor who signed for the minor are also legally accountable for damages if an accident occurs.

Christopher Russo, founding attorney of Russo Law in Lakeland, Florida, has over 15 years of experience handling car accident cases involving teenage drivers and their families.

He understands the added complexities these cases present, including issues of parental liability, insurance coverage, and Florida’s dangerous instrumentality doctrine. Having successfully represented numerous clients in accidents caused by minors, Christopher Russo knows how to identify every available avenue of compensation.

If you’ve been injured by a teen driver in Lakeland, Winter Haven, Bartow, Haines City, Davenport, Championsgate, or Lake Wales, contact Russo Law today for trusted guidance and dedicated representation.

Are Settlements Involving Teen Drivers Typically More Difficult To Resolve?

Generally, settlements involving teen drivers are no different than those with adult drivers. Liability rules remain the same. However, one challenge that may arise is insurance coverage. Teenage drivers, particularly if they have their own separate insurance policies, may carry lower coverage limits than more experienced drivers.

Why Is Hiring An Experienced Attorney Critical When Minors Are Involved?

Hiring an experienced attorney is especially important when teenage drivers are involved in accidents. These cases can involve multiple layers of liability, including:

• The teen driver’s own negligence
• The adult guarantor’s responsibility
• The vehicle owner’s liability under the dangerous instrumentality doctrine

An attorney can help you identify all potential sources of compensation and ensure you pursue every avenue available.

Still Have Questions? Ready To Get Started?

For more information on being injured by a teen driver in Florida, an initial consultation is your next best step. Get the information and legal answers you are seeking by calling (863) 201-5918 today.