Being in a car accident involving a teenage driver can be distressing. At Kaire & Heffernan, we understand the unique challenges that arise from these specific types of collisions. Our compassionate and experienced car accident attorneys are here to help you navigate the aftermath and fight for the compensation you deserve.
We know how to investigate the circumstances of the crash and hold all negligent parties accountable. If you have been injured, it is important to seek legal counsel who has experience with teen driving accidents in Miami to ensure your rights are protected.
Inexperience is one of the biggest factors contributing to accidents with young drivers. New drivers have not had enough time behind the wheel to develop the defensive driving skills needed to anticipate and react to unexpected road hazards. This inexperience is often combined with other dangerous behaviors that significantly increase the risk of a crash. Some of the most common causes we see include distracted driving, speeding, and impaired driving.
Distracted driving, particularly texting or using social media, is a major problem among younger drivers. Taking their eyes off the road for even a few seconds can have devastating consequences. Speeding is another common issue, as teens may not fully appreciate the dangers of excessive speed or may be susceptible to peer pressure. When we investigate crashes caused by young drivers in Miami, we look for evidence of these behaviors, such as cellphone records or eyewitness testimony, to build a strong case for negligence.
To address the risks associated with inexperienced drivers, the state has implemented a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program. These laws place specific restrictions on teen drivers to help them gain experience in lower-risk conditions. The GDL system has three stages: the learner’s permit, the intermediate license, and the full-privilege license. Each stage comes with its own set of rules regarding supervision, driving hours, and the number of passengers allowed in the vehicle.
For example, a 16-year-old with an intermediate license is restricted from driving between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. unless driving to or from work or accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old. If a teen driver was violating one of these GDL restrictions at the time of the crash, it can serve as powerful evidence of negligence. Our attorneys are well-versed in the specifics of these laws and will determine if a violation occurred in your Miami car accident involving a teenager. Proving that the teen was driving unlawfully can strengthen your claim and help establish liability.
When a minor causes a car accident, the question of who is financially responsible can be complicated. While the teen driver is at fault, they typically do not have the financial resources to cover the significant damages that can result from a serious crash. Parents or guardians can often be held legally responsible for the actions of their minor children under a legal principle known as vicarious liability.
Specifically, the dangerous instrumentality doctrine in Florida states that the owner of a motor vehicle is liable for the damages caused by anyone who operates the vehicle with the owner’s consent. This means if a parent allows their teenager to drive the family car, the parent can be held responsible for any accidents the teen causes. When pursuing legal claims against teenage drivers after a collision in Miami, we typically file the claim against the vehicle’s owner—usually the parent—to access their auto insurance policy. This is often the most effective way to ensure you can recover the full compensation you need for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Dealing with the aftermath of a car accident is difficult enough without the added complexities of a case involving a minor. You need a legal team that understands the nuances of these claims and is prepared to advocate for your best interests. At Kaire & Heffernan, we will handle all the legal details, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies, so you can focus on your recovery.
Do not let the uncertainty of your situation prevent you from seeking the justice you deserve. Contact our office today for a free, no-obligation consultation with an attorney experienced in cases involving teen driving accidents in Miami. Let us demonstrate how we can fight for your rights.
(305) 876-6001