Teen Driver Accidents in San Angelo: A Parent’s Legal Guide

Teen drivers face unique challenges on the road, and their inexperience can lead to serious accidents. As a parent in San Angelo, understanding your legal responsibilities, potential liability, and insurance considerations is crucial. This guide covers Texas teen driving laws, parental liability, accident response steps, and legal options to protect your teen and your family.

Understanding Texas Teen Driving Laws

Texas enforces specific laws to regulate teen driving and reduce accidents. Parents must be aware of these regulations to ensure their teen drivers remain compliant and safe.

The Texas Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program

Texas implements a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program to introduce driving privileges in phases, allowing teens to develop experience before receiving full driving rights.

• Learner License (Ages 15-17)
  • Teens must pass a written test and complete driver education.
  • They can only drive with a licensed adult (21+) in the front seat.
• Provisional License (Ages 16-17)
  • Requires six months with a learner license.
  • Restrictions include:
    • No driving between midnight and 5 a.m. unless for school, work, or emergencies.
    • No more than one passenger under 21 (excluding family members).
    • No phone use while driving, including hands-free devices.
• Full License (Ages 18+)
  • All restrictions are lifted, provided there are no traffic violations.

Why These Laws Matter

Breaking these laws can result in fines, license suspension, and higher insurance costs. Parents must ensure their teens follow all regulations to avoid legal and financial consequences.

Parental Liability in Teen Driver Accidents

Texas law holds parents accountable for their teen’s driving behavior in several ways. If a teen causes an accident, parents could face legal and financial consequences.

Negligent Entrustment and Parental Responsibility

Under Texas negligent entrustment laws, parents may be held liable if they knowingly allow an incompetent or reckless teen to drive. To prove liability, the following must be established:

1. The parent owned the vehicle involved in the accident.
2. The parent allowed the teen to drive the vehicle.
3. The teen was reckless, unlicensed, or incompetent.
4. The accident was caused by the teen’s negligence.
5. The parent’s decision to allow the teen to drive was a direct factor in the accident.

Financial and Legal Consequences

Parents could face lawsuits for damages, including:

• Medical bills and rehabilitation costs of injured parties.
• Property damage expenses.
• Wrongful death claims in fatal accidents.

Additionally, Texas law imposes parental responsibility for property damage caused by minors. If a teen causes damage while driving irresponsibly, parents may be required to cover repair costs.

Insurance Considerations for Teen Drivers

Proper insurance coverage is essential for protecting both the teen driver and the family in case of an accident.

Adding a Teen to Your Auto Insurance Policy

• Teens must be added to a family policy once they obtain a learner’s permit or license.
• Failure to list a teen driver could result in denied claims if an accident occurs.

How Much Does Insurance Cost for Teen Drivers?

• Teen drivers are high-risk, leading to higher premiums.
• The average premium increase for adding a teen driver is 50-100%.

Ways to Reduce Insurance Costs

Many insurers offer discounts to help reduce costs:

• Good Student Discounts: Maintaining a B average or higher can lower rates.
• Driver Safety Courses: Completing an approved defensive driving course may qualify for discounts.
• Safe Vehicle Choices: Driving a car with advanced safety features can lower premiums.

What Happens if a Teen Driver is Uninsured?

If a teen drives without insurance and causes an accident:

• The parent may be held financially responsible for damages.
• The teen may lose their license.
• The family could face legal consequences for allowing an uninsured driver on the road.

Preventing Teen Driver Accidents

Proactive steps can help reduce the likelihood of your teen being involved in an accident.

Setting Clear Driving Rules

Establish firm rules to promote safe driving habits:

• No texting or phone use while driving.
• Follow all speed limits and traffic laws.
• Avoid late-night driving to reduce risk.
• Zero tolerance for drinking and driving.

Using Technology to Monitor Driving Behavior

Several apps and tracking devices can help parents monitor their teen’s driving habits:

• Life360: Tracks speed, phone usage, and location.
• Bouncie: Provides real-time driving alerts.
• Dashcams: Record footage of driving behavior for review.

Encouraging Responsible Behavior

• Set a good example by following traffic laws.
• Enforce a parent-teen driving contract with clear rules and consequences.
• Reward safe driving habits with incentives, such as reduced restrictions.

What to Do if Your Teen is in an Accident

Accidents can be stressful, but knowing the right steps can protect your teen legally and financially.

Immediate Steps After a Teen Driver Accident

1. Ensure Safety: Move to a safe location and check for injuries.
2. Call 911: Report the accident to law enforcement.
3. Exchange Information: Collect details from all involved drivers.
4. Document the Scene: Take photos of damage, road conditions, and vehicle positions.
5. Notify Insurance: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible.
6. Seek Medical Attention: Even minor injuries should be checked by a doctor.

Handling Legal and Insurance Issues

If the accident involves:

• Injuries or fatalities – Consult a personal injury lawyer in San Angelo.
• Disputed fault – An attorney can help protect your teen’s rights.
• Insurance claim issues – A lawyer can negotiate a fair settlement.

When to Seek Legal Help

Some accidents require legal assistance to avoid severe consequences.

When You Should Contact a Lawyer

• Your teen is at fault and facing a lawsuit.
• The insurance company denies or underpays a claim.
• Another driver is falsely blaming your teen for the accident.
• The accident involved a DUI or reckless driving charge.

How a Lawyer Can Help

• Defend against liability claims.
• Negotiate settlements with insurance companies.
• Represent your teen in court if needed.

Conclusion

Teen driving comes with risks, but understanding Texas laws, parental liability, and insurance responsibilities can help protect your family. Setting clear driving rules, securing proper insurance, and knowing what to do after an accident can reduce legal and financial stress.

If your teen is involved in a serious accident, consulting with a San Angelo car accident lawyer can provide the legal support you need. At Webb, Stokes & Sparks, our dedicated team has over 160 years of combined experience in personal injury law, ensuring you receive the knowledgeable representation you deserve. We operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe nothing unless we secure compensation for you.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice.