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Teen Driver Accidents

Teen drivers are more likely to be involved in car accidents due to their inexperience and still-developing driving skills. But inexperience cannot excuse recklessness and negligence.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident caused by a teen driver, the experienced attorneys at The Porter Law Group are here to help.

New York Attorneys Advocating for Victims of Teen Driver Accidents

We all have to start somewhere. And we cannot fault youngsters, who at the first legal opportunity, immediately get behind a steering wheel to get that taste of freedom and independence that riding a vehicle may bring. 

But all drivers are obliged to abide by traffic rules and regulations. They have a duty of care towards other commuters and pedestrians who share the roads. If you were severely injured by a teen driver in New York, you may be entitled to more than just the compensation insurance gets you. 

The skilled legal team at The Porter Law Group understands the unique challenges that arise in accidents involving teen drivers. We have extensive experience in all types of personal injury cases and vehicular accidents, and will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com.

What Causes Teen Driving Accidents?

Teen drivers are at a higher risk of causing accidents for several possible reasons, including:

  • Lack of driving experience
  • Inability to properly judge stopping distances
  • Distracted driving, such as texting while behind the wheel
  • Speeding and reckless driving
  • Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

According to a study, New York ranked 15th in terms of most fatal teen driving accidents in 2022 with a 41.6% fatality rate. This happened in the summer months of June to September when these new drivers often test the roads for the first time. Despite being only 1 out of 20 drivers, teen drivers were involved in 13% of all fatal car crashes. 

What Type of Damages Can Be Recovered in a Vehicular Accident involving Teen Drivers?

New York is a “no-fault” insurance state that requires a $50,000 minimum Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Insurance for all vehicles. This means that regardless of who is at fault, you will receive compensation from the insurance company in limited amounts for the following:

  • Medical bills
  • Psychiatric services
  • Rehabilitation
  • Lost earnings 
  • Expenses for daily tasks
  • Funeral and burial expenses in cases of death

However, these are not automatically given to you. You must be aware of the following deadlines and requirements to file your claims with your insurance carrier:

  • Medical Claims: 45 days after you start treatment for the necessary documents 
  • Lost wages: 90 days from the accident to submit written proof of lost earnings
  • Undergo independent medical exams (depending on your insurance provider)

What if I Was Severely Injured During a Teen Driver Accident? 

The PIP requirement was instituted so that when an accident occurs, regardless of who was at fault, one can immediately receive compensation for medical bills and other losses without clogging up the courts. Lawsuits are typically not allowed for common vehicular accidents. 

However, there is an exception to this rule. This is in cases of severe injury as defined by section 5102(d) of New York’s insurance law, which involves incidences such as: 

  • Death
  • Dismemberment
  • Significant disfigurement
  • Fracture
  • Loss of a fetus
  • Permanent disability or organ and limb damage
  • Significant limb or organ damage
  • Injuries which cause significant disability for more than 90 days of the 180 days following the accident

If you meet this threshold, you will have up to 3 years to file a lawsuit. An accident victim can waive the right to file an insurance claim and opt instead to sue the driver at fault. 

However, this is complicated. Teens are not eligible to stand trial under normal circumstances. But you may be able to sue the parents, under the legal principles of ‘negligent entrustment’ and the ‘family car doctrine’. You will need an experienced personal injury lawyer who can manage the case, investigate, and communicate with the parties involved. 

The Porter Law Group has decades of collective experience in dealing with personal injury cases involving vehicular accidents in the State of New York. Our lawyers have recovered millions of dollars* for vehicular accident victims, and we stand ready to help bring you and your family the answers and financial compensation you deserve.

What Type of Damages Can I Recover if I Opt To Sue for Severe Injuries in a Teen Driving Accident?

Should you opt out of the insurance claim and choose to pursue legal action, you may be able to receive compensation in a teen driving accident in New York for the following:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering
  • Disability
  • Loss of earning potential 
  • Trauma

Contact a New York Teen Driving Accident Attorney Today

Whether you’re dealing with insurance claims, suing for severe injuries, or negotiating a settlement, navigating the legal process in the State of New York can be challenging. Especially when you're already coping with the aftermath of an accident.

At The Porter Law Group, our experienced teen driver accident lawyers understand the complexities of these cases. We will thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident, gather evidence to build a strong case, and tenaciously advocate for your rights. Our goal is to help you recover the full compensation you need and deserve for your injuries and losses.

Get in touch with us at 833-PORTER9 or email us at info@porterlawteam.com to schedule your free case evaluation today. Let us put our knowledge, skills, and resources to work for you and fight for the compensation you need to move forward after a devastating accident.

Last Updated on July 3, 2024 by Michael S. Porter
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