A split-second decision by a teen driver can change lives forever. For Filipino-American families in California, even a minor motor vehicle accident can lead to overwhelming medical bills, ongoing insurance claims, and costly vehicle damage.
Teen drivers are almost three times more likely to be in a deadly crash than drivers aged 20 and older, for every mile they drive. While youth and inexperience may be factors, the law still holds an at-fault driver accountable.
This guide will help you understand what steps to take, how to gather strong physical evidence, and what role an attorney can play in proving fault in a car accident.
Why Teen Drivers Are More Likely to Cause Accidents
According to reports from the CDC, teen drivers are more likely than older drivers to make dangerous decisions behind the wheel. These include speeding, leaving little space between vehicles, and failing to follow basic traffic laws. The crash risk increases even more when a teenage passenger, especially another male, is in the car.
The CDC also notes that teens are more affected by alcohol than adults, even at lower levels that fall below the legal limit. Alarmingly, more than half of teen drivers and passengers killed in crashes were not wearing seat belts at the time. These choices often lead to traffic violations, accident injuries, or devastating fatal crashes.
Understanding how these patterns contribute to accidents is essential for the injured party. This context can help show that the teen’s behavior played a direct role in causing the crash, and that accountability is necessary.
Common Types of Teen Driver Negligence
Identifying how the teen’s actions led to the crash is key to any case. Below are some common types of negligence seen in motor vehicle crashes:
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Texting or using a phone while driving
- Running stop signs or red lights
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Failing to yield the right of way
These behaviors often result in rear-end collisions or intersection crashes—two of the most frequent accidents caused by young drivers. If the teen is found to be the at-fault driver, their parents may also be held legally responsible for the damages caused.
Maraming aksidente ang nangyayari dahil sa kawalan ng karanasan o kapabayaan. Hindi sapat na ‘bata pa’ ang driver—may pananagutan sila sa batas.
How to Prove That the Teen Was the Responsible Party
Successfully holding a negligent driver accountable begins with collecting solid documentation that shows they were the responsible party. You must legally prove fault and connect it directly to the incident. Here’s how to start:
1. Document Everything at the Scene
Take photos of the accident, vehicle positions, and any property damage. If you or a loved one is hurt, document physical injuries immediately. If available, retrieve dashcam footage and gather contact details from any witnesses.
2. Get a Copy of the Police Report
Police reports often indicate who the responding officer believes was at fault. These reports can provide insights into reckless behavior, like running a red light or texting while driving. Officers may also issue citations or note signs of intoxication, which is critical for proving fault in a car accident.
3. Seek Medical Care Immediately
Even if injuries appear minor, always get checked by a healthcare provider. Medical records serve as evidence of injury and help support your personal injury claims. This is essential not just for your health but also for your accident claim.
4. Consult an Experienced Accident Attorney
A Los Angeles car accident attorney can assess your case, speak with insurance providers, and guide you through each step. Legal professionals can leverage physical evidence, witness testimony, and documentation to establish fault and pursue maximum compensation.
What Accident Victims Should Avoid
If you or your child is the injured person, it’s just as important to know what not to do:
- Don’t negotiate directly with the insurance company: Their goal is to limit payouts, not protect your rights.
- Don’t delay seeking medical care: A gap in treatment may weaken your claim.
- Don’t post about the accident on social media: Even innocent comments can be misinterpreted and used against you.
Protecting Your Rights, Guiding Your Recovery
Being involved in a traffic accident with a teen driver can leave families facing severe injury, stress, and a lasting financial burden. If you or a loved one has been hurt, you don’t have to handle it alone.
Our trusted Los Angeles car accident attorney can help crash victims understand their rights, deal with the insurance adjuster, and fight for fair compensation. If you’re a parent, we also encourage teaching safe driving habits early on to help prevent future accidents.
Reach out to our team today. Consultations are free; we only get paid when we win your case.
