Teen drivers, due to their inexperience and often reckless behavior, are statistically more likely to be involved in car accidents. This blog post aims to shed light on the safety and legal aspects surrounding teen driving accidents and how a Marietta car crash attorney can help if you were involved in such an incident.
Safety Concerns Involving Teen Drivers
Teen drivers are overrepresented in car accidents in Georgia due to their lack of driving experience and impulsive, thrill-seeking nature.Teenage drivers make up for 9% of all vehicle accidents on Georgia’s roads, according to Georgia Highway Safety statistics.
In 2020, 206 teen drivers were involved in fatal accidents in our state — a 22% increase over the previous year. The total medical costs involving teenage motor vehicle accidents amounted to $ 181 million over the same period. The highest number of teen car accidents is reported during the summer break – between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Measures to Combat Teen Driving Accidents
Georgia has implemented the Teenage & Adult Driver Responsibility Act (TADRA), a graduated driver’s license program for young drivers ages 15 to 18. This program involves an intense, three-step educational process that allows the young driver to gain more experience behind the wheel with certain restrictions in place.
As teens complete the requirements of their current permit or license, they are allowed to graduate to a less restrictive license and eventually receive a full unrestricted license. The Georgia Department of Driver Services encourages all teen drivers to put their phones down, buckle their seat belts, focus on driving, avoid alcohol or drugs, watch their speed, and stay safe.
Legal Aspects
In Georgia, the legal age to obtain a learner’s permit is 15, and teens must hold the permit for one year and one day before they can apply for an intermediate license. During this period, they must also complete 40 hours of supervised driving, including at least six hours at night.
Liability for a Car Accident With a Teenage Driver
In our state, teen drivers can be held liable for car accidents they cause. This liability is based on the legal principle of negligence, which requires all drivers, regardless of age, to exercise reasonable care when operating a vehicle. If a driver fails to exercise this care and causes an accident, they can be held responsible for any resulting damages.
For teen drivers, negligence can take many forms, including but not limited to, distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield, or violating any of the restrictions placed on their license by Georgia’s Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) laws.
Parents May Be Held Liable
It’s important to note that in Georgia, the parents or legal guardians of a teen driver can also be held liable for any accident that the teen causes. This is based on the legal doctrine of “vicarious liability,” which holds parents responsible for the actions of their minor children. However, this liability is typically limited to $10,000 in property damage and reasonable medical expenses incurred to another.
In addition to being held liable for damages, teen drivers who cause accidents may also face penalties under Georgia’s traffic laws, including fines, points on their driving record, and suspension of their license.
Contact a Marietta Car Accident Lawyer for Help
If you were involved in a teen driving accident in Georgia, it’s crucial to consult with a knowledgeable attorney at The Weinstein Law Firm. We can help you understand your rights and responsibilities under the law.
A Marietta car accident attorney can also help you navigate the complex process of dealing with insurance companies and seeking compensation for any damages. Contact us at 770-HELP-NOW for a free case review.
