« All FAQ About Drunk Driving Accidents

Can I recover damages if the drunk driver was a minor?

If you have been involved in a car crash with a drunk driver who happens to be a minor, you may be wondering if you can still recover damages for your injuries. The answer is, it depends on the circumstances of the case. Here are some things you should know:

  1. Liability: Even though the driver is a minor, they can still be held liable for the crash  if they were driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In fact, it is illegal for a minor to consume or purchase alcohol. So, if the minor was driving while under the influence, they may face both criminal and civil liability for their actions.
  2. Parents’ Liability: In some cases, the minor’s parents or legal guardians may also be held liable for the accident. This is because, as the minor’s legal guardians, they have a responsibility to supervise their child’s actions and prevent them from engaging in reckless behavior. If they fail to do so, they may be held responsible for any damages resulting from the crash.
  3. Insurance Coverage: Whether or not you can recover damages from the minor or their parents could depend on their insurance coverage. If the minor has their own insurance policy, it may provide coverage for the damages caused by the collision.  However, if the minor is covered under their parents’ insurance policy, the coverage may depend on whether or not the parents knew or should have known that their child was driving under the influence.
  4. Recovery of Damages: If you are able to establish liability, you may be able to recover damages for your injuries, including medical expenses and pain and suffering. In some cases, you may also be able to recover punitive damages, which are intended to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior.

If you have been involved in a collision with a drunk driver who is a minor, it is important to seek the advice of an experienced personal injury attorney. An attorney can help you determine your legal options and protect your rights. The Ruth Law Team has extensive experience in handling personal injury cases, including those involving drunk driving crashes. Contact us at (888) 783-8378 to schedule a free consultation.

You can also visit us by appointment at one of our Florida Law Offices, Minnesota Law Offices, or Georgia Law Offices.

Please note that the answers to each question may vary depending on the specific facts of your case, and it is always best to consult with an attorney to get more accurate information. Also, this is general information and not legal advice.

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