If My Child Is Driving And An Accident Occurs, Am I Liable?
It all depends on the state in which you live and whether they recognize the family purpose doctrine. In some state, if you allow your child that is of legal age to drive and has a valid driver’s license, you may be liable if he/she is involved in a car accident. The family purpose doctrine states that the head of the family that has a car for the general use of the family may be held responsible if a family member was driving negligently and was at fault during an automobile accident.
There are of course, various reasons that can cause an accident and if your child was not the “at fault” driver, you may not be responsible for damages. An accident lawyer that understands the laws governing your state will be able to explain what your liability for your child driving as well as represent you in negotiation with the insurance company or in case of a civil or criminal court case. If there were injuries in the accident, you may also wish to talk with a lawyer that can handle both civil and criminal cases that involve not only car accidents but personal injuries as well.
There may have been other circumstances that caused the accident besides a minor behind the wheel, be sure you contact a car accident attorney so you can know your rights as well as know the rights of your minor child to ensure that you can receive compensation for any damages or injuries that may have occurred as well.
|