Teen Driving Accidents in Fullerton

Young drivers—particularly teenagers—are far more likely to be involved in accidents than the rest of the population. This is due to a few factors, including immaturity and inexperience. The unfortunate reality is that when these young motorists make a mistake behind the wheel, the resulting injuries can be devastating.

If you have questions about compensation for injuries sustained in teen driving accidents in Fullerton, our attorneys could review your case and explain your legal options. A personal injury lawsuit could help provide for the physical, financial, and emotional losses you sustained in the crash.

Why Are Teen Drivers More Likely To Cause Accidents?

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to cause accidents because they lack the experience and judgment that comes with time behind the wheel. Driving is a skill that improves with practice, but these gains take time. The reality is that younger drivers often struggle to anticipate hazards, gauge distances, and react appropriately to sudden changes in traffic.

Risk-taking behavior also plays a role. Teens are more likely to speed, follow other vehicles too closely, or engage in distracting behaviors such as texting and talking with friends while driving. While many young people make bad decisions behind the wheel on their own, peer pressure can amplify this risk. Additionally, teens may underestimate the consequences of reckless decisions, believing they are prepared to deal with issues that, in reality, pose a serious risk of harm.

Combined, these factors dramatically increase the risk of a crash. Our Fullerton attorneys could advise you on pursuing a personal injury claim in the aftermath of a motor vehicle accident resulting from a teen driver’s negligence.

Liability for Teen Drivers

The person responsible for an auto accident is generally liable for paying for the damage they cause. The question of liability is more complicated for teen drivers. Before someone under the age of 18 can legally drive, either a parent or guardian must sign a consent form accepting parental liability for their actions.

In Fullerton, you have the option to seek damages from their legal guardians if a teenage motorist’s negligence causes an auto wreck that impacts you. This is especially important in cases where the liability insurance policy is not enough to pay for your damages.

It is also possible for a teen driver’s parents or guardians to face vicarious liability when they have been negligent in allowing the teen to drive their vehicle. Negligence could apply when they know the young person is impaired in some way or does not have a driver’s license.

Time Limits on Pursuing Compensation

State law applies time limits to any personal injury claim. If you wait too long to pursue your case against the teen motorist who caused your accident in Fullerton, you could violate the statute of limitations.

The statute of limitations is the deadline that applies to civil lawsuits, and the courts strictly enforce this deadline. You generally have two years from the date of the crash to either file your lawsuit or reach a settlement with the responsible party. If you wait too long, the courts could bar you from ever getting the compensation you deserve.

Talk to an Attorney in Fullerton About Teen Motorist Accidents

We help our clients deal with the aftermath of teen driving accidents in Fullerton. We could negotiate a settlement out of court on your behalf or argue your case in court. When you rely on the skill and experience of our firm, you give yourself the chance to maximize your financial recovery.

Let our team of experienced attorneys serve as your advocate. Reach out as soon as possible to discuss your case during a free and confidential initial consultation.