A sudden crash involving a teenage driver can leave families shattered, victims injured, and many wondering, who is legally responsible when a teen causes an accident? The legal answer is not always straightforward. In Baltimore and throughout Maryland, liability can extend beyond the teen driver to include parents, guardians, and even third parties.
At Holzman & Dickriede, we understand that accidents involving young drivers often bring emotional complexity, legal confusion, and serious injuries. As experienced personal injury attorneys in Baltimore, we help accident victims and their families pursue justice while holding the proper parties accountable. According to attorney Ryan Dickriede, “Crashes caused by inexperienced drivers demand a careful legal review. Liability may rest with more than just the person behind the wheel.”
Let us explore what happens when a teen driver causes a crash, and what legal steps victims and families should take next.
Why Teen Drivers Are at Higher Risk for Car Accidents
Teen drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 are three times more likely than older drivers to be involved in a fatal crash, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Lack of experience, distractions, and impulsive decisions significantly contribute to these statistics.
In Maryland, teens can obtain a provisional license at age 16 and 6 months. Although restrictions are in place, including limits on nighttime driving and passenger capacity, accidents still occur. Baltimore’s busy roadways, such as Interstate 83 and the Jones Falls Expressway, as well as urban streets with heavy pedestrian traffic, increase the risks for novice drivers.
So, when an accident occurs, who is responsible for the resulting damage? Who gets sued? And how does Maryland law handle these sensitive cases?
Who Can Be Held Legally Liable?
When a teenager causes a car crash, liability does not always stop with them. Here are several potential parties who may be responsible:
1. The Teen Driver
If the teen has a valid license and is driving their own car, they may be directly liable for any accidents that occur. However, in Maryland, most minors do not have sufficient financial resources or insurance coverage to pay for accident-related damages.
2. The Teen’s Parents or Guardians
In many cases, parents can be held liable for their child’s actions. This is especially true under Maryland’s Family Purpose Doctrine, which holds that if a parent provides a vehicle for the general use and benefit of the family, and a teen uses that vehicle negligently, the parent may share legal responsibility.
Parents may also be liable under negligent entrustment laws, which apply if a parent allows their teen to drive despite knowing the teen is reckless, unlicensed, or otherwise unfit to operate a vehicle.
3. Vehicle Owners
If the vehicle involved in the crash is owned by someone other than the teen or their parents, such as a family friend or employer, that party may face liability under the doctrine of negligent entrustment.
4. Third Parties
In rare cases, entities such as schools or businesses may be held liable if the crash occurred during a sanctioned activity or while performing duties related to employment.
What Happens If the Teen Was Driving Illegally?
The situation becomes even more serious if the teen was driving without a license, breaking curfew, or violating the restrictions of their probationary license. In these scenarios, liability is compounded by the unlawful conduct.
Let us consider an example:
A 17-year-old driver in Baltimore is texting and runs a red light at Charles Street, striking another vehicle. The teen has three underage passengers, violating Maryland’s passenger limit for provisional license holders. In this case, the teen may be liable, and the parents could also be sued for failing to enforce driving rules.
What Damages Can Victims Recover?
If you were injured in a crash caused by a teen driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Future rehabilitation costs
Pursuing these claims involves more than proving the teen was at fault. It may require uncovering insurance coverage, evaluating parental liability, and negotiating with multiple parties.
Our team at Holzman & Dickriede brings a focused, compassionate approach to every case. “We aim to relieve the legal burden from the shoulders of victims so they can focus on healing,” says Ryan Dickriede, a dedicated Baltimore car accident lawyer with years of experience fighting for injury victims.
Does Insurance Cover Teen Driver Accidents?
In most cases, yes. If the teen is listed on a parent’s insurance policy, the insurer will typically provide coverage up to the policy limits. However, issues often arise regarding exclusions, policy gaps, or disputes about liability.
Maryland follows a fault-based system, which means the driver who caused the accident is financially responsible. Insurers will investigate the crash to determine liability, but victims should not rely solely on the insurance company’s findings. These entities are focused on minimizing payouts, not ensuring justice.
If you or your child is involved in an accident, speaking with an auto accident attorney in Baltimore, MD can help protect your legal interests.
Can Victims Sue the Parents Directly?
Yes, depending on the circumstances. Maryland law allows civil claims against parents if it can be shown that:
- They negligently entrusted the vehicle to the teen
- They failed to supervise or discipline the teen
- They allowed the teen to drive while intoxicated, distracted, or otherwise impaired
These cases can be emotionally charged, especially when family members or friends are involved. That is why it is essential to work with an experienced accident lawyer in Baltimore, Maryland, who understands how to handle these delicate matters with compassion and professionalism.
What Should Parents Know About Their Legal Risk?
If you are a parent of a teen driver in Baltimore, you must take proactive steps to reduce your legal exposure and protect your family. Consider the following:
- Do not allow your teen to drive unsupervised until they show responsible behavior
- Know who your child is driving with, where they are going, and whether they follow state license restrictions
- Set clear rules for cellphone use, curfews, and seat belts
- Make sure your auto insurance policy includes adequate liability coverage
In the words of Ryan Dickriede, “Being a responsible parent includes understanding your legal responsibilities. A single bad decision by your teen could result in years of litigation if safeguards are not in place.”
What Should You Do After a Crash Involving a Teen Driver?
Whether you are a parent, a teen, or a victim, here are steps to take after an accident:
- Call 911 and ensure everyone receives appropriate medical care.
- Document the scene with photographs, witness statements, and police reports.
- Exchange insurance and license information, including details of the teen’s parent or guardian.
- Avoid admitting fault or making speculative statements to insurance adjusters.
- Consult a qualified personal injury attorney in Baltimore to evaluate your case and advise you of your rights.
Speak With a Baltimore Injury Lawyer Today
At Holzman & Dickriede, we understand that accidents involving teen drivers are not just legal matters—they are deeply personal. Whether your family has been impacted or you were injured by a teen driver, we are here to help.
Our legal team has represented numerous victims of auto accidents and has established a reputation for excellence, dedication, and outstanding results. As your trusted Baltimore car accident lawyer, Ryan Dickriede brings a deep understanding of Maryland’s laws, a commitment to justice, and a personal approach to every case.
Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and let us help you safeguard your rights, health, and future.
