Are Teen Drivers Actually More Dangerous Than Other Drivers?

Insuring a teenage driver is expensive for a reason. According to the CDC, teen drivers aged 16 to 19 have a crash rate three times higher than drivers over 20. If a teen hits the road before they are fully ready, they may act negligently, causing severe accidents and significant injuries to themselves and others. If you were hit by a teen driver or have a child who just got their license, understanding the dangers of teenage driving is essential. And believe it or not, the fact that a driver does not have a license may not be admissible in court unless you have knowledgeable legal representation.

The skilled legal team at Knutson + Casey is dedicated to helping accident victims in Minnesota understand their rights and legal options, and pursuing drivers who should not be on the roadway, and their insurance companies. Our attorneys have three decades of experience representing accident victims and achieved thousands of favorable outcomes. We take an innovative approach to every case and have a proven track record of helping our clients recover the maximum compensation available for their injuries and other losses. We have the experience and skills necessary to fight aggressively for justice on your behalf, against bad drivers and their insurance companies. 

Teen Driving Behaviors That Put Themselves and Others at Risk in Minnesota

While no two collisions involving teenagers are exactly alike, many are caused by similar careless or reckless behavior. Understanding the risks associated with teen driving helps teach your child safe driving habits while knowing what to expect when you see a young driver on the road. A few risky teen driving behaviors include the following:

• Inexperience and lack of familiarity with driving laws
• Distractions such as texting while driving
• Driving with several teen passengers who may cause distractions
• Speeding
• Driving at night
• Driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol 
• Other reckless or risky driving behaviors

If a teen driver engages in any of the above behaviors and causes an accident, they may be held liable through a personal injury claim. While most teenagers do not have the capital to compensate a victim for their injuries and other losses, they are likely covered by their parent’s car insurance, and their parents could be negligent for negligence entrusting (allowing the teen to use the car) the vehicle to them.  After being injured in an accident with a teen driver, an experienced attorney will investigate the cause of your accident and work to establish liability and insurance coverage on your behalf. 

What Are Minnesota’s Teen Driving Laws?

Since teen driving accidents occur all too frequently, Minnesota has several laws to protect the safety of young drivers and others on the road. These restrictions are as follows:

• Driving between the hours of midnight and 5 a.m. is prohibited in the first six months after receiving their license unless they are driving to work and back or are accompanied by a driver over the age of 25
• Driving with only one passenger under the age of 20 at a time during the first six months of licensure unless they are supervised by a parent or guardian
• Using a cell phone while driving, including hands-free features, is prohibited for all drivers under 18

Additionally, Minnesota has strict laws for minors who drive under the influence of drugs and alcohol. Although adults may drive with a blood alcohol concentration under 0.08%, any alcohol in a minor’s system is forbidden while behind the wheel. 

Contact a Trusted Car Accident Attorney at Knutson + Casey

At Knutson + Casey, our experienced auto accident attorneys understand the unique dangers associated with teenage driving accidents, and are ready to use their extensive experience and skills to fight for you. When you partner with us, you can trust your attorney to meticulously investigate every detail of your accident, and work to build a solid claim on your behalf. We often go to the other driver’s vehicle and pull the black box from it.

If you have been injured by a teen driver, call us today at (507) 344-8888 or complete our contact form to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team.