Whether it stems from a lack of driving experience, a childish tendency to be reckless behind the wheel, or a combination of both, teen drivers are statistically more likely to get into traffic accidents compared to fully grown adults. On top of that, taking legal action over a crash caused by a teenager can be uniquely complicated as well, since they often do not personally own the vehicle they were operating at the time of the wreck.
Our team of seasoned Reno car accident lawyers at Shook & Stone could help you pursue fair financial recovery after a teen driving accident in Reno. Once retained, our dedicated legal professionals could make sure your rights are respected and your best interests are protected.
Rules for Teen Drivers Set by State Law
In Nevada, no one under the age of 18 can apply for or receive a standard driver’s license without any restrictions attached to it. However, teenagers can apply for a driving permit once they reach the age of 15 years and six months old, with which they can operate a motor vehicle while accompanied by a licensed driver at least 21 years of age who has had an unrestricted license for at least one year prior.
According to our Reno personal injury lawyer, a teenager can apply for a minor’s license, which allows them to drive by themselves, once they:
- Turn 16 years old
- Have had a driving permit for at least six months without violating any traffic laws or getting into any accidents in Reno or elsewhere
- Have completed a specific number of practice hours behind the wheel as well as a driving test administrated by the Motor Vehicle Division of the state Department of Transportation
However, they are still prohibited from driving between 10 PM and 5 AM with a minor’s license. With exceptions made for immediate family members, they cannot carry passengers under 18 for the first six months after receiving their minor’s license.
Are Parents Liable for Accidents Caused by Their Kids?
In addition to all the other prerequisite conditions mentioned above, teen drivers in Reno must have a parent’s or guardian’s endorsement before receiving a driving permit or minor’s license. This endorsement extends civil liability for any accident caused by that teen driver in Reno to the endorsing parent(s) or guardian(s), which means holding that adult financially accountable for ensuing losses is typically possible.
Alternatively, suppose a parent, guardian, or anyone else knowingly allows a teenager to drive their vehicle despite having reason to expect that the teenager might act irresponsibly behind the wheel. In that case, they may be legally liable for damages from an ensuing wreck based on “negligent entrustment.” Either way, our skilled Shook & Stone car accident lawyers could help seek restitution for both economic and non-economic consequences of a crash caused by a teen driver in Reno through insurance claims, third-party litigation, or a combination of both.
A Reno Attorney Can Help Take Legal Action After a Teen Driving Accident
While not all teenagers are careless behind the wheel, the fact is that many of them are, and the crashes they cause often end up resulting in very serious injuries. If you have been hurt under circumstances like this, you should strongly consider speaking to a lawyer sooner rather than later if you want to obtain fair financial compensation for the harm you have unfairly sustained.
Teen driving accidents in Reno can be much easier to handle with assistance from qualified legal representation. Call Shook & Stone today to schedule a free consultation.
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