Honing a skill takes practice, and that includes driving. That is why California adopted a graduated driving system that begins when a teen is 15 1/2. The system is designed to give young drivers the practice they need to become safe drivers.
Despite these efforts, teen drivers are still involved in a disproportionate number of vehicle accidents. If you were involved in a teen driving accident in Stockton, contact a skilled auto collision attorney from the Valero Law Group for assistance filing a claim.
Teen Driving Laws
Teens between the ages of 15 1/2 and 18 are issued provisional driver’s licenses after they complete a driving education or training program, including a knowledge and skills test. For the first year, minors must have a parent, guardian, or licensed driver over 25 in the vehicle while driving.
After the first year, minors still have driving restrictions. They cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. and are prohibited from using electronic devices, even hands-free. Minor drivers also cannot have passengers under 20 unless an adult is in the vehicle. These limitations are designed to minimize distractions and encourage safe driving practices.
By letting their teens drive, Stockton parents or guardians assume financial responsibility for teen driving accidents. If you were involved in a teen driving accident, speak with an experienced accident lawyer from our firm to understand what compensation may be available.
Establishing Fault for a Teen Driving Wreck
California is an at-fault state, requiring injured parties to demonstrate that another driver is responsible for a wreck before they can collect compensation. Establishing fault for a teen driving wreck in Stockton means evaluating and presenting all available evidence that shows another person acted negligently or carelessly and that this behavior was the direct cause of the accident and resulting injuries and losses. Common forms of evidence include:
- Police report
- Medical reports
- Cell phone records
- Witness statements
- Traffic camera footage
When a catastrophic injury is involved, an attorney can work with experts like accident reconstructionists to further determine the cause of the accident. Working with experienced legal representation gives an injured person the best chance of a favorable outcome.
What Compensation Is Available?
California uses a comparative negligence system for determining fault. Comparative negligence refers to the percentage of responsibility each party bears for an accident. That fault percentage is deducted from any compensation an injured party may receive.
For example, a teen driver in Stockton is 75 percent at fault for an accident, and the injured party is 25 percent. When the claim is settled for $80,000, the injured party only receives 75 percent of the total award, or $60,000.
Economic and Noneconomic Damages
Economic damages cover medical expenses and other financial losses related to the accident, such as personal property damage, lost wages, and diminished earning capacity. Non-economic damages provide financial compensation for the more subjective losses after a wreck, like pain and suffering, emotional trauma, and a loss of enjoyment of life. In especially negligent cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the liable party and discourage repeated behavior in the future.
Insurance Carriers
Because all drivers must carry auto insurance, injured parties file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance company. The company examines the evidence and determines a settlement amount. However, the amount may be insufficient compensation. In those situations, our lawyers can help negotiate with the insurance carriers for more comprehensive compensation or take matters to court if settlement negotiations do not yield the desired results.
Contact our team to learn more about the potential value of a claim.
Contact Valero Law Group for Help After a Stockton Teen Driving Wreck
If you are injured in a teen driving accident in Stockton, consulting an experienced personal injury firm like Valero Law Group is essential. Our team can help gather documentation, review witness statements, and analyze medical and accident reports to build a strong case. We will explain your legal options and develop strategies to pursue the financial compensation you deserve.
We understand how disruptive an accident can be to your life. Before accepting any settlement, schedule a consultation with us to protect your rights and explore your options.
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