Teen Driver Accident Lawyers in Columbus, OH

Columbus Teen Car Accident Lawyers

Teen drivers are significantly more prone to car accidents due to their inexperience behind the wheel. Insurance companies recognize this risk, which is why premiums for teen drivers are typically higher. If you or a loved one has been involved in an accident with a teen driver in Columbus, Ohio, the experienced attorneys at Kisling, Nestico & Redick are here to help.

Call us today at (614) 487-8669 to schedule a free, initial consultation with a Columbus car accident lawyer about your case.

Teen Driving Laws in Ohio

Ohio has enacted specific laws to minimize the risks associated with teen driving. These rules aim to protect both teen drivers and others on the road, particularly in busy areas like Columbus.

Teenage license restrictions include:

• No driving between midnight and 6 a.m. unless there is a parent or guardian in the vehicle.
• No driving with more than one non-family member.
• Seat belts must be worn at all times by everyone in the vehicle.
• The use of mobile phones is not permitted while driving.

Common Causes of Teen Driver Accidents in Columbus

Teen car accidents often result from risky behaviors and inexperience. At Kisling, Nestico & Redick, we have seen many accidents in Columbus caused by:

• Inexperienced driving – Teen drivers often struggle with Columbus traffic in the Short North or on I-270 or handle adverse weather conditions.
• Distracted driving – Texting, eating, adjusting music, or interacting with passengers often distracts teen drivers.
• Driving under the influence – Despite legal restrictions, some teens drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol, putting everyone at risk.
• Reckless driving – Overconfidence in their abilities or peer pressure from their friends may lead teens to speed, tailgate, or engage in other dangerous behaviors.

Steps to Take After a Teen Driver Accident in Columbus

If you or your teen is involved in an accident in Franklin County, it’s important to follow these steps after an accident:

• Stay calm and remain at the scene – A teen may be anxious and tempted to flee the scene of the accident. Since doing so is illegal, they should stay calm and remain at the scene.
• Call the police – A police report will document the accident and be valuable for any insurance or legal claims.
• Don’t admit fault – A teen may feel bad and apologize if they believe the accident is their fault. They should refrain from doing so, as admitting fault can hurt them in the future.
• Document the scene – It’s important for a teen to take pictures of the accident scene as well as any vehicles that were involved in the accident.
• Exchange contact information – A teen should ask the other driver(s) for their contact information and insurance details.
• Call parents – Parents should be notified of the incident so that they can come to the scene and help determine the next steps.

Once these steps have been taken, contact a Columbus car accident laywer to evaluate your case and guide you through the claims process. An attorney can help determine who is liable for the accident, speak to insurance companies, and help file a personal injury claim so that compensation for damages may be recovered.

Parent Liability for Teen Driver Accidents in Ohio

In Ohio, parents or guardians can be held responsible for damages caused by their teen drivers. This is because Ohio law holds adults accountable for negligence or misconduct committed by a minor while driving.

Here’s what you should know:

• Parents’ insurance policies usually extend to their teen drivers.
• Parents may bear the full financial responsibility for damages if a teen driver lacks insufficient resources.
• In some cases, the teen’s personal insurance may cover the accident if they have independent coverage.

Legal Options for Teenage Car Accident Victims in Columbus

A teenage driver can be the victim of another driver’s negligence just like anyone else. If your child is hurt because of someone else, you may wonder if you can file an insurance claim or seek compensation on their behalf.

Under Ohio Rules for Civil Procedure 17(b), you can seek compensation for medical expenses and other damages incurred due to the accident. A skilled Columbus car accident lawyer can explain your rights and fight to secure the compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Columbus Teen Car Accident Lawyers for Help

Whether your teen has been injured in an accident or you’ve been hit by a teen driver Kisling, Nestico & Redick is here to help. We have a deep understanding of Columbus traffic patterns and the legal issues surrounding teen driving accidents.

Contact us today at (614) 487-8669 to schedule a free case consultation with our experienced Columbus car accident lawyers.