Inexperienced teen drivers are more likely to get into a crash than the average adult motorist. Because of this, the state imposes various rules to mitigate the inherent risks of minors behind the wheel.
Teen driving accidents in Orland Park can often lead to catastrophic injuries for those involved. When you or a loved one has suffered injuries due to a minor’s careless actions while driving, please contact MJB Law Firm. Our dedicated auto collision attorney could discuss damages and how to file a personal injury claim.
Unique Rules Impacting Teen Drivers
The state has implemented several measures to lower the chances of teen driving collisions in Orland Park. For example, teenage motorists are subject to a graduated licensing system that places certain restrictions on their driving privileges.
For licensed drivers ages 16 through 17, the state imposes the following restrictions:
- Prohibited from driving at night from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Sunday through Thursday and from 11 p.m. to 6 a.m. on Friday and Saturday
- Limited to one passenger in the vehicle under the age of 20
- Completely prohibited from using a cell phone, even if the device has hands-free capabilities
Local municipalities may implement more restrictive curfew hours for teen drivers. During this initial licensing phase, a teenager must also accumulate a certain number of driving hours and take driver’s education classes.
While most of these prohibitions do not apply once the driver turns 17, teen drivers remain prohibited from using a cell phone with hands-free capabilities until they reach age 19.
Common Causes of Teen Driving Wrecks
Teen driving crashes can happen for several reasons. Some causes are outside the driver’s control, such as bad weather, poor lighting, or mechanical errors. However, several negligent actions behind the wheel can contribute to a teen driving accident in Orland Park. Some examples of negligent driving behavior include the following:
When negligent actions lead to a collision, the injured party can pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Motorists have a general duty to obey state traffic laws and operate their vehicles with reasonable care.
Evidence that a teen driver engaged in risky driving behavior or violated state traffic laws can help prove they breached their duty of care. However, the breach of care must have directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries and damages they suffered.
Damages are not limited to out-of-pocket losses, such as property damage or lost wages. Individuals can also pursue compensation for immeasurable harm, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, or mental anguish.
Parents Can Have Liability For Teen Driver Crashes
When a teen driver is seeking a provisional license, their parent or guardian must sign a written consent form for the minor. In most cases, a parent will place their teenage child under their own insurance policy.
Parents or guardians in Orland Park must understand that they could be liable for certain negligent actions by their teen driver that cause an accident. According to the state’s Parental Responsibility Law in 740 Ill. Comp. Stat. Ann. § 115, parents of minors residing with them can be held liable for the willful or malicious actions by minors that cause injuries or property damage.
Since the liability is limited to willful actions, the plaintiff can only pursue damages against the parent under this statute for certain types of negligent behavior. For example, if a teen driver is guilty of reckless driving or driving while intoxicated, a court may consider these actions as willfully negligent behavior.
Speak With an Orland Park Attorney About Teen Driving Accident Liability
When you or a loved one is injured in a teen driving accident in Orland Park, you should ask a lawyer about your ability to recover compensation. You may face expensive medical bills and physical therapy costs for injuries in a crash.
Since you only have a limited amount of time to file a claim under the state’s statute of limitations, time is of the essence. Our law firm will work hard to fight on your behalf to recover compensation for the harm you have suffered. Call today to speak with a compassionate personal injury attorney.
