Las Vegas Teen Driving Accident Attorney

Happy young woman leaning out of a white car window, smiling and enjoying the breeze
Happy young woman leaning out of a white car window, smiling and enjoying the breeze

Teen driving accidents happen far too often in Las Vegas. Young drivers, frequently inexperienced and sometimes reckless, are more likely to cause crashes that result in serious injuries. Distracted driving, speeding, and drunk driving all play a role in many of these accidents. If you or a loved one has suffered injuries in a teen driving accident, you need legal representation that fights for you.

At THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys, we understand the impact of auto accidents, especially those involving teenage drivers. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional distress can take a toll. Our experienced car accident attorneys work tirelessly to hold at-fault drivers accountable and pursue fair compensation for accident victims. Don’t face this alone. Schedule a consultation with our skilled Las Vegas car accident lawyer. We are here to help you recover and move forward.

Las Vegas Laws on Teen Driving 

In Nevada, the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program guides teenagers through three stages to promote safe driving habits. Initially, at 15½ years old, teens can obtain an instruction permit. This allows them to drive under the supervision of a licensed adult aged 21 or older. They must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, including 10 hours at night.

After holding the permit for six months and reaching 16, they can apply for an intermediate license. This license permits unsupervised driving except between 10 PM and 5 AM. Additionally, they cannot have passengers under 18 for the first six months, except for siblings.

Upon turning 18 or after holding the intermediate license for one year without violations, teens are eligible for a full, unrestricted license.

Teen Driving Statistics in Las Vegas

Nevada defines “young drivers” as between the ages of 15 and 20. The most current data from the state Department of Public Safety indicates that over four years:

  • Young drivers made up 11 percent of the state’s motor vehicle crash deaths.
  • Three-quarters of Nevada’s young driver collisions occurred in urban areas.
  • Male drivers between 16 and 20 comprised the highest age group of at-fault drivers in fatal crashes involving young drivers.
  • Most fatal motor vehicle crashes involving young drivers occurred between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m.
  • Half of all these wrecks happened at night.
  • Saturdays are the deadliest days for teen crashes in Nevada.
  • Angle crashes account for over one-third of young driver crashes in the state. Vehicle rollovers are the second-most common type of accident.
  • Young drivers between the ages of 16 and 20 were at fault in 7 percent of impaired driving collisions.

Common Causes of Teen Driving Accidents in Las Vegas

Friends toasting with beer glasses and bottles in a festive pub setting

Lack of experience plays a role in most car accidents caused by teen drivers. This inexperience is due to fewer hours of driving time than adults and immaturity. Teen drivers still have developing brains, and their judgment is not always where it should be. Other factors that contribute to teen driver accidents are the same as those in adult car crashes, such as:

  • Distracted driving, especially from cell phones and other teen passengers
  • Speeding
  • Tailgating
  • Failure to yield
  • Reckless driving, including weaving in and out of traffic
  • Impaired driving

All of these actions may be considered negligent behavior. When another driver’s negligence causes an injury or fatal crash, they could be held liable through a personal injury claim or lawsuit.

Can Parents Be Sued After a Teen Driving Accident?

In Nevada, a parent or guardian must endorse a teen’s application for a driving permit or a minor’s driver’s license. Under state law, any negligence or recklessness of a minor while driving can be imputed to the person who endorsed the minor’s application for a permit or license.

As a result, parents who sign their teen’s permit or license applications can be sued under Nevada statutory law if their teen later causes a motor vehicle crash. Parents might be held accountable under a claim of negligent entrustment if their child causes a collision and they had reason to know their teen posed a risk of getting into an accident.

Are Accidents Involving Teen Drivers Covered by Insurance? 

Man filling out an insurance claim form near a damaged car with a dented front bumper

Insurance coverage for accidents involving teen drivers depends on the policy and circumstances. Most auto insurance policies cover teen drivers if listed on the policyholder’s plan. However, coverage can vary based on factors such as the type of insurance, state laws, and the driver’s status at the time of the accident.

General Coverage for Teen Drivers

  • If a teen is included in the policy, they are typically covered under the same terms as other drivers in the household.
  • Some policies cover teens who borrow a car with permission, even if they are not listed.
  • If a policyholder expressly excludes a teen from coverage, the insurance may not pay for any accidents they cause.

Factors That Affect Claim Approval

  • Liability Coverage: Covers damages to others if the teen is at fault. It is required in most states.
  • Collision Coverage: Pays for damage to the policyholder’s vehicle, regardless of fault.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Covers non-collision incidents like theft, vandalism, or weather damage.
  • Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Helps if the teen is in an accident with a driver who lacks insurance.

When Claims May Be Denied

  • An insurance company may deny claims if the teen is unlicensed or driving illegally.
  • Accidents involving intoxication or illegal behavior can result in denied claims.
  • Some policies exclude coverage for business or rideshare use.

Compensation for a Teen Driving Accident in Nevada

The physical, financial, and emotional costs of a teen driving accident can be astronomical. Nevada law allows victims to pursue compensation from the at-fault party to recoup these losses.

Compensation for a teen crash may include the following:

  • Past, present, and future medical bills
  • Lost wages
  • Lost earning potential if the crash affects or will affect the victim’s ability to work
  • Rehabilitation costs
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost quality of life
  • Property damage

Protect Your Loved Ones – Get the Legal Help They Deserve

It’s a nightmare no one wants to have: Your teen driver or someone you love got hurt in a car accident. Get help from the Las Vegas car accident lawyers at THE702FIRM Injury Attorneys today. Our accomplished legal team will provide the compassionate and competent representation you need to seek maximum compensation. Call or contact us now for a free case review.