sharminlaw

Liability for A Minor CHild Involved in A Palm Beach County Car Accident

Generally, a parent is not liable for acts committed by a minor child.  However, if a parent executes or signs a driver license application on behalf of a minor child, there is an exception.  Anyone under 18 who applies for a driver license must have a parent of guardian sign the application or someone who will assume liability.  If the minor child subsequently is involved in a West Palm Beach car accident due to negligently operating a motor vehicle prior to turning 18, the person who signed the application is jointly and severally liable with the minor for the minor's negligence.

This law was intended to only make the parent liable for actual damages and not punitive damages.  If the minor child was driving a vehicle insured by the parent, the parent and child will be covered by the policy unless the child did not live with the parent at the time.  A parent who signs a driver license application will remain liable for the minor child until he/she is emancipated even if the child does not reside with the parent.  If you are the parent or guardian of a minor child who negligently operated a motor vehicle in resulting in a car accident, contact an expereinced West Palm Beach car accident attorney to discuss your liability and inform you about the process.  Don't try to negotiate with the insurance company yourself or the other guy's attorney.  Protect yourself!