Arlington Teen Driver Car Accidents
As most of us know, learning to drive can be scary. Because teens are often vulnerable and inexperienced when they get behind the wheel of a car for the first time, they are more likely to be involved vehicle collisions.
For young people, car crashes are traumatizing experiences and can cause physical and emotional scars that last a lifetime. Unfortunately, the legal claims process can be just as difficult for parents after their child was involved in a collision.
Thankfully, an experienced car accident attorney could help. Get in touch with a lawyer after a teen driver car accident in Arlington to learn how you can protect the rights of you and your child.
Teen Driving Requirements in Arlington
Texas law states that a 16-year-old can drive if they have met the necessary legal requirements. Although teens can begin taking driver’s ed courses once they turn 14, they must be 15 years old to be eligible for a learner’s permit. However, medical emergencies and exceptions could be in play that allow person to begin driving earlier. In rare circumstances, a court may issue a hardship license to individuals at age 15.
Teenagers between 16 and 18 who have had an instructional permit for at least six months can apply for a provisional license, but they must complete the following steps before applying:
- Specific behind-the-wheel driving tests
- Thirty hours of supervised driving, ten of which must be at night
- Certified completion of seven hours of observation by a supervisor
- Certified completion of seven hours driving instructions by an authorized instructor
In addition to these requirements, young drivers must have no traffic infractions or violations within the prior six months to be eligible for a license. If a driver is under 18, they cannot drive between midnight and 5 A.M. unless it is for work, school, or a medical emergency.
Underage motorists are also prohibited from driving with more than one passenger younger than 21 who is not an immediate family member. Those restrictions don’t apply if there’s a licensed adult at least 21 years old with at least one year of driving experience. A knowledgeable attorney in Arlington could explain these laws to ensure a
How Do Teen Driving Accidents Occur?
Often, driver inexperience leads to crashes among teenagers. Because teens become nervous when behind the wheel, they often freeze when faced with difficult situations. Likewise, other drivers may take advantage of the naivety of young motorists. In other cases, distracted driving could be the cause of a collision. Unfortunately, this is a pattern in many states nationwide.
Given the serious injuries that result from driver inexperience it should be a strong focus to get compensation for young vehicle crash victims and ensure at-fault parties are held accountable for the damages they caused.
What to Do After a Teen Car Wreck
It is crucial to prepare teens for car accidents to ensure they have the best chance at physical and financial recovery. First, young drivers should immediately call emergency services after a collision in Arlington and describe any injuries they might have to healthcare professionals.
It is important to remind teen drivers to refrain from apologizing for the event since any admission at the accident scene could be used against them. Finally, teens should call their parents and seek legal advice from a legal representative as soon as possible.
Get in Touch with a Teen Driver Car Accident Attorney in Arlington
There is nothing more devastating than knowing your child was involved in a teen driver car accident in Arlington. Knowing where to turn after these types of collisions can be overwhelming. However, you do not have to face this type of unfortunate situation on your own.
A compassionate lawyer is here to help you get through the claims process so you can focus on helping your child. Call today to learn more about filing a claim for damages.