I Was Hit by an Underage Drunk Driver: Do I Have Any Legal Options?
A collision with a drunk driver can change your life and the lives of your loved ones. Holding a drunk driver accountable for damages is common, but what legal options are available if the drunk driver who hit you was a minor?
There are many facets to these sorts of cases, which is why it’s crucial to contact Moody Law, serving Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Tampa, FL. Our lawyers have helped many clients who were in DUI car accidents with drunk drivers. We can provide the answers you’re looking for and the legal help you need when it’s needed most.
Let’s look at the different aspects of these kinds of collision cases.
Can I Sue If I Was Hit by a Teenage Driver?
Yes.
Like any auto accident case that involves negligence on the part of another driver, you can sue the negligent party for damages. The damages will typically cover injuries and medical bills, damage to your vehicle and other property, and long-term impact on your mobility and quality of life.
Who Is Legally Liable for a Teenager Causing an Accident?
If the drunk driver is a minor (17 years old or younger), the underage drinker’s parent, guardian, or caretaker will typically be financially responsible for any injury or damage caused.
Keep in mind, we’re only talking about civil penalties when it comes to minors who cause DUI crashes. Criminal penalties for such conduct are a different matter entirely.
What About Young Adult Drivers Under the Minimum Age to Consume Alcohol?
If the driver is 18 to 20 years old, they are legally an adult and can be held financially liable for the collision.
Third-Party Liability for Serving Alcohol to People Underage
In some cases, you could sue a third party who served alcohol to the underage driver who caused the car accident.
The liable third party could be a bar or restaurant that failed to check ID or served a patron even though they presented an obviously fake ID. Family members or other individuals who gave a minor alcoholic beverages or hosted a party in which there were underage drinkers could also be held liable depending on the details of what happened.
Drunk Driving and Negligence: What It Means for Your Case
Regardless of the age of the driver who caused the crash, if they were intoxicated at the time of the accident, they demonstrated negligence.
Determining the right party to take to court requires lawyers who understand the complexities of car accident lawsuits and Florida tort laws. Moody Law can help.
Holding Negligent Parties Accountable
During your consultation with our team, we can review the details of the case and its lasting effects on you or your family. If you experienced an accident that caused the death of a loved one, we will help file a wrongful death lawsuit.
We can offer counsel and guidance every step of the way.
Contact Our Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one were injured in a collision, we encourage you to speak with our attorneys as soon as possible. Our law offices in Lakeland, Winter Haven, and Tampa are ready to help. To set up a consultation at Moody Law, contact our legal team today.
