Teen drivers are responsible for many auto collisions in Norfolk and Virginia Beach each year. If a teen driver's negligence caused your crash and you were injured, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries under Virginia law. Hiring an experienced car accident lawyer to fight for the damages you deserve is essential to win your case.
Why Teens Are Dangerous Drivers
Teen drivers are often inexperienced and prone to making dangerous mistakes on the road. Some of the most common reasons why teen drivers cause car accidents in Virginia include:
- Inexperience. Teen drivers often lack the experience to properly respond to unexpected situations on the road, such as sudden stops or weather conditions. They may also be unfamiliar with the rules of the road or proper vehicle operation in various situations they may encounter.
- Distractions. Teenagers are easily distracted, especially when they have friends in the car, are texting or talking on their cellphone, or are listening to music. This can cause them to take their minds off their driving and their eyes off the road, increasing the likelihood that they will cause a distracted driving wreck.
- Speeding. Teen drivers are often more likely to speed, leading to dangerous collisions, particularly in areas with high pedestrian or bicycle traffic or on highways.
- Intoxication. Tragically, some teen drivers drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can impair their judgment, vision, and reaction time, leading to devastating preventable auto accidents.
- Passengers. When teen drivers have passengers in the car, they can become distracted and may feel pressure to impress or entertain them. They may engage in dangerous behaviors like drag racing, tailgating, or reckless driving.
Your Right to Compensation in a Car Accident Caused by a Teen Driver
You must prove a teenage driver’s negligence caused your car crash to be entitled to compensation for your injuries. Types of damages you should receive in your settlement with their insurance company include:
- Medical expenses. You should receive the cost of medical treatment for your injuries, including hospital bills, doctor's visits, medications, and physical therapy in your settlement.
- Lost wages. If you cannot work due to your injuries, you should be compensated for your lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering. The insurance company for the negligent driver should pay you damages for the physical and emotional pain caused by your injuries. A skilled car accident attorney can value this portion of your claim.
- Property damage. If your vehicle suffered damages or was totaled in the accident, you may deserve compensation for the cost of repairs or its replacement.