Teen Car Accidents in Atlanta: Causes, Legal Implications, and Preventative Measures

It’s just a matter of fact that teenage drivers are inexperienced and more prone to risky behaviors behind the wheel. As a parent, you do everything you can to keep your child safe behind the wheel – get them the best instruction, insist on driving distraction-free, limit the hours they can go out, and, perhaps, even track where the car is located at any given time. But accidents happen, even when trying to be the safest we can be. When that happens, the experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer team at Mabra Law is here to help.

Common Causes of Teen Car Accidents

We’ve seen many car accidents involving teenagers. Some of the most common causes of accidents involving young drivers in Atlanta include: 

• Inexperience – New drivers lack the experience to handle complex traffic situations, react to sudden hazards, and make split-second decisions. Because driving is new, high-stress situations, like driving in downtown Atlanta or poor weather conditions, can increase the risk of accidents when teens are behind the wheel.
• Distracted Driving – Teenagers are more likely to use their phones while driving, whether for texting, social media, or navigating. Distractions also come from passengers eating or adjusting the radio. Georgia’s hands-free law prohibits handheld devices while driving, but many teens still engage in distracted driving behaviors.
• Speeding is a significant factor in teen car accidents. Young drivers often underestimate the dangers of excessive speed, leading to loss of control and severe crashes. Atlanta’s busy roads and highways, such as I-285 and I-75, frequently involve speed-related teen accidents.
• Driving Under the Influence (or Driving High) – Although underage drinking is illegal, some teens still drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Impaired driving drastically increases the likelihood of a crash, leading to serious injuries or fatalities. Teens caught driving under the influence of alcohol or marijuana may face license suspension, mandatory drug education programs, and hefty fines. In severe cases, they could face probation or juvenile detention, depending on the circumstances.
• Reckless or Aggressive Driving – Teens are more likely to engage in risky behaviors such as tailgating, weaving through traffic, and failing to yield. These actions put them and others at risk, particularly in congested areas of Atlanta.

Legal Implications of Teen Car Accidents

Several legal factors come into play when a teen is involved in a car accident. Understanding these implications can help families make informed decisions about their legal options.

• Parental Liability – In Georgia, parents can be held liable for their teen’s car accident under the “family purpose doctrine.” If the parent owns the vehicle and allows their teen to drive it, they may be responsible for damages resulting from an accident. Parents may also face legal consequences if their teen drives under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This can include being held financially liable for damages or injuries caused by the teen, and in some cases, parents may face penalties for negligence in supervising their teen’s vehicle accesses.
• Insurance Considerations – Teen drivers typically have higher insurance rates due to their increased risk. If a teen is at fault in an accident, their insurance policy may cover damages, but limits and exclusions vary. Consulting an Atlanta car accident lawyer can help families understand their coverage options and legal rights.
• Criminal Charges – If a teen is found guilty of reckless driving, DUI, or other traffic violations, they may face criminal charges. These charges can result in fines, license suspension, or even jail time in severe cases.
• Civil Lawsuits – Victims of accidents caused by teen drivers may file personal injury lawsuits seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer can help navigate these legal proceedings.

Preventative Measures to Reduce Teen Car Accidents

We know you want your child to be as safe as possible on the road. These preventative measures undoubtedly reduce the risk of accidents, but unfortunately, even the safest drivers in the most optimal of situations still face the risk of a crash.

Enroll in a Driver’s Education Program

Driver’s education courses teach teens essential skills and defensive driving techniques. Georgia requires teens under 18 to complete a state-approved driver’s education program before obtaining a full driver’s license.

Set Driving Rules and Curfews

Parents should establish rules, such as limiting nighttime driving, restricting the number of passengers, and prohibiting phone use while driving. They should also consider when the time changes and how that impacts driving at night.

Lead by Example

Teens learn from their parents’ driving behaviors. Practicing safe driving, wearing seat belts, and obeying traffic laws can set a positive example. When your child reaches an age where using the phone in the car is standard, consider implementing family rules about putting phones in the backseat or a special box when the vehicle is in motion. 

Monitor Driving Habits

Several apps and vehicle monitoring systems allow parents to track their teen’s driving behavior, including speed, location, and phone usage. While this might seem overkill, many of these platforms have settings allowing parents to choose what they track and when. 

Encourage Safe Driving Agreements

Creating a parent-teen driving contract to outline expectations and consequences can reinforce responsible driving habits. The contract can help facilitate an understanding between you and your teen of the above safe driving habits and also set agreed-on family punishments if rules are broken.

What to Do After a Teen Car Accident in Atlanta

If a teen is involved in a car accident, taking the proper steps can protect their legal rights and ensure their safety. As a parent, be sure these steps are taken to ensure the safety of your son or daughter, but also to ensure you can take legal action later if needed.

1. Check for Injuries – Immediately check for injuries and call 911 if medical assistance is needed. Note that some injuries may not immediately present themselves.
2. Report the Accident – Georgia law requires drivers to report accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or significant property damage, which means you need to call the local police department if you did not call 911 for immediate medical support.
3. Gather Evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Collect witness statements and exchange contact information with other drivers involved.
4. Seek Medical Attention – Even if there are no visible injuries, getting a medical evaluation to identify any underlying issues is essential.
5. Consult an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer – Navigating the legal aftermath of a car accident can be overwhelming. An experienced Atlanta car accident lawyer at Mabra Law can help determine liability, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent the teen’s best interest in court if necessary.

Schedule a Free Consultation with an Atlanta Car Accident Lawyer Today

If your family is dealing with the aftermath of a car accident, seeking the guidance of an Atlanta car accident lawyer can help ensure you are protecting your child’s rights and doing everything possible to secure fair compensation. Parents and teens can work together to reduce the risks associated with teen driving by promoting safe driving habits and staying informed. Contact us for more information and a free consultation about whether Mabra Law can help you with a teen driving issue.