Who Can File a Claim After Your Teenager Is Involved in a Car Crash in Sebring?

Finding out your teenager has been in a car accident is every parent’s nightmare. Once you’ve ensured they’re safe, the next big question is who can file a claim to cover the costs of the accident. In Florida, if your teen is a minor, it’s typically the parent or legal guardian who must step in and file the claim on their behalf. Whether your child was driving or a passenger, understanding your legal role can be key to securing compensation for medical bills, vehicle repairs, and other expenses.

At Dismuke Law, we know how overwhelming it can feel when your child is involved in an accident. Led by David Dismuke, a Board-Certified Civil Trial Lawyer, Our team is led by David Dismuke, a Board-Certified Civil Trial Lawyer, and is here to offer clear, compassionate guidance through every step of the process. With years of experience, we’re dedicated to ensuring your family’s rights are protected and that you receive the personalized care and attention you deserve during this challenging time.

Can a Parent or Guardian File a Car Accident Claim on Behalf of Their Child?

In Florida, a parent or legal guardian can — and often must — file a car accident claim on behalf of their child if the child is under 18. Minors don’t have the legal capacity to initiate a lawsuit on their own, so parents play a crucial role in ensuring their child’s rights are protected. This means that if your teenager is injured in an accident, whether as a driver, passenger, or pedestrian, it falls to you as the parent or guardian to pursue compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, property damage, and other expenses related to the accident.

When filing a car accident claim on behalf of a minor, certain legal requirements must be met. Under Florida Statutes § 744.38, any settlement for a minor over $15,000 must be approved by the court to ensure the child’s best interests are protected. This process helps make sure the compensation is handled responsibly, especially if long-term care or significant medical expenses are involved. Understanding these rules is important because it can affect how quickly and smoothly the claim is resolved.

At Dismuke Law, we have extensive experience helping parents navigate the complexities of filing claims on behalf of their children. We are here to guide you through the process, making sure all legal requirements are met while working to secure the compensation your family needs.

What Are Your Legal Options if the Teen Driver Was at Fault?

If your teenager was at fault in a car accident, you still have legal options. Florida follows a system of comparative negligence, which means that fault can be shared between multiple parties involved in an accident. Even if your teen was partially responsible, you may still be able to seek compensation for damages, depending on the degree of fault assigned to them. For example, if your teen is found to be 60% at fault, you could still recover 40% of the total damages from the other party involved.

Navigating a claim where your teen was at fault can be complex, and you may need to address both liability and compensation issues. At Dismuke Law, we can help you understand your options and work toward a fair resolution. We’ll guide you through Florida’s comparative negligence and vicarious liability laws to protect your family’s financial interests while seeking the best possible outcome.

How Dismuke Law Can Help Your Family After a Teen Car Accident

When your teenager is involved in a car accident, you want to make sure every aspect is handled properly, from their medical care to the legal aftermath. At Dismuke Law, we understand how overwhelming this can be, especially when you’re facing complex legal questions. With years of experience in personal injury law, our team is committed to helping families navigate these challenging situations. We will ensure all legal requirements are met, whether you’re filing a claim on behalf of your child or dealing with the complexities of comparative negligence.

Led by Board-Certified Civil Trial Lawyer David Dismuke, we take a detailed and compassionate approach to every case. Our goal is to provide you with personalized guidance and support, ensuring your family’s rights are protected while pursuing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today at (863) 250-5050 or through our contact form to learn how we can assist you.