Teen Drivers and Speeding Accidents: What Parents Should Know About Liability
For many teens, getting a driver’s license represents a new level of freedom—but it also comes with serious responsibilities. In Las Vegas, where traffic is fast-paced and roads are often crowded, teen drivers are especially vulnerable to car accidents. When speed is a factor—and it often is with younger drivers—the consequences can be severe. At Mainor Ellis, our Las Vegas Speeding Accident Attorneys are often asked by parents: If my teen causes a speeding accident, can I be held legally responsible? The short answer is: yes, in many cases, parents can be held liable. Here’s what you need to know.
Teen drivers are more likely to engage in risky behaviors, including speeding, distracted driving, and failing to obey traffic signals. According to the CDC, motor vehicle crashes are a leading cause of death for teenagers in the U.S., and speeding is one of the most common contributing factors. In a busy city like Las Vegas—where tourists, rideshare drivers, and high-speed highways are common—these risks are amplified.
How Nevada Law Addresses Parental Liability
Under Nevada law, parents can be held financially responsible for their teen’s actions behind the wheel under several legal theories. One is negligent entrustment. If you allow your teen to drive knowing they have a history of reckless behavior, speeding tickets, or poor judgment, you could be liable for negligently entrusting a vehicle to an unfit driver.
Another theory is vicarious liability through ownership. If the car involved in the accident is registered in the parent’s name, an injured party may pursue a claim against the parent, not just the teen driver. Even if the teen is insured, the owner of the vehicle often bears liability.
Finally, Nevada’s financial responsibility laws require minors under 18 to have a financial responsibility statement signed by a parent or guardian before obtaining a driver’s license. This means the signing adult may be held liable for damages caused by the minor’s negligent driving.
How Parents Can Reduce Liability Risks
There are several steps parents can take to reduce potential liability. First, talk to your teen about the dangers of speeding and aggressive driving. Education goes a long way. Set clear rules about when and where your teen can drive—and who can be in the car with them. Consider installing a GPS or driving monitor to track speeding or erratic behavior. And always review your insurance coverage to ensure your policy adequately covers accidents involving your teen.
What If Your Teen Is the Victim?
Of course, not all accidents involving teens are caused by them. If your teen is injured due to another driver’s speeding or negligence, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim on their behalf to recover compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and more.
Get Trusted Legal Help from Mainor Ellis
If your teen has been involved in a speeding-related accident—either as the at-fault driver or the injured party—our team at Mainor Ellis is here to help. We’ll guide you through the legal process, explain your options, and fight for the best possible outcome. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Source:
dmv.nv.gov/nvdlteens.htm
