Can I File a Lawsuit if I Was Hit by an Underage Drunk Driver?
The legal age for alcohol consumption is 21. However, many minors admit to drinking alcohol before their 21st birthday. Even worse, some get behind the wheel while intoxicated. Drunk driving accidents are a leading cause of personal injury, automobile fatalities, and financial losses. Victims of DUI accidents have the right to pursue compensation for related economic and non-economic damages, but the process may be a little more complicated when an underage driver is involved.
Individuals in the Dallas, TX, area who are hit by an underage drunk driver have legal options to consider. DUI accident lawyer Hardin R. Ramey works with injury victims to determine liability and pursue compensation from appropriate parties.
Seeking Compensation From a Minor Underage Drunk Driver
The state of Texas defines a minor as someone under the age of 18. Texas law further prevents minors from being sued in civil court. When someone is hit by an underage drunk driver under the age of 18, they may assume they have no legal recourse. Fortunately, there are legal options available to individuals struck by a drunk driver who is a minor.
Seeking Compensation Through the Driver’s Insurance
All Texas drivers, including minors, are required to carry automobile insurance. Minor drivers may be covered by their own insurance policy or remain on their parent’s policy. In either case, drunk driving accident victims can pursue compensation through the driver’s insurance company. Injured parties should be aware that insurance companies frequently offer quick settlements that don’t adequately cover accident damages. Mr. Ramey works on behalf of his clients to negotiate a favorable settlement with insurance companies. If necessary, a lawsuit can be filed against the insurance company.
Sue the Driver’s Parents
State law holds parents responsible for the actions of minor children. So while an accident victim cannot file a lawsuit against a minor drunk driver, they can sue the driver’s parents. Parents can be held liable for the full extent of the injured party’s losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Can I Sue An Underage Driver Aged 18 or Older?
Although an 18-year-old is not legally allowed to consume alcohol, they are legally considered an adult and are responsible for their actions and the consequences of their actions. Individuals involved in an underage drunk driving accident with someone aged 18 to 21 can seek compensation through the driver’s insurance company or by filing a personal injury lawsuit.
Proving a Driver Is Impaired
To establish liability for an underage drunk driving accident, the plaintiff must prove the driver was impaired at the time of the crash. Mr. Ramey works alongside investigators to collect evidence that demonstrates liability, including:
- Police reports
- Information about the driver’s BAC (blood alcohol content)
- Photos and videos of the accident scene
- Eyewitness testimony
Contact Us
Individuals injured in an underage drunk driving accident have the right to pursue financial compensation for collision and injury damages. To find out how DUI car accident lawyer Hardin R. Ramey can assist you in holding liable parties accountable for your losses, contact our law firm at your earliest convenience to schedule a consultation.
