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Filing a Personal Injury Claim Against an At-Fault Minor’s Parents

In California, determining whether you can sue an at-fault minor’s parents for a personal injury requires careful consideration of state laws and the specific circumstances of the incident. While the law may hold parents or guardians liable in certain situations, such as when a minor is driving their parent’s vehicle, every case is unique. A highly qualified personal injury attorney can review the details of your case and determine the best path forward for recovering the compensation you deserve for your injuries and other losses.

Can I Sue An At-Fault Minor’s Parents for My Injuries?

While it is illegal to file a lawsuit against anyone under 18 in California, there are several situations where their parents or guardians may be held liable for the child’s actions. A few of these situations include the following:

Parental Neglect

If a parent’s failure to supervise their child properly contributed to your accident, you may be able to hold the parents accountable for your injuries. For instance, if a minor took their parent’s car keys and caused an accident, the parent may be at fault.

Driver Negligence

Negligence in car accident cases can be complex. If the minor was a licensed driver and behaved negligently, the parent may be held responsible for their actions. However, this is not always the case. Your attorney can evaluate your case to determine how you can be compensated for your injuries.

Willful Misconduct

If a minor harms someone intentionally, the parents may be legally responsible for any injuries and other damages their child causes.

The laws surrounding parental liability are complex, making having a trusted attorney in your corner essential.

Ways a Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help You

Cases involving minors can be challenging to pursue without the help of a seasoned attorney. At Eric Ratinoff Law Corp., our attorneys are dedicated to helping personal injury accident victims recover the compensation they deserve. A few of the many ways we can help you include the following:

Meticulously investigating every detail of your accident
Collecting evidence and witness testimonies
Negotiating with all parties on your behalf
Organizing your medical bills and other expenses
Working with highly credible expert witnesses
Strategically formulating your case to maximize your results
Utilizing storyboards and videos to tell your story in a compelling way
Fighting aggressively for your rights and interests before and during litigation
Answering your legal questions and keeping you updated on the status of your case