Texas roads can be dangerous for any driver, but especially for teenagers who are new behind the wheel. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), teen drivers are involved in a disproportionate number of serious and fatal crashes across the state each year. As a parent, understanding the risks and legal responsibilities tied to teen driving accidents is essential to protecting your child and your family’s financial well-being.

At JML Injury Law, we represent victims of all types of motor vehicle accidents, including those caused by inexperienced or negligent teen drivers. In this blog, we’ll explain the common causes of teen driving accidents, parental liability laws in Texas, how insurance works in these cases, and what steps to take if your teen is involved in a crash.

Understanding the Risk: Teen Drivers and Texas Crash Statistics

Teen drivers are statistically more likely to be involved in accidents due to their inexperience, impulsiveness, and susceptibility to distractions. According to 2023 TxDOT data:

Drivers aged 16 to 19 accounted for over 10% of all traffic crashes in Texas.
Teen drivers were involved in more than 80,000 accidents statewide.
Distracted driving, speeding, and failing to yield were the most common causes.

These numbers reflect a troubling trend. While teens make up a small percentage of drivers on the road, they cause a disproportionately high number of crashes, many of which result in injury or death.

Common Causes of Teen Driving Accidents

Some of the most frequent causes of teen-related car accidents in Texas include:

Distracted Driving: Texting, using apps, and even talking to passengers can take a teen’s attention off the road.
Speeding: Many young drivers underestimate how long it takes to stop or lose control at high speeds.
Lack of Experience: Teen drivers often struggle with merging, navigating intersections, and reacting to sudden changes in traffic.
Driving Under the Influence: While less common, some teens do drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, especially during holidays or weekends.
Night Driving: Limited visibility and fatigue contribute to increased accident risk at night.

Texas Laws for Teen Drivers: The Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program

To reduce teen crash rates, Texas uses a Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. This multi-phase system introduces driving privileges gradually:

Learner’s License (Phase One): Must be held for at least six months. Teen drivers must be accompanied by a licensed adult over age 21.
Provisional License (Phase Two): Teens can drive alone but face restrictions like no driving between midnight and 5 a.m. and limits on the number of passengers under 21.
Full License: Issued at age 18, assuming no violations or crashes.

Despite these laws, accidents still happen. And when they do, the question becomes: who is legally and financially responsible?

Parental Liability for Teen Driving Accidents in Texas

In Texas, parents can be held liable for damages caused by their teen drivers in several ways:

1. Vicarious Liability Under the Family Purpose Doctrine

This legal concept holds that if a vehicle is provided by a parent for the general use of the family, the parent may be responsible for any accidents caused by a child driving that vehicle.

2. Negligent Entrustment

If a parent knowingly allows a teen to drive a car when they are unlicensed, inexperienced, reckless, or under the influence, the parent could be liable for negligent entrustment.

3. Co-Signing the Driver’s License

In Texas, teens under 18 must have a parent or guardian sign their license application. By signing, the parent agrees to assume responsibility for any damages the teen causes while driving.

This can open families up to financial exposure if proper precautions are not taken.

Insurance Coverage for Teen Drivers

Car insurance is essential for protecting families against the financial consequences of a teen driving accident. In Texas:

Teens must be listed on their parents’ auto insurance policy if they drive a family vehicle.
Liability insurance is required and covers injury and property damage to others.
Optional coverages like collision, comprehensive, and uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) can offer additional protection.

If your teen is involved in a crash, your insurance policy may be the first source of compensation for injury victims. However, depending on the severity of the crash, claims could exceed your policy limits.

That’s why it’s important to consider higher liability limits or an umbrella policy.

Steps to Take If Your Teen Is in an Accident

If your teenager has been involved in a crash, take the following steps to protect their legal rights and limit your liability:

Ensure Everyone Is Safe: Check for injuries and call 911 if needed.
Report the Accident: Call the police and file an official crash report.
Document the Scene: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, license plates, and any injuries.
Exchange Information: Gather contact and insurance details from all involved parties.
Avoid Admitting Fault: Remind your teen not to discuss fault at the scene or post about the accident on social media.
Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries seem minor, a medical evaluation can uncover underlying issues.
Contact Your Insurance Company: Notify your insurer promptly and cooperate with the investigation.
Speak With an Attorney: If someone is injured or fault is disputed, talk to a Texas personal injury lawyer immediately.

What If Your Teen Is Injured by Another Driver?

If your teen was the victim rather than the at-fault driver, you may be entitled to compensation. In these cases, our legal team at JML Injury Law helps families:

File personal injury claims against negligent drivers
Pursue compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages
Coordinate with your insurance provider for PIP, UM/UIM, or MedPay coverage

We understand the fear and frustration that comes with a serious crash involving your child. We’ll fight for full and fair compensation so your family can focus on healing.

Preventative Tips for Parents of Teen Drivers

Here are a few steps parents can take to reduce the risk of their teen being involved in a serious car crash:

Enroll your teen in a defensive driving course
Limit nighttime driving until they’ve gained experience
Set rules about phone use, music, and passengers
Use apps or tools to monitor speed and driving behavior
Model good driving habits yourself

Driving is a privilege, not a right. Reinforcing that mindset helps teens take their responsibilities seriously.

Why Choose JML Injury Law After a Teen Driving Accident?

At JML Injury Law, we understand how overwhelming teen driving accidents can be for families. As a woman-owned Texas personal injury firm, we bring compassion, clarity, and courtroom experience to every case. Whether your teen was injured or they caused an accident that left someone else hurt, we’re here to help you understand your rights and navigate the legal and insurance process with confidence.

We take a personalized approach to every case and offer free consultations to families across Dallas, Plano, McKinney, and beyond.

Schedule a Free Consultation Today

If your family has been affected by a teen driving accident in Texas, don’t face the aftermath alone. JML Injury Law can help you pursue compensation, reduce liability exposure, and protect your legal rights.

Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us be your trusted advocates during this difficult time.