Legal Question in Personal Injury in Ohio

Re: legal protection for parents of teen drivers

In Ohio the parents of a minor are liable for injuries to person or property caused by their minor children but the amount is limited and to a small amount in the range of 2000-2500.00 depending on the circumstances. If the parent was negligent in permitting the child to drive a care knowing that the child was not competent to drive a car then a claim against the parent for negligent entrustment may be pursued but generally the minor child, if covered the the insurance policy of the parent with adequate limits should protect the parent from any personal liability above the policy limits. It is always a good idea to have a high liability policy limit for peace of mind as an injury or death can result in a very high verdict or settlement and if there is insufficient insurance coverage your child may be held liable and depending on when the case settles he may have a large judgment against him that may cause financial headaches for him and for you.

Howard Mishkind

Re: legal protection for parents of teen drivers

Insurance is always your best protection against driving accidents so you should have plenty of insurance. Ohio requires an adult to sign for a minors drivers license. You assume financial responsibility when you sign for the license not because you are the parent. There are lots of other variables which could determine parental responsibility for the acts of minors so good Auto and Homeowners or an umbrella policy are your best bet.