Legal Question in Personal Injury in Tennessee

Parental Responsibility for over 18

My son was involved in an automobile accident which he was at fault. He is 19, a freshman in college and lives at home. He is now being sued. Can the injured individual also sue us as parents since he is over the age of 18? The car was titled in my name, does that matter? Also, my insurance company is providing an attorney, should I seek a seperate attorney for advice, or simply use the one provided?


Asked on 2/08/09, 7:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Jes Beard Jes Beard, Attorney at Law

Re: Parental Responsibility for over 18

You might want to consult with another attorney, but your insurance company has a strong reason to protect you -- it pays any judgement against you if you lose. Talk with that attorney -- he is YOUR attorney, not the insurance company's attorney (even if they are paying his bill). Even if the car was in your name, unless you knew your son was a dangerous driver, or he was running an errand for you, or it can be shown that his use of the vehicle was for some general "family purpose," you would not be liable for the damages.

Read more
Answered on 2/11/09, 10:04 am


Related Questions & Answers

More Personal Injury Law and Tort Law questions and answers in Tennessee