It can start as an impulsive moment of fun: your teen or their friends take your car without permission, just for the thrill. Maybe they’re looking to impress their friends or chase a rush. But joyrides can quickly turn dangerous and potentially deadly, especially if an accident occurs. Here’s what parents of young drivers need to know.
Legal liability for parents of teen drivers
In Minnesota, parents can be held legally responsible if their teen driver (under age 18) crashes a vehicle. This liability may stem from various legal principles, such as vicarious liability. Even if a teen takes your car without permission, you may face civil liability and insurance claims.
Preventing teen joyrides: Safety rules every parent should enforce
There are many ways to motivate safe driving, and here are some of them:
- Understand passenger limits: During the first six months of licensure, teens may carry only one passenger under age 20 (excluding immediate family members); for the next six months, no more than three.
- Enforce the legal curfew: Under state law, teens may not drive between midnight and 5 a.m., unless traveling for work or school
- Ban distractions: Smartphones, loud music and other diversions contribute to crashes. In Minnesota, it’s illegal for drivers under 18 to use a cell phone while driving, even in hands-free mode. Set clear no-distraction rules, and enforce them consistently.
- Use a monitoring app: Popular options include Life360 or built-in telematics in newer vehicles.
- Require seatbelts: It’s the law, and it saves lives.
- Provide additional training: Minnesota’s snow, rain and low-visibility conditions call for advanced skills.
- Talk about peer pressure: Open dialogue helps teens resist reckless behavior.
It is also important to keep your vehicle well-maintained to prevent an accident related to faulty equipment.
When to seek legal help
Safe driving starts with responsibility and good judgment, and teens who understand this are far less likely to be involved in accidents. If your teen faces criminal charges, civil claims or insurance disputes resulting from a joyride gone wrong, consult a lawyer experienced in juvenile driving cases. An experienced attorney can protect your family’s rights and guide you through each step.