Teen Driving Rights: What Every Parent and Teenager Should Understand

So, you have your driver's license. Finally. And off you go. With this new added freedom comes a huge social and legal responsibility in addition to a new addition of rights as a licensed driver. As a teen driver, understanding some of the unique dynamics which are associated with possessing and using a driver's license will ensure a more educated process when, and if, these events transpire.

First, and foremost, know your State laws in terms of curfews and limitations. While many States leave curfews for teenagers to the discretion of local towns and cities, there are some States which impose a curfew for specific teenage drivers. Often, the curfew imposed on teen drivers is based upon age and with a graduating tier as you become older. For information on your State's driving curfew laws, visit your local Department of Transportation.

In addition to curfew, as a teen driver, you should become familiar with the processes and issues involved with motor vehicle accidents. While driver's education probably taught you the basics with regard to motor vehicle accident documentation, there are issues which may arise in the days after the accident. While your parents are, in most cases, financially and legally responsible for any accident to which you are at fault, there are some states which may permit your parents to avoid such responsibility and, instead, place the responsibility back upon the teenager. Such instances, generally, involve the parents filing claim of action in court demonstrating you, as the teen driver, have the financial resources and separate income to support your own damages.