Can I Be Held Liable for Damages if I Cause an Accident While Driving With a Permit?

Yes. California permit holders can face liability for auto accidents they cause, just like any other driver. Several factors help determine who bears responsibility after a collision, such as:

  • Whether you followed all permit restrictions and had proper supervision
  • Whether you violated any traffic laws
  • The actions of other drivers involved in the collision
  • The actions of the supervising driver
  • Road conditions and visibility factors
  • Evidence from witnesses, police reports, and accident reconstruction experts

What Happens if a Learner Driver Gets Into an Accident Without Supervision?

Driving without the required supervision violates your permit conditions and can result in serious consequences that can affect your driving future. Potential penalties include:

  • Permit suspension or revocation
  • Fines and penalties for violating permit restrictions
  • Liability for damages and injuries caused by the crash
  • Criminal charges, depending on the driver’s actions (e.g., impairment, reckless driving, etc.)

The vehicle owner also faces potential consequences for allowing unsupervised permit driving, including:

  • Liability claims for negligent entrustment of their vehicle
  • Potential insurance claim disputes due to permit violations
  • Higher insurance premiums following the car accident
  • Potential lawsuits from injured parties seeking compensation

Can I Drive Alone With an Instruction Permit?

No. California Vehicle Code § 12814.6 requires instruction permit holders to be supervised by a licensed driver at all times. For drivers under 18, the supervising driver must be at least 25 years old and seated close enough to take control of the vehicle in an emergency. For drivers 18 and older, the supervising driver must be at least 18 years old, properly licensed, and seated close enough to take control of the vehicle.

Can Parents or Guardians Be Sued if Their Teen With a Learner’s Permit Causes an Accident?

Yes. When a teen with a learner’s permit causes an accident, claims are typically brought against the auto insurance policy covering the vehicle, which is often held by a parent or legal guardian.

Parents could face liability for several reasons:

  • Vicarious liability – Under California Vehicle Code § 17707, a parent or guardian who signed a minor’s permit or license application may be legally responsible for the minor’s negligent driving.
  • Negligent entrustment – Allowing an inexperienced or incompetent teen to drive creates liability when that decision leads to harm.

Should I Hire a Lawyer After an Accident With a Learner’s Permit?

It’s wise to consult an experienced car accident attorney after an accident involving an instruction permit driver. These crashes raise complex liability issues. A lawyer can determine who is at fault and develop a strategy to seek fair compensation.

If you need legal advice after an accident involving a permit driver, contact Demas Law Group for a free consultation. We’ll evaluate your case and explain your legal rights moving forward.