Summer is known as the “100 Deadliest Days” for teen drivers — the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day when car crashes involving teens surge. With school out and more time spent on the road, teenage drivers are at increased risk of causing serious accidents.
If you were injured by a teen driver in Missouri or Kansas, you may be entitled to compensation — but there are unique legal challenges involved.
At Monsees & Mayer, we help victims navigate the aftermath of these summer car accidents and hold negligent drivers — and their guardians — accountable.
Why Are Teen Driving Accidents More Common in Summer?
According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety:
- Teen crash fatalities increase by 26% in summer months
- Risk factors include:
- Inexperience
- Distraction (especially from phones or passengers)
- Speeding
- Impaired driving
- Nighttime driving without proper supervision
Even good kids can make dangerous driving mistakes — and those mistakes can have life-altering consequences for victims.
Who’s Liable When a Teen Causes a Crash?
In most cases, the teen driver — and their parent or legal guardian — can be held financially responsible.
Parental Liability May Apply When:
- The teen is under 18
- The parent owns the vehicle
- The parent knowingly allowed an unsafe driver to use the car
In some cases, the parent’s auto insurance policy may provide coverage — even if the teen wasn’t specifically listed.
Legal Steps to Take After a Teen Driving Accident
If you were injured in a crash caused by a teen driver, follow these critical steps:
- Call 911 and ensure the crash is documented with a police report
- Seek medical attention — even if symptoms are delayed
- Get the teen driver’s name, license info, and insurance policy
- Photograph the scene, damage, and any injuries
- Avoid speaking with insurance adjusters until you consult an attorney
- Contact Monsees & Mayer for a free case evaluation
What If You’re a Passenger Injured in a Teen-Driven Car?
You still have rights — even if you were friends with the driver. You may be able to file a claim against the teen’s insurance to recover compensatory damages for:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost income (past and future)
- Pain, suffering, and mental anguish (past and future)
Statute of Limitations in Missouri & Kansas
- Missouri: 5 years from the date of the crash or 3 years for wrongful death claims
- Kansas: 2 years for adults or until age 19 for minors.
But don’t wait — key evidence like traffic cam footage or witness statements may disappear quickly.
How Monsees & Mayer Can Help
Our experienced trial attorneys can:
- Investigate driver behavior and crash reports
- Identify all liable parties and insurance policies
- Handle communications with insurers
- Build a compelling case for maximum compensation
- Go to court if fair settlement isn’t offered
We’ve represented victims in hundreds of motor vehicle cases, and we fight tirelessly for those impacted by reckless or inexperienced drivers.
