Back to School and Teen Drivers in Michigan: What Parents Need to Know About Safety and Liability

A New School Year, New Drivers — and New Risks

As the back-to-school season approaches across Michigan communities like Oakland County, Wayne County, and Macomb County, many families are preparing for more than just school supplies and class schedules. For parents of teens, this time of year may also mark the start of a new chapter: teen drivers getting behind the wheel.

Whether your teen is driving themselves to school for the first time or carpooling with friends, it’s normal to feel both excited and anxious. You may be wondering:

• What if my teen causes a crash — am I liable?
• Can we get help if someone else causes an accident?
• What legal rights do we have after a teen driver injury in Michigan?

At Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC, we help families navigate the legal side of teen driving accidents — so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

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What Are the Legal Protections for Teen Drivers in Michigan?

Michigan has a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system that allows teens to build driving experience over time. Still, accidents happen — especially during the busy school season, when roads are more crowded and distractions are high.

Here’s what you need to know:

• If your teen is injured in a crash, Michigan’s No-Fault insurance laws may cover medical bills, lost wages, and other costs.
• If your teen causes an accident, your auto insurance may be responsible for the other party’s damages — and yes, you may be legally responsible as the parent or car owner.
• If someone else’s carelessness caused the crash, you may be able to pursue a personal injury claim for additional compensation.

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Can I Sue After a Teen Driving Accident in Michigan?

Yes — in certain situations, you or your teen may be able to recover damages beyond what insurance provides.

You may have a case if:

• Another driver was negligent (e.g., texting while driving, speeding, ignoring signs)
• Your teen suffered serious injuries that go beyond no-fault coverage
• There were long-term effects like disability, scarring, or emotional trauma

These cases can involve complex questions of fault, liability, and insurance coverage. A skilled Michigan car accident lawyer can help you understand your rights and protect your family’s future.

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Why It’s So Important to Get Medical Care — Even for Seemingly Minor Injuries

Many teens try to “tough it out” after a crash, but that can be a mistake. Injuries like concussions, whiplash, or internal bleeding aren’t always obvious right away.

Getting medical care right away helps:

• Protect your teen’s health
• Document the injury, which is key in any insurance or legal case
• Prevent the insurance company from claiming the injury wasn’t serious

Even if the emergency room says your teen is “okay,” follow up with their doctor and monitor for symptoms.

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What to Do After a Teen Driving Accident in Michigan

Here’s a quick guide for parents and families:

• Get medical attention — even if injuries seem minor
• Report the accident to the police and get a copy of the report
• Notify your auto insurance company right away
• Take photos of the damage, injuries, and accident scene
• Collect witness names and contact info if possible
• Don’t give recorded statements to any insurance company without legal advice
• Call a personal injury lawyer to understand your legal options

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You Don’t Have to Handle This Alone

At Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC, we know how overwhelming a car crash can be — especially when it involves your child. Our team has years of experience helping families across Michigan get the answers, support, and compensation they deserve.

We offer free consultations with no pressure and no fees unless we win your case. If you have questions about your teen’s accident, your rights, or what to do next, we’re here to help. We Tip the Scales and Fight for Every Dollar You Deserve.

Call us today at (248) 538-1494 or contact us online to get started. Let our team stand by your family’s side when it matters most.

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Serving Clients Across Michigan

• Southfield personal injury lawyer
• Detroit accident attorney
• Macomb County slip and fall attorney
• Wayne County personal injury law firm
• Oakland County injury lawyer
• Bloomfield Hills car accident attorney
• Birmingham accident lawyer
• Farmington Hills personal injury lawyer

No matter where you live in Michigan, the team at Steinberg Goodman Law PLLC is here to guide you, protect you, and fight for you.