When your teen gets their driver’s license, it’s a big milestone for both of you. But while it means more independence for them, it also brings new concerns for parents, especially when it comes to liability after a crash.

If your teen causes a car accident in Nevada, can you be held responsible for the damage? The short answer: yes, you can—but how and when you’re liable depends on several factors. At High Stakes Injury Law, we help families understand these risks and navigate what happens after a crash.

In Nevada, before a teen can get a learner’s permit or driver’s license, you’ll need to sign a Minor Affidavit (DP-38). By signing this form, you’re taking on financial and legal responsibility for your child’s actions behind the wheel.

You’re essentially vouching for their ability to drive safely—and you’re liable for any damage they may cause while driving negligently or recklessly.

Yes. If you believe your teen is not ready to drive responsibly, you can revoke your consent. The same DP-38 form has a cancellation section. Once you cancel, their license is no longer valid—and you must also make sure they don’t drive without one. If your teen drives unlicensed and causes a crash, you could still be held liable.

Nevada law (NRS 483.300) makes parents legally liable for their teen’s negligent or willful misconduct while driving. This includes:

• Injury or death of another person
• Damage to private or public property
• Any losses caused by reckless driving

In most cases, your auto insurance will cover these damages. That’s why it’s crucial to carry a policy with adequate limits, especially when a new teen driver is added.

Insurance companies know that teen drivers pose a higher risk—so your premiums will likely go up. But there are ways to lower costs:

• Good student discounts: Teens with a B average or better may save 10–20%
• Driver’s education: Some insurers offer discounts for course completion
• Safe driving behavior: Telematics or monitoring programs may reward careful driving

Also, don’t forget to notify your insurer as soon as your teen becomes fully licensed—even if they’re going away to college. Failing to do so could result in coverage gaps or a denied claim after an accident.

Talk to your insurance agent about coverage options that protect both your teen and your financial assets.

Under NRS 41.470, parents can be held jointly and severally liable for damages caused by their child’s willful misconduct. While your liability is capped at $10,000 for willful acts (like intentionally ramming another vehicle), you’re generally fully liable for your teen’s negligent driving.

Nevada enforces strict penalties for underage drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers under 21 is 0.02, and any violation can lead to license suspension and criminal charges.

If a parent knowingly supplies alcohol to their teen, and that teen causes a crash, the parent may also be held legally responsible.

Other license restrictions for new teen drivers include:

• No transporting passengers for the first 6 months
• Restrictions on nighttime driving
• Penalties for violations, including extended restrictions and fines

Driver’s ed is only the beginning. Parents play a key role in helping teens build experience and stay safe on the road. You can:

• Set a good example—your teen is watching how you drive
• Talk openly about responsibility and peer pressure
• Set firm rules about phones, music, and distractions
• Practice driving together in all types of conditions
• Encourage financial responsibility—having them contribute to gas or insurance can help
  

By staying involved, you can help your teen navigate real-world driving risks like:

• Aggressive drivers
• Road rage incidents
• Weather hazards
• Mechanical failures
• Impaired or distracted motorists

If your teen is involved in a crash—or if you’ve been injured by a young driver—our experienced Las Vegas car accident attorneys are here to help. At High Stakes Injury Law, we’ve recovered millions for crash victims and understand how Nevada law applies to teen drivers and parental liability. 

Call or text (702) 605-6671 or complete a Free Case Review form today. There’s no cost to speak with us—and no fees unless we win your case.