If my daughter crashed my car when joyriding with friends, should I press charges against her?
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If my daughter crashed my car when joyriding with friends, should I press charges against her?
They hit a tree. She is 16 and found my spare key while alone in our home. Another friend wrecked the car and they all left it.
Asked on April 12, 2015 under Accident Law, Florida
Answers:
S.L,. Member, California Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
Although you could press charges for auto theft against your daughter, that would NOT be a good idea because a conviction on that charge will be a barrier to future employment.
Unfortunately, you are liable for the accident because you are the registered owner of the vehicle.
You could sue the parents of your daughter's friend, who was driving, and wrecked your car. Your damages (monetary compensation you are seeking in your lawsuit) would be the value of the car.
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