What to do if I’m a minor an intoxicated friend asked me to drive her car for her but I had an accident?
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What to do if I’m a minor an intoxicated friend asked me to drive her car for her but I had an accident?
As we are making our way home, I came to a 4-way signal light and the car on the right side proceeded to try and run the red light . Instead of going, they came to a complete stop in the middle of the intersection as it was my light to go. I had no time to stop; I slammed on my breaks and hit their bumper. At this point I was franti, and my friend told me to leave the scene and go home. She didn’t have insurance or a license but was an adult. Now, over a year later, she is caught and is trying to lay everything on me since I was the driver. What should I do in court and will I be held responsible? Also what charges might I face?
Asked on October 23, 2014 under Criminal Law, California
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 9 years ago | Contributor
I know that this is not what you want to hear but it is really important that you tell your parents and have them speak with a lawyer on your behalf. Driving with out a license does not necessarily mean you were negligent and responsible for the accident. Lawyers say it is not an "indicia" of negligence. It is, however, a violation in and of itself. You were trying to be responsible and the adult in the situation was directing your actions. While you should not have left the scene of the accident (that could also be a problem) you were trying to be responsible. Please seek help. Good luck.
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