If teenage son has accident, am I liable?

[marlon71usa]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Illinois

Just wanted to get a bit of advice on my issue. My stepson just turned 17 less than a month ago. The day he turned 16 him and his mother constantly bugged me to take him for his drivers license, which I did soon after. He just bought a car that is 16 years old. I really didn't want him to buy a car. I mentioned that school should be his main concern. Since he has a minimum wage job and saved for car I wasn't too concerned. Car is currently sitting because he has no insurance, plates, or tags. I overheard him telling his mother he would just get SR-22 insurance which made me cringe.

The reason he isn't on our policy is because my wife gave him a 2001 Infiniti which he totaled within 2 months.

My question is with his age... even though he will have to get his own insurance. If he were to have any kind of accident, be it property damage or injuring someone. Will I in some way be held responsible? Morally or financially.

Thanks

[ecmst12]

If your name isn't on the title or the registration or the insurance, then I don't see how you could be held responsible. As long as he has at least state minimum coverage, then he can drive legally.

[marlon71usa]

I was just wondering because he is still a minor and resides with us.

This sue happy society is what made me think of this question.

[Roo]

I think if there's an accident that exceeds his coverage they will look to you.
Just because he doesn't have enough insurance doesn't relieve his responsibility to pay.
If that were the case everyone would carry only the minimum amount of insurance.
Your agent can provide the best advice.

[ecmst12]

They may look, but that doesn't mean she wil have any responsibility. It's not even her kid!