Expert: Richard Hixenbaugh - 3/6/2009

Question
Hello-

 I live in Virginia, and my 15 year old step-son was involved in a car accident two weeks ago when the teenage friend who was driving him decided to drag race another car. Thankfully, no one was seriously injured but he was extremely sore (they hit another car going 70 mph in a 35 mph zone) and will probably be going to a chiropractor for a few months.

 My question is, a claims representative for the driver's insurance company called my step-son "to see how [he] are doing". He did not ask to speak to his parents (us), but was blatantly trying to get information from my step-son. He is 15!
 
 So my question is, is it legal for these companies to contact minor children to speak with them in leiu of their parents?

Answer
Hi Morgan,

No it is not legal for them to contact your son. You should send the claims adjuster a letter by certified mail/return receipt requested reminding them that your son is a minor and they are not to contact him or speak to him again with out your permission and your being present. You should also instruct your son that if he does receive any more calls from anyone regarding the accident that he is to simply refer them to you and not to have any conversation with them.

I hope this helps
Richard Hixenbaugh