Can a parent be held liable for their children who text and drive?

A parent can be held liable for children who text and drive under limited circumstances. If the parent knows that the child texts and drives and fails to take adequate steps to prevent distracted driving than the parent may be subject to civil liability. The best way to prevent distracted driving or text driving is to download an app that prevents a cell phone from operating while the vehicle is in motion. The parent may also be liable if the parent signs to be jointly liable for damages occurring from negligence. In order to avoid this the parent should ensure the minor has his or her own insurance policy.