A minor can be liable for negligent actions if they do not behave carefully compared to what others of the same age would consider reasonable. When driving a car, an underage person is held to the same standards as an adult. You may have the opportunity to file a claim against them. You likely will collect compensation from the parent’s insurance since the child has money of their own.
California has a few parental responsibility laws when an underage person causes an accident. Parents can be jointly responsible for any damages that arise from an underage person driving. California Vehicle Code section 17707 imposes liability on the parent or legal guardian who signed a driver’s license application for the minor.