Car accidents are scary enough, but when a hit-and-run happens, everyone experiences a lot of confusion. You may not know what to do after a hit-and-run car accident, but there are several steps you can take to protect yourself. Keep in mind that even if you don’t know who caused the accident, you still have legal options.
The Texas hit-and-run lawyers at Lee, Gober & Reyna are here to answer your questions and make you feel more comfortable about the future. We will fight for your right to get compensation regardless of what happened.
What Is a Hit-and-Run?
A hit-and-run is a traffic accident where the driver who causes the crash leaves the scene without providing any information or assistance. Hit-and-runs are illegal and can have serious consequences for the driver who leaves as well as anyone who is injured and sustains losses.
What Is the Sentence for a Hit-and-Run in Texas?
The at-fault driver who leaves the scene can receive criminal charges in Texas. The specific penalties depend on the outcome of the wreck, but may include:
- Misdemeanor Hit-and-Run: If there is only property damage, the driver may get a Class C misdemeanor and fines of up to $500.
- Third-Degree Felony: If there are injuries, but they are not serious, penalties can include up to 10 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
- Second-Degree Felony: If there are serious bodily injuries, penalties can include up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $10,000.
- First-Degree Felony: If the accident results in death, penalties can result in life imprisonment and fines of up to $10,000.
In addition to these penalties, a conviction can result in the loss of a driver’s license, increased insurance premiums, and a criminal record that will affect employment and other opportunities.
How Are Hit-and-Runs Handled in Texas?
There are certain steps you should take after a hit-and-run to protect your physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing.
Get Medical Treatment Immediately
The first thing you should do is call 911 and request an ambulance. You need to be seen by emergency medical personnel to establish a baseline for your injuries. This will be used in your future insurance claims.
Make a Police Report
When the police arrive at the scene of the accident, tell them everything you know. If anyone else witnessed the crash, you should direct the police to them as well. The accident report will be a valuable tool in your claim.
Document the Scene
Take pictures and video of the accident scene if you are able. If you cannot, ask someone else to do so and have them send you the information via email. Write down anything you remember about the vehicle and obtain contact information for all witnesses.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance company about the hit-and-run accident as soon as possible. Follow their instructions for filing a claim to provide them with all necessary information.
Contact an Austin Hit-and-Run Lawyer
Your Texas car accident attorney can help you gather evidence and find the person who is responsible for the hit-and-run accident. Even if they aren’t able to identify the at-fault driver, your lawyer can help you file an accident claim with your own insurance company to get the maximum compensation possible.
What Are My Legal Options After a Hit-and-Run?
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you may have several legal options to seek compensation for your damages and injuries. Here are some potential avenues:
Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage
If you have UM coverage on your insurance policy, you can file a claim with your own insurance company to recover damages. UM coverage is designed to protect you in situations where the at-fault driver is uninsured or unidentified.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) Coverage
PIP coverage can help you cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other related costs, regardless of who is at fault. Your insurance company will likely offer this coverage first.
File a Lawsuit Against the At-Fault Driver
In some cases, you may be able to file a lawsuit against the at-fault driver, even if they are unidentified. This may be possible if you can gather enough evidence to identify the driver, the owner of the vehicle, or their insurance company. An experienced Texas hit-and-run attorney can help you navigate the legal process.
Injured in a Hit-and-Run in Austin, TX? Call Lee, Gober & Reyna Today.
Lee, Gober & Reyna have a hit-and-run legal team that is ready to fight for you. We have state-of-the-art technology that we can use to identify the responsible party in your car accident. We will gather evidence, conduct an investigation, and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Hit-and-run victim? Explore your legal options – schedule a free case review today!