Why Hit-and-Run Accidents Are Different
A hit-and-run accident in Texas can leave victims feeling frustrated, helpless, and overwhelmed. One moment you’re driving safely, and the next, another driver crashes into you and flees the scene. In Texas, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious crime, but that doesn’t always help victims recover damages quickly. At The Miller Law Firm – Home of The Texas Bulldog, we fight aggressively for people injured in hit-and-run accidents to secure justice and compensation.
Table of Contents
- What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run Accident in Texas?
- What To Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Crash
- Texas Hit-and-Run Laws and Penalties
- Compensation for Hit-and-Run Victims
- Proving-Liability-in-a-Hit-and-Run-Case
- Steps to Strengthen Your Claim
- FAQs: Hit-and-Run Accidents in Texas
- Contact The Texas Bulldog for Help
What Is Considered a Hit-and-Run Accident in Texas?
Under Texas Transportation Code, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident fails to:
- Stop at the scene
- Provide contact and insurance information
- Render aid if someone is injured
This can involve car-to-car collisions, pedestrian accidents, or crashes with bicyclists. Even minor fender benders can qualify as hit-and-runs if the at-fault driver flees without fulfilling their legal duty.
What To Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Crash
Follow these steps to protect yourself and your claim:
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident.
- Seek medical attention — even minor symptoms may indicate serious injuries.
- Document the scene by taking photos of vehicle damage, injuries, and surroundings.
- Collect witness statements if anyone saw the fleeing driver.
- Provide a full police report — details like color, make, or license plate can help locate the driver.
- Notify your insurance company but avoid giving a recorded statement without legal advice.
- Call a hit-and-run accident lawyer to begin protecting your rights.
Texas Hit-and-Run Laws and Penalties
Texas law takes hit-and-run crashes seriously. Penalties depend on the severity of the accident:
- Property damage only: Misdemeanor, up to 1 year in jail.
- Injury: Felony, up to 5 years in prison.
- Serious injury or death: Second-degree felony, 2–20 years in prison.
Even if the driver is never caught, victims still have options for financial recovery.
Compensation for Hit-and-Run Victims
Victims of hit-and-run accidents may be able to recover damages through:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM): Covers injuries and property damage when the at-fault driver cannot be found.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Helps with medical expenses and lost wages.
- Civil lawsuits: If the driver is later identified, you may sue for full compensation.
Damages can include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death (in fatal cases)
Proving Liability in a Hit-and-Run Case
Proving liability in a hit-and-run can be challenging. Our firm works with investigators, accident reconstruction experts, and witness statements to piece together what happened. Video surveillance from nearby businesses or traffic cameras often provides crucial evidence.
Steps to Strengthen Your Claim
The sooner you involve a lawyer, the stronger your case becomes.
FAQs: Hit-and-Run Accidents in Texas
Q: What should I do if I was injured in a hit-and-run and the driver wasn’t found?
A: You can still make a claim through your UM/UIM coverage. A lawyer can help maximize recovery.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: In Texas, the statute of limitations is typically 2 years from the date of the accident.
Q: Can I get compensation if I was a pedestrian in a hit-and-run?
A: Yes. Pedestrians injured in hit-and-runs are also covered under UM/UIM policies.
Q: What penalties do hit-and-run drivers face in Texas?
A: Depending on the severity, drivers can face misdemeanors or felonies, including up to 20 years in prison.
Real Client Reviews
“Thank you so much! Your kindness and patience with me when I was impatient, yes I had plenty of financial fears going into this. The relief that ALL my medical bills were paid and I still walked away with money made it all worth it! Erica and Julia were awesome! God bless you all” – Oneal T. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“I love him. He took very good care of me and I would recommend him to anybody who needs help.” – Cynthia ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Contact The Texas Bulldog for Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident in Texas, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Call The Miller Law Firm – The Texas Bulldog today for a free consultation.
📍 4900 Woodway Drive, Suite 900, Houston, TX 77056
📞 (713) 572-3333
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