Hit and Run Lawyer: Seeking Justice for Victims Abandoned at the Scene
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Being involved in a car accident is traumatic, but when the at-fault driver flees the scene, the situation becomes even more overwhelming. Victims of hit-and-run accidents face challenges that go beyond the injuries and property damage they’ve suffered. Identifying the driver, navigating insurance coverage without their information, and pursuing rightful compensation can feel impossible without guidance.
That’s where an experienced hit-and-run lawyer comes in. Our personal injury attorneys work to protect your rights, build your case, and pursue the compensation you deserve after a hit-and-run accident.
Call (972) 848-4848 for a free case evaluation today. We’ll listen to your story, explain your legal options, and help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
What Is Considered a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without providing identification, insurance information, or aid to injured victims. These auto accidents can involve cars, pedestrians, cyclists, or even property damage to parked vehicles or structures.
Texas law requires all drivers to stop, exchange information, and render aid if someone is hurt. Failing to do so is not only irresponsible but also a criminal offense that can result in misdemeanor or felony charges, depending on the severity of injuries.
Hit and run accidents often happen because drivers fear legal consequences, panic in shock, or deliberately try to avoid liability for causing the car crash. Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene makes it more difficult for accident victims to get the help and compensation they deserve.
Legal Obligations After a Car Accident in Texas
Drivers in Texas are legally required to:
- Stop immediately at the scene of the accident.
- Provide aid to anyone who is injured.
- Exchange names, addresses, license numbers, and insurance details.
- Report the accident to law enforcement if there is an injury, death, or more than $1,000 in property damage.
When a driver leaves the scene without meeting these obligations, they not only break the law but also make it harder for victims to pursue a successful accident claim. A hit and run accident attorney can help ensure victims comply with reporting laws, gather evidence, and move forward with the claims process.
Steps to Take After a Hit and Run Accident
If you’ve been injured in a hit-and-run accident, your actions at the scene can make a significant difference in your accident case.
- Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical help.
- Seek medical care, even if injuries aren’t obvious — concussions and internal injuries often appear later.
- Write down any details about the fleeing driver’s vehicle, such as make, model, color, or partial license plate.
- Look for witnesses and collect their contact information.
- Take photos and videos of the accident scene, property damage, and injuries.
- Contact a car accident lawyer to guide you through the claims process and protect your rights.
- Have your car accident attorney notify your insurance company, handle communications on your behalf, and file a claim to pursue the compensation you deserve.
Mistakes to Avoid After a Hit-and-Run
Certain mistakes can weaken your claim and reduce your chance of compensation:
- Leaving the scene before police arrive (unless you need emergency care).
- Chasing the driver, which can put you at risk.
- Negotiating with witnesses or posting about the crash on social media.
- Accepting a quick settlement offer from an insurer before knowing the full extent of your damages.
An experienced car accident attorney can help you avoid these pitfalls and focus on strengthening your accident claim.
Can You File a Claim If the At-Fault Driver Is Never Found?
Yes. Even when the at-fault driver flees the scene without being identified, you may still recover compensation. Several insurance coverages may apply:
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage — helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Collision coverage — covers the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) — covers medical bills and lost income up to your policy limit.
Medical Payments (MedPay) — helps with hospital bills and related costs.
Since every policy is different, reviewing your coverage with a hit-and-run accident lawyer can help determine which benefits apply.
Compensation Available When the Driver Is Identified
If police locate the driver who caused the accident, you may pursue a claim against their insurance or file a lawsuit for damages, such as:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, rehabilitation, and future care.
- Property damage to your vehicle and belongings.
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive damages are awarded in car accident cases involving reckless or intentional behavior, such as driving under the influence.
Our hit and run attorneys can calculate damages accurately and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Speak With A Hit-And-Run Lawyer For Free
Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene of an Accident?
While every case is different, common reasons drivers leave the scene include:
- Fear of legal consequences if uninsured, unlicensed, or intoxicated.
- Panic and shock immediately after the collision.
- Unaware that they caused the accident (in rare cases).
- Avoiding financial responsibility for damages and insurance increases.
Regardless of the excuse, leaving the scene of an accident is a crime, and injury victims have the right to pursue justice and financial recovery.
Penalties for Hit and Run Accidents in Texas
Criminal penalties depend on the severity of the accident:
Property damage only — a misdemeanor offense with possible fines and jail time.
Injury accidents — a third-degree felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison.
Fatal accidents — a second-degree felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
These criminal charges can also strengthen your civil accident case, making it easier to prove negligence and secure compensation.
How Insurance Companies Handle Hit-and-Run Accident Claims
Insurance companies often use tactics designed to minimize payouts, such as:
- Delaying claims to pressure you into settling.
- Disputing medical treatment or arguing that injuries are unrelated
- Underestimating damages to lower settlement offers.
- Requesting recorded statements to use against you.
An experienced hit-and-run lawyer can step in to negotiate, present evidence, and ensure insurance companies treat you fairly.
How Evidence Helps Identify Fleeing Drivers
Identifying the at-fault driver is critical for car accident victims. Helpful evidence includes:
- Surveillance footage from intersections, businesses, or home cameras.
- Witness statements with vehicle details.
- Physical evidence, such as broken parts or paint chips left at the accident scene.
- Police resources, including license plate readers and traffic cameras.
- Social media posts from witnesses.
When this evidence is pieced together, victims stand a much better chance of holding the hit-and-run accident driver accountable.
Special Challenges in Pedestrian Hit-and-Run Accidents
When pedestrians are injured in a hit-and-run accident, injuries are often severe due to a lack of protection. Challenges include:
- Fewer witnesses and less evidence to identify the vehicle.
- Extensive medical treatment and serious injuries such as broken bones or traumatic brain injuries.
- Insurers disputing pedestrian fault, such as claims of improper crossing.
A personal injury lawyer can help pedestrians file UM/UIM claims under their own auto insurance policies, negotiate with insurers, and pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional trauma.
Why Hiring a Hit and Run Accident Attorney Matters
Trying to handle a hit-and-run case without legal help can be overwhelming. An attorney can:
- Investigate the accident scene and collect crucial evidence.
- Work with law enforcement to locate the driver.
- Calculate damages and build a strong accident claim.
- Negotiate with insurance companies and, if necessary, file a lawsuit.
With a knowledgeable car accident lawyer on your side, you can focus on recovery while we fight for the compensation you deserve.
Speak With a Hit‑and‑Run Lawyer Today
If you were hurt in a hit-and-run accident, don’t face the insurance companies alone. Our injury lawyers at Allbee Law Firm will fight to protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Call (972) 848-4848 to schedule a free consultation and discuss your case. We’ll review your accident, explain your legal options, and stand by your side every step of the way.
Hit and Run Accident Lawyer FAQs
What is the statute of limitations for hit-and-run cases in Texas?
In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to pursue compensation. However, uninsured motorist (UM) claims can have a longer deadline — up to four years in some hit-and-run cases — since they are based on breach of contract rather than injury law. Because the timelines can vary depending on whether you are pursuing a personal injury lawsuit or a UM insurance claim, it’s crucial to consult an attorney promptly to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Can You Recover Damages If You Were Partly at Fault?
Yes. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. If you’re partially at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if you are 20% responsible and awarded $50,000, you receive $40,000. If your fault is more than 50%, you cannot recover damages. A lawyer works to minimize your fault and maximize your compensation.
Do Hit and Run Cases Often Go to Trial?
Most cases settle without going to trial. However, your lawyer prepares every case as if it may go to trial, which strengthens negotiation. If the insurer refuses to offer a fair settlement, your attorney may file a lawsuit. Trials are time‑consuming, but sometimes necessary to achieve justice.
How Long Does a Hit and Run Case Take?
The timeline depends on factors like injury severity, complexity of the case, and cooperation from insurers. Simple cases may settle within months, while more complicated cases involving severe injuries or disputed liability may take a year or longer. Your attorney provides a realistic timeline based on your case.
Can You File a Hit-And-Run Lawsuit Without an Attorney?
You can technically file a lawsuit on your own, but hit‑and‑run cases are complex. Insurance companies have legal teams skilled at minimizing payouts. A hit‑and‑run lawyer ensures you gather evidence, navigate insurance policies, and present a compelling case. Legal representation increases your chances of a favorable outcome.