All car crashes are stressful events. When another driver flees the scene of the wreck, that stress can be magnified. While leaving after an accident is selfish and wrong, some drivers do so because they are uninsured, do not have a driver’s license, or have a warrant out for their arrest.

When you have experienced injuries in a hit and run car accident in Houston, you may not know what to do next. One of our experienced car accident attorneys may be able to help you understand and protect your legal rights and obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries.

What is a Hit and Run Accident?

A hit and run involves the failure of a driver to remain at the site of a crash and fulfill their legal duties when it involves serious injury or death. Texas Transportation Code § 550.021 provides that any time there is a collision between two vehicles that causes an injury, or is reasonably likely to cause an injury, all drivers involved must stop and see whether anyone else at the scene needs medical attention or other aid.

Texas Transportation Code § 550.023 states that, while at the scene, each driver must also provide the other with their name, address, insurance information, and the registration number of their car. They must also show their driver’s license upon request and provide any reasonable assistance to anyone injured in the collision, including ensuring that person can get to a doctor or hospital. Failure to meet any of these requirements may be a felony in some circumstances.

In addition to these criminal proceedings, a person injured by a hit-and-run driver in Houston may need to file a civil lawsuit to recover compensation for the injuries the other driver caused them in the accident.

What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident

After experiencing a hit and run car crash in the Houston area, there are several steps to be sure to take:

  • Do not follow the fleeing driver – the person may be desperate or dangerous; in addition, leaving the scene, even to follow another driver, may cause an injured person to be in violation of their own responsibilities after a crash
  • Take pictures or make notes of any identifying information about the driver leaving the scene – this may include a personal description, the make and model of their car, or their car’s license plate number
  • Call the police and be sure to mention that another driver left the scene and provide them with any of the information about that driver available
  • See if anyone still at the scene needs immediate medical attention or other assistance
  • Document as much of the crash scene as possible
  • See a doctor regarding any injuries received and to ensure that no other medical issues are present from the wreck

Once the above is accomplished, reach out to an attorney as soon as possible. Even if a lawsuit does not end up being necessary, a lawyer could help the injured person understand their rights and options, whether the other driver who fled the scene is found or not.

Seek Help from a Houston Attorney Experienced in Hit and Run Crashes

After a hit and run car accident in Houston, you may feel at a loss. A lawyer may be able to help you by investigating the crash, negotiating with the insurance companies, and, if necessary, filing a lawsuit to provide you with the financial recovery you need for the costs the wreck forced you to bear.

Schedule an initial consultation with one of our attorneys today to learn more about how they could help.