WHAT TO DO IF YOU ARE INJURED IN A HIT AND RUN
According to the most recent report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were about 737,100 hit-and-run traffic crashes in the United States in 2015. Being involved in an accident can be a difficult experience. It is even more traumatic if the driver that hits you leaves the accident scene without providing any identifying information or assistance. If you or a loved one were involved in a hit-and-run accident, hiring an experienced Texas personal injury attorney is crucial to help build your case and advocate for your rights.
At The Fostel Law Firm, I'm dedicated to offering comprehensive legal guidance and vigorous representation to victims of hit-and-run accidents and their family members. As your legal counsel, I can evaluate the details of your personal situation, conduct a thorough investigation, and explore your available legal options to recover damages for your injuries. I will fight compassionately to protect your legal rights and help pursue fair financial compensation for your injuries, damages, or loss. The Fostel Law Firm is a nationwide practice, and I am willing to review your case free of charge.
Texas Requirements When an Accident Occurs
According to Texas Transportation Code Section 550.021 – 550.026, the driver of any motor vehicle involved in an accident that results in an injury, death, or property damage must:
Immediately stop the vehicle or return to the accident scene.
Determine whether a person is involved in the accident.
Provide any injured person with reasonable assistance or aid.
Give their name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to the injured person.
Report the accident to the local police department or the nearest sheriff's office.
Remain at the accident scene until all the above requirements have been complied with.
Failure to stop at the accident scene and comply with the above requirements is considered a criminal offense, punishable by up to five years in county jail, a maximum fine of $5,000, or both.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Provision
In the state of Texas, the Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) policy provides coverage to accident victims who were hit by a motorist without insurance or one who did not have adequate insurance to cover the medical bills and vehicle repairs of the injured person. The UM/UIM policy also provides coverage for hit-and-run accident victims who are unable to identify the at-fault party.
Steps to Take if You Were in a Hit and Run
The steps you take following a hit-and-run accident can have significant impacts on your ability to recover compensation for your injuries. Here's what you should do if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident:
Stay Put: Get to safety and do not pursue the person who is fleeing the scene.
Capture Relevant Details About the Car: Take note of as many details as possible. Write down everything you can possibly remember, such as the car manufacturer, model, and color. You can also note any unique identifying marks on the car like bumper stickers, dents, and the license plate number.
Note Details About the Driver: Take note of specific details about the driver, such as the driver's appearance, gender, estimated age, what the driver was wearing, facial hair, eyeglasses, and other details.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention: Call 911 and seek immediate medical help for your injuries. Even if you don't feel any sign of pain or injuries immediately, ensure that you have a medical evaluation that day.
Look for Witnesses: Search for any witnesses who saw the accident and get their contact information. You can also look for security cameras at nearby parking lots or businesses that captured the accident scene.
Gather Evidence: Gather available evidence at the accident scene, such as photographs, video footage, pictures of injuries, as well as your personal account of the incident.
Notify the Authorities: Report the accident to the local police department or nearest law enforcement office.
Notify Your Insurance Provider: Promptly inform your insurance carrier about the hit-and-run accident.
Hire an Attorney: Hire an experienced personal injury attorney to help negotiate a fair settlement with the insurer or file a personal injury lawsuit.
Getting the Experienced Legal Support You Need
At The Fostel Law Firm, I have devoted my career to providing outstanding legal services and handling complex personal injury claims involving hit-and-run accidents. Using my extensive experience and legal understanding, I can help you build your case, gather the required evidence, and guide you through complicated legal proceedings. Never put your fate in the hands of insurance providers that won't protect your legal rights. I can fight vigorously for your best interests and help to recover fair financial compensation for your injuries, lost wages, pain and suffering, or loss.
Contact my firm – The Fostel Law Firm – today to schedule a simple case assessment with an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney. I can offer you the detailed legal counsel, support, and compassionate representation you need in your personal injury claims. My firm proudly represents clients in and around Houston, Texas, and the Southeast New Mexico area.