When you are involved in a collision while on the road in Texas, it can be overwhelming. However, you should take the necessary measures to stop your car safely and gather your information to exchange with the other driver while waiting for the police to arrive. Unfortunately, you may soon realize the other driver has taken off, making you the victim of a hit-and-run collision. These instances can be upsetting and frustrating, leaving you unsure of how to proceed. The following blog explores what you should know about these matters, including the importance of working with a San Angelo, Texas car accident lawyer to help you explore your legal options.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Collision?
A hit-and-run, as the name suggests, occurs when a driver involved in, and often responsible for, a collision flees the scene. This is often done out of fear, to avoid responsibility for the collision, or even because they have a warrant out for their arrest. Regardless, this is a criminal offense in Texas, as it is the law that all drivers involved in a collision must remain at the scene until they are instructed that they can leave.
In Texas, including San Angelo, Odessa, and throughout Tom Green County, drivers involved in collisions are generally required to stop, exchange information, provide reasonable assistance to those injured, and wait for law enforcement to arrive, if applicable.
Common Reasons Drivers Leave the Scene
- Driving without insurance
- Outstanding arrest warrants
- Intoxication or drug impairment
- Panic after causing a serious collision
- Driving a stolen vehicle
- Avoiding financial responsibility
- Fear of arrest or criminal charges
What Do I Do if the Driver Flees the Scene?
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run, you’ll find that this can be incredibly upsetting. While your first instinct may be to follow the vehicle, it is strongly advised that you do not. When you are involved in an accident, you’ll find that you may have suffered injuries that inhibit your ability to safely drive a vehicle. As such, following the driver will only put you and others on the road at further risk. Similarly, attempting to chase the driver can cause them to become erratic, which can endanger you and others on the road as well.
Instead, you should remain at the scene and contact the police. Try to provide as much information about the offending vehicle as possible, like the make, model, color, and license plate. You should also speak with witnesses who may have seen the accident, as they can help provide additional information.
The police will be on the lookout for vehicles that match the description and have damage consistent with the collision. In the event they locate the driver, you can pursue a claim against them for the damage they caused. Similarly, they may be criminally charged for fleeing the scene after a collision.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Collision in Texas
- Call 911 and request both police and medical assistance at the scene
- Do not attempt to chase the driver
- If possible, move your vehicle out of the road and to a safe location
- Take photos and videos of the scene, including damage to your vehicle, your visible injuries, and any relevant road conditions or traffic signs
- Gather names and contact information from witnesses
- Seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor or you feel fine
- Try to document a full or partial plate of the vehicle that fled
- Look for nearby traffic cameras
What Information Should I Try to Document?
The more information you can provide San Angelo or Tom Green County law enforcement following a hit-and-run, the more your chances of catching the responsible party improve. Even seemingly small or minor details can help law enforcement locate the vehicle.
Important Details to Gather
- Make and model of the vehicle
- The vehicle’s color
- A full or partial license plate
- Physical description of the driver
- The direction in which the vehicle fled
- Visible damage to the vehicle
- Time and location of the collision
- Distinctive colors, decals, bumper stickers, or modifications
Can I Still Recover Compensation After a Hit-and-Run in West Texas?
In the event the driver responsible for your collision is not immediately located after fleeing the scene, you may still have options to recover compensation for the damages you’ve suffered in a hit-and-run collision in Tom Green County. However, your options will depend on your insurance coverage and the facts of the collision.
Potentially Recoverable Damages
- Emergency medical expenses
- Hospital and rehabilitation costs
- Vehicle repairs
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Ongoing medical expenses
- Long-term disability
- Pain and suffering
Contact an Experienced San Angelo Injury Attorney Today
Regardless of whether or not the driver is located, it is in your best interest to connect with an experienced personal injury attorney with the Mathis Law Firm, PLLC. Our team understands how upsetting a hit-and-run can be, which is why we will do everything in our power to help you recover the compensation you deserve. When you need help, our firm is here. Contact us today to learn how we can fight for you.
