Hit-and-run accidents can be traumatizing experiences that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, you must take certain steps to protect yourself, your property, and your legal rights as discussed in this article!
Hit and Run Accidents – Penalties
When someone is involved in an accident and then leaves without providing their contact information or helping injured persons, it’s considered to be a hit-and-run. All states take this offense seriously, and the punishments can vary greatly. Here is what you need to understand when it comes to the penalties attached to hit-and-runs:
1. Criminal Penalties
In Texas, hit-and-run accidents that result in fatalities or cause serious injury are considered a third-degree felony and may be punishable by two to ten years of imprisonment. If the damage is less than $200, it is a Class C misdemeanor with a fine of up to $500. In other cases, it can be punished with up to one year in county jail or up to five years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
2. Civil Penalties
Apart from criminal charges, a person who flees the site of an incident can also be subjected to civil sanctions. Such ramifications may include a lawsuit brought forward by the injured person or their nearest and dearest, claiming restitution for items such as lost wages, medical bills as well as discomfort and suffering.
3. License Suspension
If you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, your driver’s license may be suspended. A first-time offender may face a license suspension of up to one year, while repeat offenders may face longer suspensions or even revocation of their driver’s license.
Things to Do After Being Involved in a Hit & Run
After being in a hit-and-run, you should do the following things immediately:
1. Gather Information
After the accident, if possible, try to get as much information as you can about the fleeing car. This includes the vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate number. If you were unable to get the license plate number, any other identifying features could be helpful.
2. Call the police
Contacting the police is important after a hit-and-run accident, even if there are no injuries. The police will note your report that can be helpful in filing a claim with your insurance company. Additionally, the police may be able to gather evidence or witness statements, which can help identify the hit-and-run driver.
3. Assess Your Medical Condition
Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to assess your medical condition and seek proper care if necessary. Sometimes, injuries can take time to develop and may not be immediately apparent. Seek medical attention immediately if you’re experiencing any pain or discomfort.
4. Visual Proof
Taking photos of the accident scene can be helpful in documenting the damage and preserving evidence. If possible, take photos of your car, the other car (if it’s still there), and the surrounding area. Make sure to capture the location of the accident, any visible damage, and any other relevant details.
5. Speak to Witnesses
If there were witnesses, it would be best to speak with them and obtain any contact information. Witness statements can be helpful in identifying the hit-and-run driver and can be used as evidence in court. Ask for the witnesses’ names, email address, and phone numbers. Also, ask them if they would be willing to offer written statements about the accident.
How to Claim Insurance For a Hit and Run Accident?
While hit-and-run accidents can be complicated, it’s still possible to receive compensation for your damages and injuries. Here’s what you need to know about claiming insurance for a hit-and-run accident:
1. Contact Your Insurance Company
The first step is to contact your insurance company. Provide as much information as possible about the accident, including the make and model of the other car (if you were able to get it), the location and time of the accident, and any witness statements you may have.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy
Review your insurance policy to see what type of coverage you have for hit-and-run accidents. In some cases, hit-and-run accidents might get covered under uninsured motorist coverage. This type of coverage can help pay for damages and injuries caused by a driver who doesn’t have insurance or who flees the scene of the accident.
3. Provide Evidence
To support your insurance claim, it’s important to provide evidence of your damages and injuries. This includes accident scene photos, doctor bills, and receipts for any repairs to your car.
4. Consider Legal Representation
If you’ve suffered serious injuries or your insurance claim has been denied or undervalued, it may be necessary to hire a Houston car accident lawyer. A skilled lawyer can help negotiate with your insurance company, gather additional evidence, and represent you in court if necessary.
Conclusion
If you have been a hit-and-run accident victim, it is important to take the appropriate precautions to guarantee your safety and legal entitlements. Initially, collect all pertinent data and contact the police. Moreover, should you sustain an injury in the incident, immediately dial 911 for medical attention.
