What if the Driver Who Hit Me Didn’t Stop to Exchange Information?
Car accidents are stressful enough, but the situation becomes even more challenging when the driver who caused the accident flees the scene without stopping to exchange information. Known as a hit-and-run, this type of incident can leave victims feeling helpless and unsure of how to proceed. At the Turley Law Firm, our experienced Dallas car accident attorneys understand how overwhelming these circumstances can be, and we’re here to guide you through the next steps to protect your rights and pursue compensation. See below for a general discussion, and contact our office if this has happened to you for personalized advice custom-tailored to your specific situation.
What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in an accident leaves the scene without providing their contact and insurance information or rendering aid to anyone who may have been injured. In Texas, leaving the scene of an accident is a criminal offense, and penalties can range from fines to imprisonment, depending on the severity of the accident and injuries involved.
Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your health, your rights, and your ability to seek compensation. Here are some important steps to take:
1. Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your health and safety are the top priorities. Move to a safe location if possible and call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, it’s wise to get checked by a medical professional, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent but still require prompt attention.
2. Gather Information
While the at-fault driver may have fled, gathering as much information as possible about the accident can strengthen your case. Try to record the following details:
- The make, model, color, and license plate number of the fleeing vehicle (if you noticed it; even a partial plate can help).
- The direction the driver was heading.
- The time, location, and circumstances of the accident.
- Contact information for any witnesses who saw the crash.
3. File a Police Report
Notify law enforcement about the hit-and-run as soon as possible. Provide them with all the information you collected. A police report will be critical when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action.
4. Document the Scene
Take photographs of the accident scene, including damage to your vehicle, debris on the road, skid marks, and any visible injuries. This evidence can be valuable in building your case.
5. Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance provider about the accident. Texas law requires drivers to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance, but in hit-and-run cases, uninsured motorist (UM) coverage can play a key role. UM coverage is designed to compensate you when the at-fault driver cannot be identified or doesn’t have insurance. You have this coverage as part of your auto policy unless you specifically decline it in writing.
Pursuing Compensation After a Hit-and-Run
Hit-and-run accidents can complicate the process of obtaining compensation, but it’s not impossible. Depending on the circumstances, you may have several options for recovering damages:
- Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you have UM coverage as part of your auto insurance policy, you can file a claim to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. It is still important to contact an attorney if you suffered an injury from the incident. Even though you are contacting your own insurance company rather than that of the other driver, you could still encounter difficulties and are unlikely to receive as large a settlement as you could with a lawyer representing you.
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Texas drivers are also required to carry PIP unless they opt out in writing. This coverage can help pay for medical bills and lost wages regardless of fault.
- Liability Claims: If law enforcement identifies the fleeing driver, you may be able to file a claim against their insurance or pursue a personal injury lawsuit. Turley Law Firm may be able to assist you in identifying the driver through a prompt and thorough investigation.
How a Dallas Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help
Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be complicated, especially when you’re dealing with injuries and financial stress. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence to support your claim.
- Work with law enforcement to identify the at-fault driver if possible.
- Negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Represent you in court if litigation becomes necessary.
At the Turley Law Firm, our skilled attorneys are committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims in Dallas and throughout Texas and multiple southern and southeastern states. We understand the unique challenges hit-and-run cases present, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact Turley Law Firm for a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has been injured in a hit-and-run accident, don’t try to deal with the aftermath alone. Contact the Turley Law Firm today at 214-691-4025 for a free consultation. We’ll help you explore your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve.
