Hit and Run Accidents in Texas
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Hit and Run Accidents in Texas
Hit‑and‑run accidents are some of the most devastating and frustrating crashes a person can experience. One moment you’re driving normally, and the next you’re injured, shaken, and left without answers because the driver who caused the crash simply sped away. Unfortunately, hit‑and‑run accidents are common in Texas, especially in busy cities like Dallas.
Even though the at‑fault driver fled, you still have legal options. At MLF Legal, our Dallas car wreck lawyers help injured Texans navigate the unique challenges of hit‑and‑run claims and recover the compensation they deserve.
Why Drivers Flee the Scene
Drivers leave accident scenes for many reasons, but none of them excuse the harm they cause. Common reasons include:
- Driving without insurance
- Driving under the influence
- Driving with a suspended license
- Fear of arrest or legal consequences
- Outstanding warrants
- Panic or shock
- Driving a stolen vehicle
Regardless of the reason, fleeing the scene is illegal in Texas and often leads to criminal charges once the driver is identified.
What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident
The steps you take immediately after a hit‑and‑run can significantly impact your claim.
- Call 911 Immediately
A police report is essential in hit‑and‑run cases. It documents the crash, starts the investigation, and supports your uninsured motorist claim.
- Gather as Much Information as Possible
Even small details can help identify the driver. Try to note:
- Vehicle make, model, or color
- Partial license plate
- Direction the driver fled
- Witness statements
- Photos or videos of the scene
Traffic cameras, doorbell cameras, and business surveillance footage can also be valuable.
- Seek Medical Treatment Right Away
Even if you feel “okay,” injuries often worsen over time. Early treatment protects both your health and your claim.
- Notify Your Insurance Company
Hit‑and‑run accidents typically trigger uninsured motorist (UM) coverage. Prompt notice is important, but avoid giving detailed statements until you speak with a lawyer.
- Contact a Lawyer Early
Hit‑and‑run cases require fast action to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
How Fault Is Determined in a Hit and Run Crash
Even though the other driver fled, fault still matters. Police reports, witness statements, vehicle damage, and scene evidence all help establish what happened. If the driver is later identified, they may be held responsible through both civil and criminal proceedings.
If the driver is never found, your uninsured motorist coverage steps in to compensate you—if the claim is handled correctly.
How Uninsured Motorist Coverage Applies
Texas law allows you to recover compensation through your own UM policy when:
- The at‑fault driver fled the scene
- The driver cannot be identified
- The driver had no insurance
- The insurer denies coverage for the at‑fault driver
However, Texas requires independent evidence of the hit‑and‑run. This makes early documentation critical.
Common Injuries in Hit and Run Accidents
Because hit‑and‑run drivers often speed away without braking, these crashes frequently involve high‑impact collisions.
Common injuries include:
- Whiplash
- Herniated or bulging discs
- Concussions and traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Shoulder and knee injuries
- Internal injuries
- Nerve damage
- Long‑term pain and impairment
Even if symptoms seem minor at first, they often worsen over time.
Why Insurance Companies Fight Hit and Run Claims
Many people assume their own insurer will treat them fairly. Unfortunately, UM claims are often handled just like any other liability claim. Insurers may:
- Question whether the hit‑and‑run occurred
- Claim you were partially at fault
- Minimize your injuries
- Challenge your medical treatment
- Offer low settlements
- Delay payment
A strong legal strategy helps prevent these tactics from reducing your compensation.
Compensation Available After a Hit and Run Accident
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Future medical care
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Physical impairment
- Property damage
Because hit‑and‑run injuries are often severe, the value of these claims can be significant.
How MLF Legal Helps Hit and Run Victims
Taking the right steps early helps protect your claim:
- Call the police and request a crash report
- Take photos and videos of the scene
- Get medical treatment immediately
- Avoid giving recorded statements
- Keep all medical records
- Contact a lawyer as soon as possible
These steps help preserve evidence and prevent the insurer from undervaluing your claim.
When to Call a Dallas Car Accident Lawyer
You should contact a lawyer immediately if:
- The at‑fault driver fled the scene
- You suffered serious injuries
- You’re unsure how UM coverage works
- The insurance company is delaying or denying your claim
- You received a low settlement offer
- You’re overwhelmed by medical bills
Hit‑and‑run cases are too complex to handle alone.
Call the Dallas personal injury lawyers at MLF Legal at 214‑357‑1782 for a free consultation.
FAQs: Hit and Run Accidents in Texas
Call 911, document the scene, seek medical care, and contact a lawyer immediately.
Yes. Your uninsured motorist coverage can compensate you if the claim is handled correctly.
Yes. Texas requires independent evidence, such as photos, witness statements, or a police report.
Not typically. UM claims generally do not increase premiums because you were not at fault.
Injured at work in Texas and your employer doesn’t have workers’ comp?
You may have the right to sue and recover full compensation.
Contact MLF Legal today for a free consultation. You pay nothing unless we win your case.
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