Houston Hit and Run Accident Lawyer

Houston Hit and Run Accident Attorney

Being a victim of a hit and run can be infuriating, confusing, overwhelming, and just plain annoying at times. The last thing you want to deal with is a car accident, but it gets even worse when the at-fault driver tries to flee the scene and leave you to clean up the mess on your own. If you are a victim of a hit and run, you should consider seeking compensation from the driver who tried to run. A Houston hit and run accident lawyer can help you with that.

What Is a Hit and Run?

A hit and run car accident occurs when somebody hits your car, does not stop to exchange insurance information, and simply attempts to flee the scene after causing an injury, property damage, or even a death in the most extreme cases. A hit and run is considered a serious violation in every state in the country, including Texas.

Fleeing the scene of a car accident is illegal in Texas. Under state law, if a driver of any vehicle is involved in a car accident that involves an injury, significant property damage, or someone’s death, they are legally required to remain at the scene and report the accident to the proper authorities. Failure to do so could result in serious legal penalties for the driver who flees, including hefty fines and even jail time, depending on the circumstances.

Statute of Limitations

If the person who hit you and fled is caught by the police, you have the right to pursue a personal injury claim against them for the damage they caused you. It is important that you take into account the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in Texas, including hit and run accident claims. Generally, the state gives you two years to establish grounds for your claim, develop a strong case, gather evidence, speak with a lawyer, and file.

If you cannot file your claim before two years have passed, there is a likely chance that your claim will be denied, your case will be dismissed, and your one chance to seek compensatory damages for your hit and run may pass with no legal action taken. It can take more time than you may think to build a strong hit and run accident case, so you should start as soon as you can. A good lawyer can let you know if you have a strong case.

What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident?

Being in a hit and run can be a truly frustrating situation to find yourself in. There might not be anybody to blame right away, as they may have fled successfully. Depending on the severity of the accident, you should consider taking the necessary steps to protect yourself and your future injury claim.

Here are some of the steps you can take to make sure everything is done correctly:

• Stay Calm: It can be difficult to remain calm after being through such a sudden and potentially traumatic event. Still, you should try your hardest to keep yourself together, as it may be easier to make important decisions with a clear head. Try to ignore your instinct to panic, as panicking can’t help your situation. Get yourself together and take some deep breaths.
• Check for Injuries: You should check yourself for injuries as soon as you can. Depending on the details of the accident, you may be seriously injured but unaware of it due to the shock of the accident. Look for bloody spots, protrusions, bruising, and any broken bones. Do the same for any passengers you have.
• Call 911: Once you have calmed yourself down, call the police. Let them know you have just been the victim of a hit and run. Police will likely come to the scene and fill out a report. If you are injured, request EMTs as well.
• Don’t Accept Fault: When you speak to the police, do not admit any fault for the accident. Even if you are aware that you caused the accident, don’t say anything. The fact that the other driver fled the scene will likely be the main focus of any investigation. Admitting fault could seriously hurt your injury claim when the time comes to file.
• Contact a Lawyer: When you are ready to move forward with your injury claim, you should reach out to an experienced hit and run accident lawyer who can help you put together a strong case.

Houston Hit and Run Accident FAQs

Q: Can You Take Legal Action Against a Hit and Run Driver in Houston?

A: Yes, you can take legal action against a hit and run driver in Houston. Just make sure that you file your claim within two years of the accident. You can pursue damages such as medical bills, lost wages, property damages, emotional distress, and pain and suffering. You can still take legal action even if the driver has not yet been identified.

Q: How Long After a Hit and Run Accident Can You Be Charged in Houston?

A: In Houston, you can be charged with a misdemeanor hit and run for up to two years after the date of the initial accident. You can be charged with a felony hit and run for up to three years after the accident. It largely depends on the details and severity of the case.

Q: How Bad Is a Hit and Run Charge in Houston?

A: A hit and run charge in Houston can be pretty bad, depending on the details of the accident. If somebody was severely injured, property damage was substantial, or someone died, the charge will likely be a felony hit and run on top of multiple other potential charges. You could face serious prison time and a hefty fine for such a felony if convicted.

Q: What Will Police Do During a Hit and Run?

A: When you call the police after a hit and run, their primary focus will likely be finding the at-fault driver. Witness statements, surveillance footage, and anything you can remember about the driver will really come in handy. Once the police can locate the driver, they will likely be arrested and charged with a hit and run.

Contact Us Today

At Merritt & Merritt Law Firm, we can help you figure out your next steps after being the victim of a hit and run. Reach out to our team today to talk about your case.