If you’ve found yourself involved in a hit-and-run accident in Texas, you are not alone. Many people experience the confusion and frustration that comes with being in an accident where the other driver leaves the scene. It’s an overwhelming situation, but know that there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights. Our team at Chavez Law Firm understands the distress that can come with these cases, and we are here to guide you through the process. We are committed to helping you achieve a positive outcome with your case.
What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run Accident
The first few moments after a hit-and-run accident can be chaotic, but staying calm is essential. If possible, try to remember as many details as you can about the vehicle that left the scene. This could include the car’s make, model, color, and any other identifying features, such as a bumper sticker or damage to the vehicle. Write down the license plate number if you are able to get a glimpse of it.
If you are able to safely do so, take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle, and any visible injuries. These photos can be crucial in building your case. After this, it’s important to call the police right away. Law enforcement will investigate the incident, which is important for filing a report and getting documentation for your insurance claim or a potential lawsuit.
Even if the other driver has fled the scene, it’s essential to report the accident as soon as possible. Failing to do so can harm your case, especially when trying to recover compensation later. By reporting the accident, you’re showing that you took the proper legal steps after a hit-and-run, which strengthens your position.
What to Do if You Cannot Identify the Driver
In some cases, the driver who caused the hit-and-run may be unknown. While this can feel disheartening, there are still options for you. First, make sure you’ve reported the accident to the police and provided as much information as you can about the vehicle.
Enrique Chavez
Texas Trial Attorney
Protecting Your Rights
If you don’t have a way to identify the person who left the scene, your own insurance policy may cover your injuries through uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage is often included in Texas auto insurance policies, but you will need to check the details of your own policy to confirm.
Even without the other driver’s identification, it is important to continue gathering evidence. This may include speaking to witnesses who may have seen the accident or the car involved in the hit-and-run. If there are any nearby surveillance cameras or traffic cameras that may have captured footage of the incident, this can help provide further clues about the vehicle or the driver.
– Steve Hendrix – Adriana Solis – Luis Amador – Maria Terrazas
Dealing with Your Insurance Company After a Hit-and-Run Accident
Once you have reported the accident and filed a police report, your next step is to contact your insurance company. Be honest with them about the details of the accident, including the fact that it was a hit-and-run. Insurance companies will often have their own process for handling these types of accidents. However, even if the driver is unknown, your own insurance policy may help with medical expenses and repairs.
If you have uninsured motorist coverage, your insurance company may provide compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle damage. Your insurance company may investigate the accident to determine who was at fault and if they can identify the driver. Keep in mind that insurance claims can be a complicated process, especially if there is a lack of clear evidence about the other driver.
Insurance companies may not always offer you the settlement you deserve, and they may try to minimize their payout. If this happens, it is important to have an experienced lawyer by your side. A lawyer can help ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries, medical bills, and other damages.
Seeking Legal Help for Your Hit-and-Run Case
Navigating the legal process after a hit-and-run accident can be complex, especially if the other driver is unidentified. That’s where an experienced attorney can help. Legal professionals can assist you in several ways, such as helping you understand your rights, reviewing your insurance policy, and guiding you through the process of filing claims with your insurance company.
An attorney will also work to investigate the circumstances surrounding the hit-and-run accident. If the police have not been able to locate the responsible driver, an attorney can help you explore other options for pursuing compensation. This may include using surveillance footage, witness testimony, or other forms of evidence to track down the person responsible.
Sometimes, the hit-and-run driver can be located, and in these cases, your attorney will help you build a case to hold the driver accountable for the damages caused. Even if the driver remains unidentified, a lawyer can assist you in making the best possible recovery under your own insurance policy.
The Importance of Timely Action
When you’re involved in a hit-and-run accident, acting quickly can significantly impact the success of your case. Texas law gives you a limited amount of time to take legal action, known as the statute of limitations. If you wait too long to file a claim or lawsuit, you may lose the ability to recover compensation.
In addition to this, gathering evidence soon after the accident can make a huge difference in the outcome. Memories of witnesses fade, and surveillance footage may be erased or overwritten. The sooner you take action, the stronger your case will be.
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Chavez Law Firm, we understand the emotional and financial challenges you may face after such an incident. Our team is here to support you through every step of the legal process. Whether it’s helping you understand your rights, working with your insurance company, or pursuing legal action to identify and hold the responsible party accountable, we are here to fight for you.
We are committed to achieving a successful outcome in your case. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident, contact us today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.