Leaving the scene of a car accident is illegal, no matter how minor the crash may be.
Unfortunately, hit-and-run car wrecks happen on a daily basis in Texas, some of them leaving hit drivers with substantial damage to their vehicles or worse yet, with injuries.
When hit-and-run car crashes happen, it is important for drivers who have been hit to act immediately to get legal help that can protect their right to compensation.
What Is Considered A Hit-and-Run Accident?
A hit-and-run car crash is defined as one in which a car has made contact with another car and then fled the scene of the accident.
Many times, drivers do this if they have no insurance, are driving with a suspended license or with no license, are driving a stolen vehicle, or are impaired by drugs or alcohol.
Though fleeing is illegal, the penalty they may face gives them the motivation to flee rather than face the consequences after crashing into someone else and causing damage or even hurting them.
Always Call The Police With A Hit-and-Run Accident
Texas drivers involved in a hit-and-run car accident should immediately call the police, then contact their insurance company and report the accident, advising that the other driver fled the scene.
It is important to gather whatever evidence can be found at the scene, including names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the hit-and-run and then seek medical attention.
A copy of the police report should be requested and then it is recommended that hit-and-run victims contact a car accident lawyer.
Car Accident Lawyers Can Help
The reason why those involved in a hit-and-run car wreck should consider contacting a lawyer is that many car insurance companies hesitate when receiving damage and injury claims for hit-and-run accidents, even when their customers have added coverage like uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, medical coverage, and personal injury protection.
Some try to reimburse their customers with amounts that are smaller than what they could be since there is no other company to get payment from or drag out the claims reimbursement process as long as they can.
People affected by hit-and-run car crashes are entitled to compensation from their insurance companies, who are the ones responsible for following up on any evidence to try to find the other person involved.
When insurance agencies fail to do their part or otherwise attempt to minimize the reimbursement they are willing to pay their customers, a lawyer can help.
In Summary
An experienced car wreck lawyer can help clients determine the true extent of their injuries and property damage, then negotiate on their behalf with low-balling insurance companies.
Contact a skilled car accident lawyer after a hit-and-run car crash to ensure a fair settlement.