Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident can leave you feeling helpless. In Texas alone, over 17,000 hit-and-run crashes were reported in 2023, many involving serious injuries or fatalities. If you’ve been hurt and the other driver fled the scene, it’s important to act quickly. At Reynaldo Diaz Accident Injury Attorney PC, we’re here to help guide you through the complexities of your case, ensuring you receive the support and compensation you deserve.
Seek justice after a driver leaves the scene
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a crash leaves the scene without providing identification or assisting those injured. Whether due to panic, fear, or a desire to avoid financial responsibility, fleeing the scene complicates the situation for the victims. In Texas, leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense, even if it only involves property damage. The law requires that drivers stop, provide their information, and assist anyone who may be injured. Failing to do so adds criminal penalties to the at-fault driver’s actions.
Texas law treats hit-and-run accidents severely, with penalties escalating in proportion to the severity of the accident. If the crash only involves property damage, the driver may face misdemeanor charges; however, if injuries or fatalities occur, the charges can be upgraded to felony offenses. If you’re a victim of a hit-and-run accident, contact Reynaldo Diaz Accident Injury Attorney PC for legal guidance.
Common reasons for hit-and-run
accidents:
- Panic or fear following a collision
- Desire to avoid legal consequences, such as DUI charges
- Lack of valid insurance or a driver’s license
- Fear of increased insurance premiums
- Unawareness of the severity of the accident
- Impairment due to drugs or alcohol
- Previous criminal history or warrants
- Emotional distress or confusion after the crash
Why call a hit-and-run accident attorney
Dealing with the aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be overwhelming. When the responsible driver flees the scene, recovering compensation and holding them accountable can become a complex process. A skilled attorney can help navigate the complexities of your case, from dealing with insurance companies to investigating the incident thoroughly. By hiring an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, you ensure your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve.
Here’s how an attorney can help you move forward:
- Investigating the accident while the evidence is still fresh
- Working with law enforcement to help identify the fleeing driver
- Gathering and preserving witness statements and surveillance footage
- Handling communications with your insurance company
- Evaluating your insurance coverage and benefits
- Filing claims for uninsured motorist or personal injury protection
- Pursuing additional compensation through a civil lawsuit, if possible
Types of compensation available
Medical expenses
Compensation for medical expenses covers the costs of hospital bills, surgeries, medication, physical therapy, and any other necessary medical treatments related to the accident. This can also include future medical care if ongoing treatment is required.
Lost wages
If the accident resulted in injuries that caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages. This covers both current and future lost earnings, ensuring you’re not financially burdened during your recovery.
Pain and suffering
This type of compensation addresses the emotional and physical pain you endured as a result of the accident. It can include both mental anguish and the lasting effects of your injuries, such as chronic pain or emotional trauma.
Property damage
Compensation for property damage includes the cost of repairing or replacing your vehicle and other personal property that was damaged in the accident. This can also cover any other belongings inside your car that were destroyed or lost due to the crash.
Emotional distress
If the accident caused you significant emotional or psychological stress, you may be entitled to compensation for emotional distress. This can include anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) that directly resulted from the incident.
Punitive damages
In some cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the at-fault driver for particularly reckless or negligent behavior. This type of compensation is intended to deter similar actions in the future and is typically awarded in addition to other forms of damages.
Steps to take immediately after a hit-and-run accident:
- Call the police to report the incident and file a report
- Seek medical attention for any injuries, even if they seem minor
- Document the scene by taking photos of the damage and surroundings
- Look for witnesses and collect their contact information
- Try to remember or note any details about the fleeing vehicle
- Contact your insurance company to report the accident
- Reach out to a hit-and-run accident attorney for legal guidance
Why choose Reynaldo Diaz after hit-and-run accidents?
Reynaldo Diaz is dedicated to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents recover the compensation they deserve. With over 35 years of experience, Mr. Diaz understands the complexities of Texas law and works tirelessly to ensure that your rights are protected. He is committed to thorough investigations and will navigate the legal process on your behalf, making sure you don’t face these challenges alone. If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, schedule a consultation with Mr. Diaz today to discuss your case.
