The shock and confusion of a car crash are instantly magnified when the other driver speeds away, leaving you to deal with the aftermath alone. A hit and run accident in Houston is not just a traffic violation; it is a criminal act that can leave victims feeling helpless and facing significant financial burdens. You may be injured, your vehicle may be damaged, and you have no information about the person responsible.
However, it is crucial to know that you are not without options. Texas law provides avenues for recovery even when the at-fault driver cannot be found. Understanding what steps to take immediately after the incident can protect your rights and improve your chances of securing the compensation you need. If you have been the victim of a driver who fled the scene, a knowledgeable Houston hit and run lawyer can guide you through the complex process ahead.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit and Run
The moments following a hit and run are chaotic, but your actions can make a significant difference. If you find yourself in this frightening situation, try to remain calm and prioritize your safety.
- Do Not Pursue the Fleeing Driver: Your safety is the top priority. Chasing the other vehicle can lead to another, more serious accident and is not worth the risk.
- Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident to the police as soon as possible. A police report is essential for any insurance claim. Inform the dispatcher that the other driver fled the scene. This officially documents the crime and starts the investigation.
- Record Everything You Can Remember: The smallest detail could be the key to identifying the driver. Write down or record a voice memo with everything you can recall about the other vehicle, including:
- Make, model, and color
- License plate number (even a partial number is helpful)
- Any noticeable damage, stickers, or unique features
- A description of the driver if you saw them
- The direction they were headed when they fled
- Document the Scene and Your Injuries: Take photos and videos of the accident scene, the damage to your vehicle, and any visible injuries you have sustained. Also, note the exact location, time of day, and weather conditions.
- Look for Witnesses: Ask anyone nearby if they saw the accident. Get their names and contact information. Eyewitnesses can often provide a missing piece of information, like a license plate number or a better description of the car.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, it is vital to get a medical evaluation. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding. A medical record also creates an official link between the hit and run and the injuries you suffered.
How Do You Recover Compensation After a Houston Hit and Run?
When the at-fault driver is unidentified, you cannot file a claim against their insurance. This is where your own auto insurance policy becomes critical. The primary source for covering your damages in a hit and run case is your Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.
Despite its name, Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage in Texas is specifically designed to cover bodily injury damages in a hit and run accident where the at-fault driver cannot be identified. This coverage can pay for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Disfigurement and physical impairment
It is important to note that your own insurance company now acts as the opposing party. Their goal is still to pay out as little as possible. They may dispute the severity of your injuries or argue that your policy doesn’t cover the incident. This is why having a lawyer who is experienced in dealing with insurance companies is so important.
For vehicle repairs, you will need to rely on your Collision coverage, if you have it.
Why You Need a Houston Hit and Run Accident Attorney
Dealing with a hit and run claim is complicated. You are trying to recover from a traumatic event while simultaneously fighting with an insurance company for fair compensation. An experienced attorney can lift this burden by:
- Handling All Insurance Communications: Your lawyer will manage all correspondence and negotiations with your insurance company, protecting you from adjusters trying to devalue your claim.
- Conducting a Thorough Investigation: An attorney can work to uncover evidence to identify the fleeing driver, such as canvassing the area for surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras.
- Maximizing Your UM Claim: They will ensure all your damages are properly documented and fight to secure the maximum compensation available under your policy.
- Pursuing the At-Fault Driver if Found: If the investigation successfully identifies the driver, your lawyer will immediately pivot to pursuing a claim against them and their insurance.
Being the victim of any car accident is difficult, but a hit and run adds a layer of injustice. You deserve an advocate who will fight for you.
Contact the Stano Law Firm for Help
If you have been injured in a hit and run accident in Houston, do not give up hope. The Stano Law Firm has the experience and resources to help you navigate this challenging situation and pursue the financial recovery you need to move forward.
Contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. We will review your case, explain your options, and answer all of your questions. You owe us nothing unless we successfully recover compensation for you.