Consequences of a Hit & Run in Texas | What to Know

Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense in Texas. Read on to learn more about the penalties, your legal responsibilities, and potential defenses.

Penalties of leaving the scene of an accident:

Leaving the scene of an accident involving death or serious injury is a third-degree felony in Texas. This crime is punishable by 2 to 10 years in state prison. If the injury is not serious, it is a felony punishable by up to one year in a county jail or up to five years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.

What are my legal responsibilities after an accident?

If you are involved in a car accident, you have the following legal responsibilities:

  1. Immediately pull the vehicle over as close to the accident scene as possible.
  2. Immediately return to the scene if you did not stop.
  3. Determine if anyone involved in the accident requires aid.
  4. Render reasonable assistance to anyone injured.
  5. Exchange information with the other driver.
  6. Call the police if the crash involves injuries, deaths or more than $1,000 in damage.
  7. Remain at the scene of the car accident until you have given your information and rendered aid.

Potential defenses:

An attorney can help reduce your charges. The following are potential defenses for leaving the scene of an accident:

  • A driver is responding to an emergency – A driver was involved in an accident while en route to the hospital or another place because of an emergency.
  • Involuntary intoxication – A driver was drugged without his/her knowledge and then became involuntarily intoxicated before being involved in a crash.
  • Unaware of an accident and/or injury – A driver had no knowledge that he/she caused someone else’s injury or damage to another person’s vehicle.

If you are facing charges for a hit and run, you will need a skilled attorney on your side. Reach out to our firm today to discuss your options. The sooner you reach out, the sooner we can begin building your case.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED HOUSTON FIRM

We understand how challenging various legal matters can be, which is why we have dedicated ourselves to helping clients in Texas through a wide array of legal matters, including personal injury law and criminal defense. If you have sustained a serious injury or are facing criminal charges, contact the Gonzalez Law Group today to learn more about how we can help you through every step of the legal process ahead.