Hit and Run Car Accidents in Grapevine

Hit-and-run car accidents can be frustrating and overwhelming experiences. Therefore, the state has strict laws outlining the responsibilities of those involved in these collisions. These crashes can be caused by drivers unaware that they have hit another vehicle or by those who knowingly flee the scene of a wreck out of panic or fear.

No matter the circumstances, hit-and-run accidents can result in serious criminal charges. If you have been involved in a hit-and-run accident in Grapevine, seek the assistance of a lawyer. A knowledgeable motor vehicle crash attorney could advise you of your rights and assist you with seeking compensation for your injuries.

Why do Drivers Typically Flee a Crash Scene?

Drivers typically have a reason why they leave the scene of a crash without waiting for police to arrive, including fearing arrest or lacking insurance coverage. That said, a driver’s obligation to leave a crash scene can vary depending on the nature of the crash. For example, a motorist involved in an accident with bodily injuries does not have the same duty as a driver that strikes a parked car.

Unaware Driver

Leaving the scene of a collision is not always intentional. For instance, there are times when a driver might leave an accident scene because they were unaware that an incident occurred. Some drivers also leave the scene when they believe an accident was minor or that no one sustained severe injuries.

Legal Trouble

Sometimes, drivers leave wrecks without reporting them because they fear legal repercussions. For example, a driver with an active arrest warrant might leave to avoid incarceration. Impaired drivers might also leave the scene of a crash to avoid a DWI arrest.

Lack of Insurance

Another common reason drivers flee the scene of a crash is the lack of liability insurance coverage. Drivers without insurance might leave to avoid facing responsibility for the collision they caused.

Available Compensation After a Hit and Run Collision

There are different types of financial damages available in a personal injury case. When a plaintiff succeeds in their hit-and-run accident lawsuit, they could be entitled to recover those damages from the driver that left the scene. Those damages generally fall into one of three categories.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover all of the measurable monetary losses sustained by an injury victim. These damages include medical bills, lost wages, and vehicle repair expenses.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are subjective and not easy to measure. They include things like pain and suffering or disfigurement. While subjective, an attorney could make a case to a jury that these hardships require compensation.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are not usually available in personal injury cases. Instead of helping the injury victim recoup their losses, these damages are designed to punish bad behavior. Although uncommon, these damages could be an option when an impaired driver causes a severe collision and leaves the scene.

Talk to an Attorney About Hit and Run Collisions in Grapevine

If you have been involved in a hit-and-run crash, you may be unsure how to proceed. However, a seasoned lawyer can provide the legal support needed to navigate this difficult situation.

An attorney can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work to help identify the driver who fled the scene. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a seasoned lawyer to discuss hit-and-run accidents in Grapevine.