In hit-and-run cases in Grand Prairie, one driver crashes into another vehicle and flees the scene. Every hit-and-run case is a different, and there is no way to predict how someone might react to extreme human emotions like panic and terror and the circumstances surrounding a hit-and-run accident or how drivers react at the scene. However, no matter the circumstances of the case, there are some essential factors when determining guilt or innocence in Texas. All drivers are required by law to remain at the scene of an accident until law enforcement arrives and exchange their identifying information and insurance information with the other driver.
When someone is a victim of a hit-and-run collision, the claim might fall under their uninsured motorist protection if they have that on their policy. It might be possible to obtain camera footage to get the license plate of the vehicle and track down the driver who left the scene of the accident. Unfortunately, in many instances, the driver who crashed and ran off does not have insurance.
If you were involved in an accident and the other party left before the police arrived or before they gave you the necessary identification and insurance information, you may need the help of a Grand Prairie hit and run accident lawyer. When these crashes lead to injuries, you may be entitled to financial compensation for your damages. By working with a dedicated car wreck lawyer, you could ensure that your rights to make a claim are protected.
Common Factors in Hit and Run Crashes
Drivers who leave the scene of an accident have a reason for fleeing. An intoxicated driver has a reason to flee because if law enforcement determines they are intoxicated, they will be arrested.
Oftentimes, uninsured drivers also leave the scene of an accident because they do not want to get a ticket for driving without insurance and be held fully financially responsible for the ensuing expenses. Additionally, people driving with outstanding warrants or previous tickets may flee if law enforcement comes to the scene of the accident for fear of being arrested.
For a free legal consultation, call (817) 775-5364
Unique Aspects of Hit and Run Accidents in Grand Prairie
One consequence of committing a hit-and-run in Grand Prairie is that the defendant may be forced to pay punitive damages. Texas courts can award punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver for committing the crime of a hit-and-run. Punitive damages are one type of damages in addition to compensatory damages, which are general compensation categories. These damages would be awarded in addition to the other damages they must pay to cover medical expenses, lost wages, loss of enjoyment, pain, and suffering.
Depending on the kind of damage or injuries the accident caused the criminal penalties for fleeing the scene of an accident range from a misdemeanor to a felony for the criminal consequences. If a driver hits someone and had reason to believe the person was injured but did not stop to help them, they could face jail time if their actions resulted in somebody being hurt or killed.
Unfortunately, victims of hit-and-run crashes are often forced to collect from their own insurance policies unless the fleeing driver can be found through witness identification, their license plate, video evidence from the scene, or by turning themselves in to the authorities. Otherwise, there is no way to hold the person accountable. Even with this information, it is generally necessary to work with a Grand Prairie hit and run accident lawyer to get the money a plaintiff is owed.
Grand Prairie Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Near Me (817) 775-5364
Let an Attorney Help You if Have Been Involved In a Hit and Run
After being injured in a hit-and-run accident, it is essential that you remain at the scene of the accident until it is appropriate to leave. If there is any question about when you should leave the scene of the accident or actions you should take, it is wise to call an experienced car wreck lawyer right away to ensure you do not make mistakes that could reduce your financial recovery.
The second step is to check out everyone involved, both drivers and all passengers, before assessing property damage. It is of primary importance that you make sure everyone involved in the crash is okay, securing medical attention for anybody who needs it. If someone is unconscious or has neck or back pain, they should not be moved until qualified medical personnel arrives unless there is a hazard that requires moving them.
After these steps, a driver should photographically document any property damage or vehicle damage, and then collect the other driver’s insurance and identification information. However, if the other driver fails to stop to allow you to take these necessary steps, you may need to work with a Grand Prairie hit and run accident lawyer to fight to hold them accountable. If you are at the scene of an accident and the other driver has sped away, calling a lawyer right away could potentially help you get compensation for your losses. Call right away for the legal help you need.
Call (817) 775-5364 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
