Austin Hit and Run Attorneys
Charged with Leaving the Scene of an Accident?
Perhaps you were scared or couldn’t find a safe place to stop your car after your accident, so you kept driving. Now you have been arrested for hit and run and you don’t know what to do.
What Drivers Must Legally Do after an Accident
Texas Transportation Code Ann. § 550.021 and § 550.022 requires drivers to stop after an accident, even if no one has been injured. Failure to do so can result in charges for failure to stop and render aid for accidents with injuries, or failure to stop and give information for accidents that do not result in injuries.
Things drivers must do after an accident:
- Share name and address
- Give insurance information
- Provide registration number of the car involved
- Show proof of driver’s license
- Provide assistance to anyone injured in the accident, usually by calling an emergency medical provider
Penalties for a Hit & Run Conviction
Leaving the scene of an accident involving death or injury can result in third-degree felony charges, which carry a punishment of 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. Accidents involving property damage and no injuries or death can result in a Class B misdemeanor charge, punishable by up to 180 days in jail and a $2,000 fine.
What If I Left the Scene? Should I Go Back?
If you left the scene of the accident for any reason, you should return as soon as possible. Call an attorney from our firm as well for legal guidance.
What If I Hit a Car & Can’t Find the Owner?
If you hit a car, or any other piece of property, but can’t find the owner immediately nearby, make every effort to get in touch with them. Leave a visible note with your name, address, and registration number so that the owner can get in touch with you when he or she returns to the scene.
What Our Clients Say
Our Level of Service Speaks for Itself
-
He ALWAYS answered my calls and emails almost immediately and was extremely helpful with any questions I may have had.- Amy N.
-
She took her time with my case and made me feel comfortable and at ease with the entire process.- Ashley S.
-
She worked diligently to take care of my case.- Dustin S.
-
You're truly An Amazing Attorney!!!- Tanya T.
-
Blair, you’re an angel sent from God!- Bobby C. & Andrea C.
-
The firm, and Shelly, are great!!- Lisa C.
-
I would highly recommend Blair Carroll to retain as my lawyer.- Vickilynn P.
-
He made the whole legal process bearable.- Danielle K.