It is a serious criminal offense for a driver to leave the scene of a car accident in the state of Texas. Victims of hit and run car accidents in Austin have legal options for seeking compensation, even if the at-fault driver is never identified. If you or a loved one has been involved in a crash like this, the experienced lawyers at Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys can protect your rights and fight for the justice you deserve.
Even if the at-fault driver is never identified, you have the right to compensation for any injuries caused by a hit and run crash in Austin. The process will likely involve filing a claim with your own car insurance company. In Texas, all auto insurance policies must provide uninsured and underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage unless the insured person signs a waiver rejecting this coverage.
UM/UIM coverage usually applies to both bodily injuries and property damage, with a claim helping pay for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. You will need to show that the unknown driver was liable for the collision to make a successful claim. The Texas Transportation Code § 550.021 clearly states that drivers have a duty to stop and remain at the scene of an accident involving injury, with leaving the scene being a violation of this duty that contributes to a finding of liability.
After a hit and run accident, you should contact 911 immediately to report the incident to the Austin Police Department, which will generally visit the scene, conduct an investigation, and create an official report. The resulting police report will document important details about the crash and the investigation, which can be valuable for your insurance claim.
When speaking with police, provide as much detail as possible about the other vehicle, such as the make, model, color, and any license plate numbers you remember. Austin PD will submit a written report to the Texas Department of Transportation if the crash involves injury or property damage exceeding $1,000. You or your lawyer can obtain a copy of this report online.
Even without finding the at-fault driver, a reputable Austin hit and run attorney from Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys can help maximize your financial recovery. An attorney will work with your insurance company to ensure you get the full benefits of your UM/UIM policy, including assisting with the complex process of proving liability and the extent of your damages. Lawyers from our firm understand the specific rules and requirements for UM/UIM claims, including the need to demonstrate physical contact with the other vehicle.
Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys has a long history of handling personal injury claims resulting from hit and run car accidents in Austin. Our practice features board-certified attorneys who have passed a rigorous exam, gained substantial trial experience, and received recommendations from judges and other attorneys. Board certification is a rare distinction for a Texas lawyer, so when we say that Fleming Law Accident & Injury Attorneys deliver top legal representation, we mean it. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car crash, contact us today to schedule a free legal consultation with one of our experienced lawyers.
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