If you are facing injuries as a result of a hit-and-run accident, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Continue reading and give our skilled Houston hit-and-run accident lawyer a call today to discuss the details of your case and your options.
What are the consequences of a hit-and-run?
At-fault drivers in a hit-and-run case often face serious consequences. At the very minimum, they will face a misdemeanor charge, but the possibilities vary depending on the case’s specific facts. For example, if you endured injuries or lost someone in a hit-and-run collision and either you or the police can identify the driver that hit you, they will almost always encounter felony charges.
Some other potential consequences of a hit-and-run accident include the following:
- The driver’s insurance premiums will increase dramatically.
- If the at-fault driver does not have insurance, they face further penalties for driving without insurance.
- If the police find the driver committed any other crimes, such as driving under the influence, at the time of the hit-and-run accident, they can also encounter charges for those crimes.
- The driver could encounter a civil lawsuit.
- The department of motor vehicles will likely implement even more penalties.
- Every accident has unique circumstances, and each state has its own laws governing hit-and-run accidents.
- These cases can quickly become very complicated and difficult. You may find it necessary to seek legal action, and a personal injury lawyer can provide an expert opinion on this kind of case.
What are the common causes of hit-and-run accidents?
Hit-and-run accidents can happen almost anywhere, and more times than not, the driver who hit you panicked and ran without considering the consequences. Some other reasons a driver may run include the following:
- They failed to purchase the proper car insurance and do not want to face the financial repercussions. The primary reason that people drive without insurance is that they cannot afford it, so it is safe to believe that they would struggle to pay out-of-pocket for damages.
- They were driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Even a first-offense DUI can come with big legal consequences, and the drunk driver faces substantial consequences if their actions result in injuries.
- They have outstanding warrants or other legal issues. Most states need you to contact the police for any accident resulting in injuries or significant property damage. Someone wanted by the police may run to avoid getting caught.
If you are the target of a hit-and-run collision, there are still a few important things you can do to protect your rights directly after. First, commit the license plate number to memory or take a photo if you can get to your phone in time. Then contact the police. Next, take photos of the damages and the surrounding scene before seeking medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you should see a doctor as soon as you can in case you have internal or latent injuries. Lastly, think about speaking with an attorney about what you can do next to receive compensation for your burdens.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED HOUSTON PERSONAL INJURY FIRM
If you require legal representation for personal injury matters, look no further than The Gonzalez Law Group. Schedule your initial consultation with our team to learn more about our services and how we can assist you. Contact us today.
