When a car accident occurs, you expect the driver to stop, render the necessary help to injured victims and provide their insurance and contact information. But unfortunately, that’s not always the case. Some of them flee the scene immediately, leaving the injured persons at the mercy of bystanders. Texas laws require parties involved in a crash to remain at the scene and failure to do so may result in criminal charges, especially if someone is severely injured or killed.
If you have fallen victim to a similar accident, don’t give up on your legal rights. However, it may be challenging to pursue justice or compensation where the at-fault driver is never found, but it doesn’t hurt to try. Retaining a skilled Fort Bend County hit-and-run accident lawyer at Lone Star Injury Attorneys is the best decision you can make to protect your rights.
Recovering Compensation Following a Hit-and-Run Accident
Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be able to file an injury claim against the driver, vehicle owner, or any other party at fault. In the instance where the driver isn’t found, it’s possible to collect damages from your own insurance company. Or, if you noted down the vehicle’s registration, it may be easy to track down the owner or company and sue them for negligent driver hiring.
Depending on your losses, you may collect damages for:
- Lost wages
- Loss of consortium in case of wrongful death
- Property repair costs
- Medical expenses
- Emotional trauma
- Physical pain and suffering
- Permanent disability
- Diminished quality of life
- Loss of income-earning ability
The types of losses you can claim compensation for must be followed up with proof. For example, you will need medical reports and bills to show your injuries are related to the accident. Putting pieces of evidence together in a personal injury claim can be difficult, especially when you have sustained severe injuries. An experienced car accident lawyer can carry the burden on your behalf, and this enables you to focus on treatment.
For a free legal consultation with a hit and run accident lawyer serving Fort Bend County, call (832) 449-8230
How Will a Criminal Case Influence My Injury Claim?
Not in any way. A criminal case is distinct from a civil lawsuit. A state prosecutor brings it forward on behalf of the government to punish the party at fault for committing a felony or misdemeanor. The outcome is often a jail term or court fines. If they are convicted, you won’t be compensated on that basis, but your hit-and-run collision attorney may liaise with the prosecutor to use some of their evidence in your case. Similarly, if they are acquitted, you may pursue compensation and recover a monetary reward.
It’s imperative to work with a skilled attorney, more so if the party to blame for your injuries is facing criminal charges. With their knowledge, your legal team will argue your case in a timely and convincing manner to ensure you are settled even when the defendant is jailed or acquitted. This helps maximize your recovery in the long run.
Fort Bend County Hit And Run Accident Lawyer Near Me (832) 449-8230
Why Drivers Flee After Causing a Car Accident
It’s expected that the driver who hit you or destroyed your property will stop and assess the damage and offer assistance if necessary. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. There are a variety of reasons why a driver will flee an accident scene. It all comes down to selfishness and self-centeredness. A motorist will run because:
- They possess illegal goods in their vehicles
- They have an expired license
- They have too many tickets
- They are uninsured
- They have been convicted of a crime or are wanted
- They were under the influence of alcohol or hard drugs
- They were poorly trained
Another common reason why most drivers don’t stop is generally due to shock or fear. The thought of having caused severe harm or death could cloud their judgment and cause them to flee. Regardless, the appropriate thing to do is to stop. This doesn’t mean they are at fault but rather, it allows for an in-depth review of the accident until a mutual understanding is reached.
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Contact a Fort Bend County Hit-and-Run Collision Attorney Now
If you have been a victim of a hit-and-run, you may have an opportunity to get justice. Our influential Fort Bend County hit-and-run accident lawyers are ready to help you get the closure and compensation you need. We tirelessly work with investigative authorities to track down reckless drivers, and even if they are not found, there are other options to get you compensated. To learn more about these cases and how we handle our claims, please contact us today.
Call or text (832) 449-8230 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
