Pearland TX Hit and Run Lawyer

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident in Pearland, Texas, can be a confusing and stressful experience. Not only are you shaken by the accident itself, but you’re also left without information about the driver who caused it. This can make it challenging to know what to do next or how to recover compensation for your damages.

At DeHoyos Accident Attorneys, our Pearland, TX, hit-and-run lawyers understand the challenges you face. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.

What To Do After a Hit And Run Accident

The immediate aftermath of a hit-and-run accident can be chaotic. Staying calm and taking the following steps can help protect your health, safety, and legal rights:

Ensure Safety:

Check yourself and others involved for injuries. If there are serious injuries, call 911 immediately.

If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location off the road to avoid further accidents. Turn on your hazard lights.

Call the Police:

Report the accident to the Pearland Police Department as soon as possible. Provide all the details you can remember, including the time, location, and any descriptions of the hit-and-run vehicle (make, model, color, license plate number – if possible).

Gather Evidence:

If safe, take pictures of the accident scene, your vehicle damage, any debris left behind, and any potential witnesses.

Note the weather conditions, time of day, and other relevant details.

Seek Medical Attention:

Even if you don’t initially feel pain, getting a medical evaluation is crucial. Early diagnosis and treatment can improve your recovery and document your injuries for your claim.

Contact a Pearland, TX Hit and Run Lawyer:

An experienced attorney can advise you of your legal rights and options, guide you through the legal process, and fight for the compensation you deserve.

How The Hit and Run Lawyers at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys in Pearland TX Can Help You

Being the victim of a hit-and-run in Pearland, TX, leaves you with more than just car damage. Medical bills, lost wages, and emotional stress can pile up fast. DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help.

Our experienced Pearland TX, hit-and-run lawyers will:

• Fight to Identify the Driver: We’ll work tirelessly to gather evidence and track down the driver responsible for your accident.
• Maximize Your Compensation: We’ll handle complex insurance claims and explore all options to get you the money you deserve for your injuries and damages.
• Handle the Legal Hassle: From paperwork to court appearances, we’ll care for everything so you can focus on healing.
• Be Your Strong Advocate: We’ll fight for your rights and ensure you’re not left holding the bag for someone else’s negligence.

Don’t let the hit-and-run driver win. Schedule a free consultation with DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today. We’ll answer your questions and guide you through the legal process.

Texas Hit and Run Laws

What is Considered a Hit-and-Run in Texas?

In Texas, a hit-and-run occurs when a driver involved in a motor vehicle accident fails to:

• Stop at the scene of the accident
• Exchange contact and insurance information with other drivers involved
• Leave a note with their contact and insurance information at the scene (if no other drivers are present)

Penalties for Hit-and-Run Accidents

The penalties for a hit-and-run in Texas depend on whether the accident resulted in property damage, injury, or death:

Property Damage Only (Misdemeanor)

Leaving the scene can result in a Class C misdemeanor with fines up to $500.

Injury Accident (Felony)

If the accident caused injuries but not severe bodily injury, it’s a third-degree felony with potential penalties of Up to 10 years in prison and Fines up to $10,000

Bodily Severe Injury Accident (Felony)

If the accident caused severe bodily injury, it’s a second-degree felony with potential penalties of Up to 20 years in prison and Fines of up to $10,000

Fatal Accident (Felony)

If the accident resulted in a death, it’s a first-degree felony with potential penalties of Up to life imprisonment and Fines up to $10,000

Hit and Run Accidents Statistics

Unfortunately, hit-and-run accidents are a serious and concerning issue across the United States. Here are some alarming statistics to consider:

• The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that an estimated 737,100 hit-and-run crashes occurred in 2015 alone. This translates to a hit-and-run accident happening roughly every 43 seconds nationwide.
• The number of fatalities resulting from hit-and-run crashes is also on the rise. In 2016, the NHTSA reported 2,049 deaths from hit-and-run accidents, the highest number ever recorded.

While hit-and-run accidents are a national problem, Texas has a particularly concerning record:

• A 2018 report by AAA revealed that Texas ranks 8th in the country among states with the highest number of fatal hit-and-run crashes.

These statistics paint a grim picture of the prevalence of hit-and-run accidents in Texas. If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you’re not alone.

Common Types of Hit and Run Accidents

Hit-and-run accidents can occur in various ways, some more frequent than others:

Rear-End Collisions

These are the most common types of hit-and-run accidents. A driver following too closely or distracted may rear-end your vehicle and flee the scene.

Parked Car Accidents

A driver may strike your parked car in a parking lot or on the street and leave without leaving any information.

Sideswipe Collisions

These can occur when vehicles travel in opposite directions. One driver swerves into the other lane, causing damage, and then flees.

Intersection Accidents

Busy intersections can be prime locations for hit-and-run accidents due to inattention, reckless driving, or attempting to avoid a traffic citation.

How To Identify Hit and Run Drivers

Identifying the driver in a hit-and-run accident can be challenging, but here are some things that can help:

• Witness Statements: If there were any witnesses to the accident, their statements could provide valuable information about the hit-and-run vehicle, including its make, model, color, and license plate number.
• Traffic Camera Footage: Security cameras in the area, such as those at gas stations, convenience stores, or traffic lights, may have captured footage of the accident that can help identify the vehicle.
• Debris at the Scene: Carefully examine the scene for any debris left behind by the hit-and-run vehicle, such as paint chips, broken glass, or vehicle parts. This debris can provide clues about the make and model of the car.
• Report Any Details: Even the most minor details you remember about the vehicle or the driver can be helpful. Report everything you can to the police, including the direction the car fled, the approximate time of day, and any distinguishing features of the car (dents, bumper stickers, etc.).

Types of Compensation in a Hit-and-Run Case 

Being the victim of a hit-and-run is stressful. You’re hurt, your car is damaged, and the driver is gone. But you can still recover compensation:

• Medical Bills: All your medical expenses, present and future.
• Lost Wages: Missed work now and future earning potential affected by injuries.
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain, emotional distress, and loss of life enjoyment.
• Car Damage: Repairs or fair market value if totaled.

Proving Liability in a Connecticut Hit-and-Run Case

Even without the driver, we can fight for you:

• Police Report & Witnesses: Evidence from the scene and witness statements can help establish fault.
• Traffic Cameras: Footage might reveal the driver or reconstruct the accident.
• Accident Experts: Specialists can analyze the scene to determine fault.
• Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage: Your insurance might cover hit-and-run accidents.

Don’t let the driver escape responsibility. Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys for a free consultation today.

How Long Will It Take to Settle My Case? 

Every case differs, but hit-and-run accidents can take longer to settle because finding the at-fault driver adds complexity. Here’s a general timeline:

Investigation & Evidence Gathering: 2-4 weeks (collecting medical records, police reports, etc.)

Negotiations with Insurance Company: 4-12 weeks (depending on complexity)

Settlement or Trial: Can take months or even a year (if negotiations fail)

Pearland Hit and Run Lawyer FAQs

What should I do after a hit-and-run accident?

• Call the police: Report the accident immediately and cooperate with their investigation.
• Seek medical attention: Get checked out by a doctor, even if you don’t feel serious injuries.
• Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, your car damage, and any injuries. Note down the time, location, and any witness information.
• Contact a hit-and-run lawyer: An experienced attorney can guide you through the legal process and fight for your deserved compensation.

Can I still get compensation if the driver is never found?

Yes. You may be able to recover compensation through:

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: This coverage on your auto insurance policy can help cover expenses in hit-and-run accidents.
• State Victim Compensation Fund: Depending on your state’s laws, you might be eligible for benefits from a victim compensation fund.

How long will it take to settle my case?

Hit-and-run cases can take longer to settle due to the difficulty of identifying the at-fault driver. The timeline can vary depending on the complexity of the case, but it typically involves:

• Investigation (2-4 weeks): Gathering evidence like medical records and police reports.
• Negotiations (4-12 weeks): Working with the insurance company to reach a fair settlement.
• Trial (Months or a year): A lawsuit and prosecution may be necessary if negotiations fail.

What can a hit-and-run lawyer do for me?

An experienced hit-and-run lawyer can:

• Investigate the accident and gather evidence to prove your case.
• Deal with the insurance company on your behalf.
• Negotiate for a fair settlement.
• Represent you in court if necessary.

Client Testimonials

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys has a proven track record of helping clients navigate these situations and achieve positive outcomes. Here are what some of our satisfied clients have to say:

• “DeHoyos Accident Attorneys were there for me every step of the way after my hit-and-run accident. They were professional, dedicated, and always kept me informed. Thanks to their hard work, I received the compensation I deserved for my injuries.” – Alice T. (Google Review)
  
• “I would highly recommend DeHoyos Accident Attorneys to anyone involved in a hit-and-run accident. Mr. DeHoyos is a fantastic lawyer who truly cares about his clients. He fought tirelessly for me and got me the needed results.” – Tanisha G.
  

Contact the Pearland TX Hit and Run Attorneys at DeHoyos Accident Attorneys Today!

Being the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Pearland, TX, can leave you feeling frustrated, hurt, and confused. The driver may be gone, but your rights and compensation aren’t.

DeHoyos Accident Attorneys can help. We are a team of experienced Pearland hit-and-run lawyers dedicated to fighting for clients injured in these complex accidents.

Be sure to get started on your road to recovery. Contact DeHoyos Accident Attorneys today for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice you deserve.