Richmond TX Hit and Run Lawyer
A hit-and-run accident can leave victims feeling overwhelmed and helpless. In Richmond, Texas, if you are involved in a hit-and-run accident, knowing your rights and the steps you need to take to protect yourself is essential.
A Richmond hit and run accident lawyer at Vendt Accident Attorneys can help.
At Vendt Accident Attorneys, we are dedicated to helping victims of hit-and-run accidents get the justice and compensation they deserve.
Choose a team that is as committed to your success as you are. Call us at (832) 276-9474 to schedule an appointment with us and find out what a difference experience makes.
THE VENDT ACCIDENT FIRM
What is a Hit and Run?
A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver involved in a collision leaves the scene without providing contact information or offering assistance to the injured parties.
This irresponsible behavior violates traffic laws and leaves victims with the burden of dealing with the aftermath on their own.
Hit-and-run accidents can involve other vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, or property.
What To Do After a Hit And Run Accident
Stay Calm and Safe
After the accident, stay calm and ensure you and any passengers are safe. Move to a secure location if your vehicle obstructs traffic or poses a danger.Call 911
Immediately report the accident to the police. Provide them with as much information as possible, including the other vehicle’s make, model, and color and any details about the driver.Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.Gather Information
Collect as much information as you can from the scene. Take photos of your vehicle, the location, and any visible damages. If there are witnesses, get their contact information and statements about what they saw.Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company and provide them with all the information you have gathered. They will guide you through the process of filing a claim.Contact a Hit and Run Lawyer
Reach out to an experienced hit-and-run lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and work to identify the responsible party.SCHEDULE YOUR FREE CONSULTATION
Call Our Richmond Hit and Run Lawyer Today
Don’t let your chance for financial recovery slip away. Our Richmond hit and run injury lawyer will assess your case honestly and precisely and help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Everyone deserves a fair chance. And we are here to provide you with the legal assistance necessary to get you there. You just need to offer us the case details, and we can begin fighting for you today. Contact us today for a consultation.
How The Hit and Run Lawyers at Vendt Accident Attorneys in Richmond TX Can Help You
Legal Guidance
Our lawyers will provide expert legal advice and guide you through every step of the legal process, ensuring you understand your rights and options.Investigation
We will conduct a thorough investigation to gather evidence, including reviewing surveillance footage, interviewing witnesses, and working with law enforcement to track down the responsible driver.Insurance Negotiation
Our team will handle all communications with insurance companies, negotiating on your behalf to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries and damages.Court Representation
If necessary, we will represent you in court, presenting a compelling case to ensure you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.Texas Hit and Run Laws
TRANSPORTATION CODE CHAPTER 550. COLLISIONS
Under Texas law, specifically the Transportation Code Chapter 550, drivers involved in accidents resulting in injury, death, or significant property damage must stop and provide their information.
Failing to do so can result in severe penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Is a Hit-and-Run Accident Considered a Misdemeanor in Richmond, Texas?
In Texas, the severity of the charges for a hit-and-run accident depends on the circumstances. If the accident damages property, it may be classified as a misdemeanor.
However, if the accident causes injury or death, it can be charged as a felony, carrying more severe penalties.
Penalties of a Hit & Run
Penalties for a hit-and-run in Texas can range from fines and probation to significant prison time, depending on the severity of the accident and whether it caused injury or death.
Working With The Insurance Company
Dealing with insurance companies after a hit-and-run accident can be challenging. Insurance adjusters may attempt to minimize your claim or shift blame.
It’s crucial to have an experienced lawyer who can handle these negotiations and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages and injuries.
Damages You Might Recover
Medical Expenses
Compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and future medical care related to the accident.Lost Wages
Reimbursement for lost income due to time off work or reduced earning capacity resulting from your injuries.Pain and Suffering
Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and the impact on your quality of life.Property Damage
Reimbursement for repairing or replacing your damaged vehicle and other personal property.Local Texas Statistics in Regards to Hit and Runs
Importance of Reporting:
Even if the other driver’s details are unknown, reporting a hit-and-run accident to the police is crucial. This initiates an official investigation and strengthens your potential claim when working with your insurance company or pursuing legal action. Vendt Accident Attorneys can help you navigate the process of reporting the accident and ensure your rights are protected.Vendt Accident Attorneys helped me through a very difficult time after my hit-and-run accident. Their team was professional, compassionate, and dedicated to getting me the compensation I deserved.
– Jane D.
I was impressed with how Vendt Accident Attorneys handled my case. They were always available to answer my questions and kept me informed every step of the way. I highly recommend them.
– John S.
Common Types of Hit and Run Accidents
Pedestrian Accidents
Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable in hit-and-run accidents, often suffering severe injuries due to the lack of protection.Bicycle Accidents
Cyclists involved in hit-and-run accidents can sustain serious injuries, especially if they are struck by larger vehicles.Vehicle Collisions
Hit-and-run accidents involving two or more vehicles are common. They can range from minor fender-benders to severe collisions causing significant damage and injuries.Parking Lot Accidents
Hit-and-run incidents frequently occur in parking lots, where drivers may flee after hitting a parked car without leaving a note or contact information.A Hit and Run Accident Lawyer Can Help Track Down The Other Driver
Surveillance Footage
Reviewing security footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras that may have captured the accident.Witness Statements
Collecting statements from witnesses who may have seen the accident or the fleeing driver.Vehicle Damage Analysis
Analyzing the damage to your vehicle to determine the make and model of the other vehicle involved.Types of Compensation in a Hit-and-Run Case
Medical Expenses
Covering the cost of medical treatment, rehabilitation, and any future medical needs related to the accident.Lost Wages
Reimbursement for lost income due to time off work or reduced earning capacity.Pain and Suffering
Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident.Property Damage
Reimbursement for the cost of repairing or replacing damaged property.Proving Liability in a Texas Hit-and-Run Case
Gathering Evidence
Collecting evidence from the accident scene, such as photos, witness statements, and surveillance footage.Working with Law Enforcement
Collaborating with police to track down the hit-and-run driver and obtain their statement.Expert Testimony
Expert witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists, were utilized to establish how the accident occurred and who was at fault.Can Hit-and-Run Accidents Be Dismissed?
In some cases, hit-and-run charges can be dismissed if the accused can demonstrate a lack of evidence or prove they were not involved in the accident.
However, each case is unique, and the outcome depends on the specific circumstances and the quality of the legal representation.
How Long Will It Take to Settle My Case?
The time it takes to settle a hit-and-run case varies depending on the case’s complexity, the extent of the injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate.
While some cases may be resolved within a few months, others may take longer if they go to trial.
LET’S TALK ABOUT YOUR CASE AT NO COST TO YOU
Richmond Hit and Run Lawyer FAQs
Can I file a claim if I was a pedestrian involved in a hit and run?
Absolutely. Pedestrians struck by hit-and-run drivers have the right to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related expenses.
What if the hit-and-run driver is caught after I've filed my claim?
This can be beneficial if the hit-and-run driver is identified after you’ve filed your claim. Your Richmond hit-and-run accident lawyer can help you directly pursue additional legal action against the at-fault driver. This could lead to a higher recovery for your damages.
Will my insurance rates increase if I file a hit and run claim?
Unfortunately, filing a hit-and-run claim may affect your insurance rates. However, insurance companies consider various factors, and every situation is unique. Your lawyer can advise you on the specific details of your policy and its potential impacts.
How can a lawyer assist in locating the hit and run driver?
A skilled Richmond hit-and-run lawyer has the experience and resources to increase the chances of finding the at-fault driver. Here are some ways a lawyer might help:
Reviewing Surveillance Footage: Security cameras from nearby businesses or traffic lights might have captured footage of the accident. Your lawyer can work to obtain and analyze this footage.
Gathering Witness Statements: Witnesses may have seen the accident or the vehicle involved. Your lawyer will work to identify and interview potential witnesses to collect their accounts.
Analyzing Vehicle Damage: The damage to your vehicle can offer clues about the hit-and-run vehicle’s make, model, and potential color. This information can be used to narrow down the search.
Collaborating with Law Enforcement: Your lawyer can work with law enforcement to share information and explore investigative avenues.
What should I avoid doing after a hit and run accident?
Here are some essential things to avoid after a hit-and-run accident:
- Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation: Insurance adjusters work for the insurance company, and their primary goal is to minimize payouts. Having a lawyer present can ensure your rights are protected and you receive a fair settlement.
- Admitting Fault: Avoid taking responsibility for the accident even if the situation is unclear. Let your lawyer handle communication with insurance companies and other parties involved.
- Accepting a Quick Settlement Offer: Insurance companies might pressure you to accept a quick settlement offer. This offer may be significantly lower than what you deserve. Consult with your lawyer before accepting any settlement offers.
Disclaimer And Legal Information
The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. Viewing or accessing this website does not create an attorney-client relationship between you and Vendt Accident Attorneys.
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained on this website.
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Please be aware that laws and legal procedures vary by jurisdiction and may change over time. Therefore, consulting with a qualified attorney is essential to obtain personalized legal advice tailored to your situation. If you have any questions or concerns about the information provided on this website, please contact us for further assistance.