An Austin hit and run accident can be devastating, leaving victims with serious injuries or even death. Unfortunately, these types of accidents are becoming more common in Austin and elsewhere. It is important for anyone involved in a hit and run wreck to seek legal advice right away from an Austin car accident lawyer.
At Fletcher Law Office, we understand the emotional trauma that victims of Austin hit and run accidents experience. We can help you navigate the complex process of filing a claim after a an accident when the at fault driver is guilty of fleeing the scene of a collision. We are committed to helping you or a loved one seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries.
Hit and Run Austin Tx Lawyers
A hit and run accident is when a driver leaves the scene of a collision without stopping to exchange information or render aid. Texas law holds it to be a serious crime in the state of Texas, and depending on the severity of the crash, could result in fines, imprisonment, or both. In Austin, these types of accidents are more common than other parts of the state due to its busy streets and nightlife.
Hit and run accidents can cause serious damage to property, injury or even death. If you are involved in a hit-and-run accident in Austin, here are several important steps to complete to ensure that your rights are protected.
- Call 911 immediately to report the incident
- Gather as much information as possible including vehicle descriptions, license plate numbers and any identifying features of the driver who fled
- Document all damages sustained by taking photographs or videos if possible
- Keep track of any medical bills/expenses related to the accident
- Contact your insurer right away and provide your insurance information so they can start investigating the incident
Steps To Take If the Hit and Run Driver Cannot Be Found
Finding a hit and run driver who fled after causing an accident can be no easy task but with diligence and diligence of Texas law enforcement officers combined with assistance from witnesses and members of the community, it is possible for justice be served when it comes to these unfortunate incidents where a driver flees instead of taking responsibility for their actions. Here are some critical initial steps to take to try and track down the hit and run driver that fled the scene.
File a report with the police
Once you are in a safe place and have received medical care, the first thing you will want to is make sure the Texas authorities are aware of what happened. When filing this report, it is important to provide as much detail as possible about what happened during the incident. This includes providing information on both vehicles involved in the collision and any witnesses that may have seen what occurred. If there was another vehicle nearby, you may gather helpful info from the other driver.
Hit and run truck accidents are also common in Austin, as the city sits in central Texas and is a connection for many transportation routes through the state. If you have been injured in a truck accident, contact an Austin truck accident lawyer to discuss how to move forward searching for the at fault truck.
Work with the authorities to search for evidence
Once a report has been filed with the Austin Police Department, investigators can begin their search for hit and run drivers. In some cases, investigators may be able to locate surveillance video or eyewitness accounts that can link back to a particular vehicle or individual, which can help lead them towards apprehending a suspect.
Investigators also often use databases such as DMV records and social media sites like Facebook and Twitter. Austin police may put out a request for public information and to tip anonymously. This may be what is needed to make sure the feeling drivers are held accountable.
Search for Witnesses
Try to find any witnesses to the incident, that may provide further details about the suspect vehicle involved that was guilty of fleeing the scene. If there was anyone on the street near the collision, then they may have vital information on the identity of the driver that committed the hit and run, or possibly the vehicle they were driving.
Filing An Insurance Claim For A Hit and Run Accident
Filing an insurance claim after being involved in a hit and run crash can be a tricky process. It will require you to work with your own insurance company and provide information that ultimately can be very difficult to collect.
How to open the claim with your insurer
Once you have reported the hit and run car crash and collected all relevant evidence, you will need to contact your insurance provider. Most insurers will require documents such as police reports and photos in order for them to process your claim correctly. Your insurance provider will then review your evidence and decide whether or not it is sufficient enough for them to cover your losses.
How a hit and run car accident lawyer can help
One of the main ways your lawyer can help when working with your insurance company is by handling communications with the adjuster. Remember, often your insurance company does not have your best interest in mind. If they can avoid paying for your claim than they will benefit. Allowing your lawyer to handle the communication with the adjuster will ensure that they are not able to use your statements made to them over the phone against you. Your lawyer will properly explain how you have been injured and what you have lost.
Contact Our Austin Hit and Run Car Accident Lawyers For Help
If you’ve been injured in an Austin hit and run car accident, it’s important to find experienced legal representation as soon as possible. Our law firm specializes in auto accidents, including cases involving negligent drivers who have fled the scene after a hit and run in Austin. We know how to get your case started and seek fair compensation for your injuries. Call our firm today at 512-619-4006.