What Are People Required To Do In Hit And Run Accidents?

RickOliver • Apr 28, 2019

No one wants to be involved in a car accident. It’s a bad situation. Nevertheless, they happen. It’s why we’re all required by Texas law to be covered by a policy of insurance. So, in most cases, if you are involved in an accident—and the accident was your fault—the worst that can happen will be limited to whether your insurance company decides to cancel or increase your insurance rate. But, leaving the scene or running from it will turn a bad situation into a criminal one.

The duties imposed on those involved in car accidents differ depending on what happened as a result of the accident.

The first thing the law requires you to do is to check on the other driver.

If the other driver is clearly injured or seems like they might be injured the law insists that you “render aid.”

That doesn’t mean you have to pull them out of the car and immediately begin chest compressions. In fact, that’s a bad idea and probably the worst thing you could do.

The easiest and smartest thing to do is to simply call 911. If you don’t have a phone use common sense (e.g. flag down another driver and ask for help, find the nearest home or business and ask if they can call 911, etc.). If you don’t remain on-scene to render aid you may be charged with a crime.

In the parlance of criminal law this offense is referred to by its acronym, FSRA. It stands for Failure to Stop and Render Aid. The consequences in criminal court for someone convicted of this offense can be severe.

If you fail to render aid and the other driver involved in the accident dies from his or her injuries you can be charged with a second degree felony—two to twenty (2-20) years in prison. If the other driver suffers “serious bodily injury” you can be charged with a third degree felony—two to ten (2-10) years in prison. And, “serious bodily injury” doesn’t mean what you likely think it means. A broken clavicle that will heal within 6-8 weeks might be sufficiently “serious” to warrant law enforcement filing this kind of charge. Even injuries amounting to “bumps and bruises” can result in confinement for up to five years in prison if a driver involved in the accident fails to remain on scene to render aid.

If no one was injured as a result of the accident the law only requires you to provide the other driver with the information they will need to file an insurance claim.

You must provide your name and address (or just show them your Texas Driver’s License and give them the opportunity to write down the information), the registration number of the vehicle, and the name of your insurance provider.

Traffic Safety Awareness: Legal Penalties for Violations

15 May, 2024
This National Traffic Safety Month, we aim to shed light on the potential legal implications of common traffic violations such as speeding, distracted driving, and more. Our goal is to help you stay informed and navigate the complexities of traffic law effectively. Here are some frequently asked questions about traffic violations and their penalties. What are the penalties for speeding? Speeding tickets can result in fines ranging from under $50 to several hundred dollars. The exact amount often depends on how much you were exceeding the speed limit and the jurisdiction in which the offense occurred. For excessive speeding or repeated offenses, the penalties can be more severe, potentially escalating to criminal charges, including misdemeanors or felonies, depending on state laws and the specifics of the violation. What constitutes distracted driving and what are the penalties? Distracted driving primarily includes behaviors such as texting while driving. Penalties for distracted driving vary widely across states, typically ranging from $20 to $250 for fines. However, some states impose even higher fines, especially for first-time offenses, reflecting the growing recognition of the risks associated with distracted driving. How are red light violations penalized? Fines for running red lights can vary significantly, generally ranging from $50 to $500. The exact penalty depends on local laws and the circumstances surrounding the violation. What are the consequences of driving under the influence (DUI)? Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense with severe penalties. These can include heavy fines, license suspension, mandatory education programs, and even imprisonment. What other consequences can traffic violations have? Traffic violations can lead to increased car insurance premiums and points on your driver's license. Accumulating points can result in license suspension, mandatory driver retraining, or other administrative actions. These consequences can significantly impact your financial and legal standing. How can Cockrell & Oliver Law Firm help if I'm facing charges for a traffic violation? Our experienced legal team can assist you in navigating the legal system to potentially reduce fees or charges. This support is crucial in preventing long-term financial or legal repercussions. If you have more questions or need assistance with a traffic-related legal issue, please do not hesitate to call us at. Our expert team is here to help you understand your rights and options.

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