HIT AND RUN ACCIDENTS ON THE RISE
Hit and run accidents are some of the most frustrating – and devastating – there are. A hit and run occurs when a driver of a motor vehicle is involved in an accident with another car, truck, pedestrian, or fixed object and flees the scene. These types of accidents often take place because the driver is intoxicated or otherwise operating the vehicle illegally. In Texas, anyone involved in a car accident is required to stay at the scene and exchange information with the other driver(s) and anyone else involved. When someone does not do this, they may be held liable for their actions.
According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA),
9.1 percent of all car accident fatalities and injuries happen as a result of a hit and run. Car accidents are one of the leading causes of death in the U.S., behind heart disease, cancer, and medical malpractice. While any traffic collision can be stressful and devastating, hit and run accidents are even more impactful. In an effort to reduce the prevalence of hit and run accidents, lawmakers have enhanced the severity of the potential penalties and criminal charges involved. Despite these efforts, hit and run deaths in the Dallas-Fort Worth area have increased 85 percent since 2012.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BEEN IN A HIT AND RUN ACCIDENT
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident, the first thing you should do is seek immediate medical attention. Once you are able to safely do so, try your best to recall any details from the incident and write them down. This may include:
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- A description of the vehicle
- The license plate number (if applicable)
- Any information from eye witnesses
Also, contact the police and file a report. It is important that you do not talk to any insurance providers if you have been injured or lost a loved one in a hit and run accident. Instead, contact a car or truck accident lawyer at Shamieh Law right away to protect your rights and ensure the insurance company does not take advantage of you.
The car accident lawyers at Shamieh Law understand how serious these accidents are and will do everything they can to get you the compensation you deserve. Finding the driver who was responsible for the hit and run can be quite difficult, but it is not impossible – you have a much higher chance with a personal injury attorney by your side. Shamieh Law offers free consultations and will answer any questions you may have about your case.