What Texas Law Says and How You May Still Recover Compensation

Being involved in a car accident is stressful enough. When the at-fault driver speeds away and leaves you behind, that stress often turns into confusion and anger. Many Texas accident victims worry they’re out of options if the other driver can’t be identified but that’s not always true.
Texas law treats hit-and-run accidents seriously and provides both criminal penalties for fleeing drivers and potential civil remedies for injured victims. Knowing how these cases work can help you protect your rights and avoid costly mistakes

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What Qualifies as a Hit-and-Run Accident in Texas?
Under Texas law, drivers involved in a crash must stop at the scene and provide basic information, including their name, insurance details, and vehicle registration. If anyone is injured, the driver must also render reasonable assistance.

When a driver leaves the scene without meeting these obligations, the accident becomes a hit-and-run. The severity of the criminal charge depends on the outcome of the crash—ranging from a misdemeanor to a felony if serious injury or death occurs.

Even if the driver claims they didn’t realize the seriousness of the accident, leaving the scene can still lead to criminal consequences.
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Immediate Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run


If the other driver flees, what you do next matters. Taking the right steps can protect both your health and your legal claim.


You should:


  • Call 911 immediately and report the accident
  • Seek medical attention, even if symptoms appear mild
  • Photograph vehicle damage, injuries, debris, and the roadway
  • Write down any details you remember about the fleeing vehicle
  • Obtain contact information from witnesses
  • Request a copy of the police report

Insurance companies often rely heavily on early documentation in hit-and-run cases.

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Can You Still File an Insurance Claim?


Yes—many Texas drivers are protected through uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, which may apply when the at-fault driver cannot be identified.


UM coverage can help pay for:


  • Medical bills
  • Lost income
  • Pain and suffering
  • Vehicle repairs

However, Texas law generally requires actual physical contact between vehicles for UM coverage to apply in hit-and-run claims. This rule exists to prevent fraudulent “phantom vehicle” claims and is often a point of dispute with insurers.

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What If the Hit-and-Run Driver Is Found Later?


In some cases, law enforcement identifies the fleeing driver days or even weeks after the accident. When that happens, victims may be able to pursue:


  • A personal injury claim directly against the driver
  • Additional damages beyond insurance limits

Importantly, a criminal case against the driver does not prevent a separate civil claim. These are two different legal processes with different goals.

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Why Hit-and-Run Claims Are Often Disputed


Hit-and-run cases can be more complex than typical car accident claims. Insurance companies may question:


  • Whether physical contact occurred
  • Whether injuries are accident-related
  • Whether UM coverage applies

Without careful handling, valid claims may be delayed or denied. Legal guidance can help ensure deadlines are met and evidence is properly presented.

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How a Texas Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help


An experienced attorney can:


  • Investigate the accident and gather evidence
  • Handle communications with insurers
  • Determine whether UM coverage applies
  • Pursue compensation from all available sources

This is especially important when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.

If you were injured in a Texas hit-and-run accident, you may still have legal options—even if the driver fled the scene.



Wyde & Associates can evaluate your case, explain your insurance coverage, and help you pursue compensation under Texas law. Contact us today to take the next step forward with confidence.

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