What Happens in a Hit and Run Accident?
Everyone involved in an accident has the responsibility to report the accident to the police or complete the CR-2 form when applicable.
Leaving the scene of an accident without lending assistance to the injured and providing your identification and auto insurance is considered a crime according to the Texas Penal Code. The applicable laws are as follows:
If the accident involves or is reasonably likely to involve personal injury or death it is required that the operator of the vehicle:
- immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident or as close to the scene as possible;
- immediately return to the scene of the accident if the vehicle is not stopped at the scene of the accident;
- immediately determine whether a person is involved in the accident, and if a person is involved in the accident, whether that person requires aid; and
- remain at the scene of the accident until the operator renders aid to those in need
The vehicle operator is required to stop the vehicle without obstructing traffic more than is necessary.
Non-compliance is considered an offense punishable by between two and ten years in state prison when the accident results in:
- death of a person
- serious bodily injury
In the absence of death or serious bodily injury, offenders could face up to five years in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice or confinement to county jail for up to one year, a fine up to $5,000 or a combination of imprisonment and fine.