Getting hit by a driver who speeds away is shocking and deeply unfair. But if you managed to get the license plate, you already hold a key piece of evidence. Here is what you should do next to protect your health, your rights, and your injury claim.

1. Do Not Chase the Fleeing Driver

Never follow the vehicle that fled. Staying at the scene is both the safest choice and the legally required one. If you were able to capture the license plate number, keep it safe and give it to the police.

2. Get Medical Attention Immediately

Your health comes first. Call 911 if no one has already done so. Even if you feel fine, get checked by a doctor. Some injuries take days or weeks to show symptoms. An early medical evaluation helps protect your well being and creates essential documentation for your compensation claim.

Follow all medical instructions, ask for copies of any diagnoses, and avoid telling anyone you are “fine.” Insurance companies often use early statements against victims later.

3. Gather as Much Evidence as You Can

A license plate helps, but additional evidence strengthens your case. If you are able, try to collect:

  • Names and phone numbers of witnesses
  • Photos or videos of the fleeing vehicle
  • The exact location of the crash
  • The direction the vehicle went
  • Details about the vehicle: make, model, color, distinctive damage or decals

Anything you document now can make the insurance investigation faster and more accurate.

4. Report the Hit and Run to the Police

Call 911 and share every detail you have, especially the license plate number and any identifying features of the vehicle. A police report is essential for your insurance claim and for holding the at fault driver accountable.

5. Call Hilda Sibrian® – Houston Hit and Run Accident Attorneys

Insurance companies defend their bottom line, not you. After a hit and run with injuries, they often try to pay victims as little as possible or deny claims altogether.

At The Law Offices of Hilda Sibrian®, we make sure that does not happen. Our job is to stand up to the insurance companies and fight for every dollar the law says you deserve.

Call 713-714-1414 or request a free consultation online. Our team speaks Spanish and is available 24/7.

Why Do Drivers Flee After an Accident?

Hit and run crashes happen more often than most people realize. According to data reviewed by the Texas Department of Insurance, there is a hit and run crash every 43 seconds in the United States.

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Drivers flee for many reasons, including:

  • Fear of legal consequences, such as arrest, DUI charges, or outstanding warrants
  • No insurance or driving without a valid license
  • Panic and poor judgment in the moment
  • Lack of knowledge about legal responsibilities after a crash
  • Worry about financial liability for injuries or property damage
  • Criminal history or probation concerns
  • Vehicle issues, such as expired registration or other violations
  • Emotional distress caused by the collision

Whatever the reason, fleeing the scene is illegal and carries severe consequences.

Texas Penalties for Fleeing an Accident

Texas law takes hit and run crashes very seriously. Penalties depend on the severity of the crash.

Hit and Run with Property Damage

This is generally a misdemeanor and may result in:

  • Fines up to $2,000
  • Up to six points on the driver’s license
  • License suspension for up to one year

Hit and Run with Injuries

This becomes a felony and may lead to:

  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Up to six license points
  • License suspension for up to three years
  • Up to two years in jail

Hit and Run Resulting in Wrongful Death

This is a third degree felony and may result in:

  • Fines up to $10,000
  • Up to six license points
  • License suspension up to three years
  • Up to 10 years in prison

In addition to criminal penalties, the driver may be held financially responsible for medical bills, vehicle repairs, funeral expenses, and other damages.

Where to Get the Best Legal Help After a Hit and Run Accident

For more than 20 years, Hilda Sibrian® – Accident Attorneys has fought for injured victims across Houston. Our approach is simple: compassionate service for clients and aggressive action against insurance companies.

You pay nothing out of pocket. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means if you do not win, you do not pay.

If you were injured in a hit and run crash, call 713-714-1414 or request a free consultation online today.