What to Do If the Other Driver Leaves the Scene After an Accident in Texas

A car accident is stressful enough on its own. When the other driver leaves the scene without stopping, it can make an already overwhelming situation even more confusing and frustrating.

If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Texas, it’s important to know that you still have options. Taking the right steps immediately after the accident can help protect your safety, preserve important evidence, and support any future insurance or legal claims.

What Is a Hit-and-Run Accident?

A hit-and-run accident occurs when a driver is involved in a collision and leaves the scene without stopping to provide their contact and insurance information or offer assistance when required by law.

In Texas, drivers involved in an accident are generally required to stop, exchange information, and, if necessary, render reasonable aid to anyone who has been injured.

What Should You Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident?

Although every situation is different, these steps can help protect you after a hit-and-run accident.

1. Check for Injuries and Move to Safety

Your health and safety should always come first. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location and call 911 if anyone is injured.

2. Call the Police

Report the accident as soon as possible. A police report creates an official record of the incident and may help investigators identify the driver who fled the scene.

3. Gather as Much Information as Possible

Even if the other driver leaves, try to remember details such as:

• Vehicle make and model
• Vehicle color
• License plate number (even a partial plate can help)
• Direction the vehicle was traveling
• Approximate time and location of the accident

If there were witnesses, ask for their names and contact information.

4. Take Photos

Photograph your vehicle, the accident scene, skid marks, debris, nearby traffic signs, and any visible damage.

These photos may become valuable evidence later.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Report the accident promptly and provide accurate information about what happened.

If the other driver cannot be identified, your own insurance coverage—such as uninsured motorist coverage, if applicable—may help cover certain damages.

Can You Still Recover Compensation?

Many people assume they have no options if the at-fault driver cannot be found. Fortunately, that isn’t always the case.

Depending on your insurance coverage and the circumstances of the accident, you may still be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, vehicle repairs, lost wages, and other damages.

Every case is unique, so it’s important to understand what options may be available.

Why Acting Quickly Matters

Evidence can disappear quickly after a hit-and-run accident. Surveillance footage may be overwritten, witnesses can become difficult to locate, and important details may be forgotten over time.

Taking action early can help preserve evidence and strengthen your claim.

How De la Garza Firm Can Help

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can leave you with more questions than answers. At De la Garza Firm, we’re committed to helping individuals and families throughout Fort Worth understand their legal options after an accident.

If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident, we’re here to answer your questions and help you understand the next steps.

Contact De la Garza Firm today to schedule a free consultation.

De la Garza Firm
Fort Worth, Texas
214-937-5077
https://delagarzafirm.com/

If you’ve been injured because of someone else’s negligence, it’s natural to focus on your recovery first. Between doctor appointments, medical bills, and time away from work, thinking about legal deadlines may be the last thing on your mind.

However, Texas law places time limits on how long you have to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long could affect your ability to seek compensation, making it important to understand your rights as soon as possible.

What Is the Statute of Limitations?

The statute of limitations is the legal deadline for filing a lawsuit. In Texas, the deadline for most personal injury claims is two years from the date the injury occurred.

This generally applies to cases involving:

• Car accidents
• Motorcycle accidents
• Truck accidents
• Slip and fall accidents
• Dog bites
• Pedestrian and bicycle accidents
• Many other personal injury claims

If a lawsuit is filed after the deadline has passed, the court may dismiss the case, preventing you from pursuing compensation.

Are There Any Exceptions?

While the two-year deadline applies to many cases, there are situations where different rules may apply.

Some exceptions include:

Injured Minors

If the injured person is under 18 years old, the filing deadline may be extended in certain circumstances.

Claims Involving Government Entities

If your claim involves a city, county, or another government agency, you may have much shorter notice requirements. These deadlines can arrive well before the standard two-year period.

Delayed Discovery

In some situations, an injury may not be immediately discovered. Depending on the circumstances, the filing deadline may begin when the injury is discovered or reasonably should have been discovered.

Because every case is different, it’s important to speak with an attorney about the specific deadlines that may apply to your situation.

Why You Shouldn’t Wait

Even though two years may sound like plenty of time, building a strong personal injury case often starts long before a lawsuit is filed.

Important evidence can disappear over time. Witnesses may become difficult to locate, surveillance footage may be deleted, and memories naturally fade.

Speaking with an attorney early can help preserve important evidence and give you a better understanding of your legal options.

What Should You Do After an Accident?

If you’ve been injured, consider taking these steps as soon as possible:

• Seek medical attention.
• Report the incident to the appropriate authorities.
• Keep copies of medical records and bills.
• Take photos of the accident scene and your injuries, if possible.
• Save any communication with insurance companies.
• Contact a personal injury attorney to discuss your situation.

How De la Garza Firm Can Help

At De la Garza Firm, we understand that every personal injury case is unique. Our team is committed to helping individuals and families throughout Fort Worth understand their legal options and navigate the claims process with confidence.

If you have questions about a recent accident or are unsure how much time you have to file a claim, we’re here to help.

Contact De la Garza Firm today to schedule a free consultation. accident, contact De la Garza Firm today for a free consultation.

214-937-5077 | delagarzafirm.com

6777 Camp Bowie Blvd Ste 450 Fort Worth, TX 76116