A hit-and-run crash is one where you are accused of hitting another person and leaving the scene without exchanging information or waiting for the proper authorities. If you are involved in any kind of collision, whether you caused it or not, it’s important for you to report the crash and to make sure you exchange information with the other driver.
Sometimes, though, people don’t realize that they’ve been involved in a crash. The impact might have been light, or the person’s vehicle may have been so large that they didn’t realize they hit something.
Unfortunately, if you are involved in a hit-and-run collision and are convicted of leaving the scene, you could end up facing fines and time in prison.
What are the penalties for a hit-and-run crash in Texas?
If the accident you were involved in had an injury or death and you left the scene, you could face felony charges. There is a chance that you could be imprisoned for up to five years and face fines of up to $5,000.
If you did not know that you were involved in the crash, then it may seem unfair to be accused of a hit-and-run. You are able to challenge the hit-and-run allegations and to fight for your own best interests.
How do you argue against a hit-and-run charge?
The first thing you can do is question if the other person has evidence that you were driving. For example, if you are accused of being involved in a crash but have no damage on your vehicle and were home all day, then it would be impossible. Your vehicle may match the description, but it may not be the right one.
Similarly, with no proof of an accident on your vehicle, it’s possible to show that the other person is making a false accusation. Accident fraud can, and does, occur, so it’s important to show that there is no evidence of a collision.
Finally, if you can show that a crash did happen but that you didn’t run, you can defend yourself. For instance, if the victim left the scene and you decided to go home, make sure you can get in touch with a witness to corroborate what happened.
These accusations have to be taken seriously because a felony conviction could have a negative impact on your future.