Panicking and leaving the scene after a crash almost always makes your legal situation worse than the accident itself — Texas treats failing to stop and give information as its own separate crime, on top of anything related to the collision. A Houston hit and run lawyer can help you understand what’s actually being charged.
What the Law Requires After a Crash
- Stop immediately: Drivers involved in an accident have to stop at the scene or as close as safely possible.
- Exchange information: You’re required to provide your name, address, registration, and license to the other driver or law enforcement.
- Render aid: If anyone is injured, you’re required to provide reasonable assistance, including arranging transportation to medical care.
How Texas Punishes It
- Misdemeanor: Applies when the accident involved only property damage.
- Third-degree felony: Applies when the accident caused serious bodily injury or death and the driver failed to stop and provide information.
Where These Cases Are Defended
Whether you actually knew an accident occurred, whether you reasonably believed you had complied with the requirements, and whether you returned to the scene shortly after are all relevant. Confusion, shock, and fear in the moments after a crash are common — and they matter to how these cases are ultimately resolved.
Charged With Failure to Stop? Contact Blass Law Now
Contact Blass Law for a confidential case evaluation or call (713)-664-4000 as soon as possible after the incident.
Related Charges
Reviewed by Jay Blass Cohen, founder of Blass Law PLLC — ACS-CHAL Forensic Lawyer-Scientist, certified Drug Recognition Expert, and SFST instructor, serving Houston since 2009. This article is general information, not legal advice for your situation. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.