Defending Individuals in Austin Facing Charges of Hit-and-Run or Leaving the Scene of an Accident
Causing a motor vehicle collision or pedestrian accident – and then leaving the scene – can result in serious criminal charges and penalties, including fines and jail time. Not only can you be charged criminally, but you may also incur civil liability if the accident victim suffers an injury in the accident.
If you are facing a criminal charge, including a charge for a hit and run, it is essential that you have experienced legal counsel in your corner zealously advocating for you throughout your entire case. A lawyer can assist you by presenting a strong defense on your behalf or exploring other options, such as a plea deal, with the prosecuting attorney in your case. The knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys at Granger and Mueller, P.C., can help you select the legal option that best suits your needs and the needs of your case. Please contact us to learn more about how we can assist you with your criminal defense.
Texas Law Regarding Hit-and-Run Motor Vehicle Accidents
In the State of Texas, the law requires motor vehicle drivers who are involved in an accident to stop their vehicles and exchange certain information, including motor vehicle insurance information, with the other involved driver(s). If a driver leaves the scene of an accident without sharing this necessary information, he or she may be charged criminally with a hit-and-run. A driver can even be charged with a hit-and-run if he or she is involved in a minor crash with a vehicle that is parked – or with landscaping on someone else’s property.
In order for a driver who has been involved in an accident to fully comply with the law, he or she must supply the following information to the other involved driver(s):
● Your name, address, and any other relevant personal information
● Your vehicle’s registration number
● Your insurance company’s name
Moreover, under the law, you must present your driver’s license card if it is requested, and if someone is injured in the accident, you should provide assistance. Finally, in the event you strike a motor vehicle that is parked, you are required to leave a note for the driver/owner that contains all of the pertinent information.
Steps You Should Take if You Think You Left the Scene of an Accident Unlawfully
In order to protect yourself, there are certain steps that you should take if you believe you left the scene of a motor vehicle accident. First, you should refrain from speaking with law enforcement until after you have talked to an attorney. Similarly, you should not speak to your insurance company about the incident until you have spoken with a lawyer. Finally, you should speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible.
Speak to a Knowledgeable Austin Criminal Defense Attorney Today
The skilled legal team at Granger and Mueller, P.C., is committed to providing their clients with the experienced and result-driven legal representation that they need at every stage of the game. To schedule a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable Austin criminal defense lawyer, please call us at (512) 474-9999 or contact us online to learn more about how we can assist you with defending against your pending criminal motor vehicle charge.