Defend yourself from a hit-and-run offense with legal aid
A hit-and-run offense can have severe consequences, including criminal charges, fines, license suspension, and even potential jail time. However, it’s crucial to remember that everyone deserves a fair defense and the opportunity to present their side of the story.
At Scott M. Brown & Associates, we understand the stress and uncertainty of being accused of a hit and run. Our dedicated team of experienced defense attorneys is here to provide you with the guidance, support, and proficiency necessary to navigate the complex legal process ahead.
With years of successful experience representing clients in hit-and-run cases, we have developed a strong reputation for our comprehensive understanding of Texas traffic laws and our tenacity in defending our clients’ rights. We take pride in meticulously examining the details of each case, uncovering crucial evidence, and building a robust defense strategy specifically tailored to your unique case.
If you or someone you know is facing the serious charge of a hit-and-run incident, Scott M. Brown & Associates is the right place to seek help. Call our League City hit and run defense lawyer now!
What is Hit and Run?
In Texas, a hit and run, also known as leaving the scene of an accident, refers to being involved in a car accident and leaving the scene without stopping to provide necessary information or helping the parties involved. Under Texas law, it is a serious offense that carries legal consequences.
What are the Laws Under Hit and Run in Texas?
Hit-and-run offenses are taken very seriously by the legal system in League City, Texas. The laws about hit-and-run incidents aim to ensure accountability and protect the rights of all individuals involved in a motor vehicle accident. Here are the crucial laws under hit and run in League City, Texas:
- Duty to Stop and Provide Information: According to Texas Transportation Code Section 550.021, if you are involved in an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage, you are legally required to stop immediately at the accident scene. You must provide your name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to the other parties involved or to a police officer if one is present.
- Duty to Render Aid: Texas Transportation Code Section 550.023 mandates that if a person is injured in an accident, they must provide reasonable assistance. That includes seeking medical help for the injured individual if necessary or contacting emergency services.
- Reporting the Accident: If the accident resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000, you must disclose the accident to the appropriate law enforcement agency within ten days, as stated in Texas Transportation Code Section 550.026.
- Penalties for Hit and Run: A hit and run offense can be classified as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the incident. Penalties could include fines, license suspension, probation, community service, and imprisonment. The consequences can be significantly more severe in cases involving serious injury or death.
- Leaving/Fleeing the Scene: Leaving the scene of an accident without fulfilling the obligations mentioned above is considered a criminal offense. It is crucial to understand that fleeing the scene, even if you believe you were not at fault, can lead to additional legal trouble and potentially worsen your situation.
Navigating the legal complexities of hit-and-run cases requires the prowess of a skilled defense attorney who understands the intricacies of the law and can protect your rights.
At Scott M. Brown & Associates, we are well-versed in the hit-and-run laws of League City, Texas. We can also provide guidance and representation to help you navigate the legal process effectively.
What Should I Do After A Hit-and-Run Accident?
If you find yourself involved in a hit-and-run accident in League City, Texas, it’s essential to take the following steps:
- Stay at the Scene: It is crucial to remain at the accident scene. Leaving the scene of a hit and run can lead to serious legal consequences.
- Check for Injuries: Ensure your safety and check if you or anyone else involved in the accident requires immediate medical attention. If necessary, call for emergency medical assistance.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Call the police and report the hit-and-run incident. Provide them with as much information as possible, including the location, description of the other vehicle involved (if known), and any relevant details. It is crucial to do this as soon as possible while the details are fresh in your mind.
- Gather Information: Collect as much information as you can about the hit-and-run incident. That includes noting the time, location, and circumstances of the accident. Try to obtain contact information if there are any witnesses. Also take photos of the accident scene, damage to your vehicle, and any other relevant evidence.
- Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company: Contact your insurance company and inform them about the hit-and-run accident. Provide them with all the details you have gathered. They can guide you through filing a claim and help assess the damage.
- Consult with a Hit and Run Defense Attorney: Seeking legal representation from an experienced League City hit and run defense lawyer as soon as possible is advisable. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help build a strong defense strategy.
Remember, every hit-and-run case is unique. The steps you should take may vary depending on the specific circumstances. Consulting with an attorney at Scott M. Brown & Associates will ensure you receive personalized guidance tailored to your situation and help you navigate the legal complexities effectively.
What are the Types of Damages They Can Sue Against Me?
In League City, Texas, if you are the responsible party in a hit-and-run accident, the potential types of damages that can be pursued against you may include:
- Property Damage: The victim can seek compensation for repairing costs or replacing their damaged property, such as their vehicle or other damaged belongings.
- Medical Expenses: If the victim sustained injuries in the hit-and-run accident, they can pursue compensation for medical expenses incurred. That includes hospital bills, doctor’s fees, medication costs, rehabilitation expenses, and other necessary medical treatments.
- Pain and Suffering: Damages for pain and suffering are intended to compensate the victim for the physical pain, emotional distress, mental anguish, and diminished quality of life caused by the hit-and-run accident and resulting injuries.
- Lost Wages: If the victim cannot work due to their injuries, they may seek compensation for lost income during their recovery period. Those include wages, salaries, bonuses, and any other financial benefits they would have earned had the accident not occurred.
- Loss of Consortium: Damages for loss of consortium may be pursued in cases where the victim’s injuries have severely impacted their relationship with their spouse or family members. That compensates for the loss of companionship, affection, support, and guidance from the hit-and-run accident.
Consulting with a hit and run defense attorney familiar with the local laws and regulations will help you understand the potential damages you may face and develop a defense strategy to mitigate their impact.
How Can I File for A Defense Case?
To effectively file a defense in a hit-and-run case in League City, Texas, follow these steps:
- Consult with a Hit and Run Defense Lawyer: Seek the guidance of a competent hit and run defense attorney knowledgeable with the laws and legal procedures in League City, Texas. They will evaluate your case, assess the available evidence, and provide excellent advice on building a solid defense strategy tailored to your circumstances.
- Review the Evidence: Work closely with your lawyer to review and analyze all the evidence related to the hit-and-run case. That includes any evidence collected at the scene, witness statements, surveillance footage, or other relevant documentation. Your attorney will identify any weaknesses or inconsistencies in the prosecution’s case and use them to strengthen your defense.
- Establish an Alibi or Lack of Intent: If possible, provide your lawyer with evidence or testimony that establishes your presence elsewhere during the hit-and-run incident. An alibi can help determine that you were not involved in the accident. Your attorney may also argue that there was no intent to flee the scene and that there were valid reasons for your departure.
- Challenge the Prosecution’s Case: Your lawyer will scrutinize the evidence presented by the prosecution and challenge its credibility or relevance. They may question the accuracy of witness statements, the reliability of physical evidence, or the interpretation of surveillance footage.
- Identify Alternative Explanations or Defenses: Your attorney will work with you to identify any alternative explanations or defenses that could undermine the prosecution’s case. That may involve presenting evidence of mistaken identity, lack of evidence linking you to the accident, or disputing the accuracy of the witness statements.
- Negotiate with the Prosecution: your attorney may negotiate with the prosecution to seek a favorable resolution in some cases. Those could involve reducing charges, exploring alternative sentencing options, or pursuing a plea bargain if appropriate.
- Prepare for Trial: If your case proceeds to trial, your lawyer will develop a comprehensive trial strategy. That includes preparing witnesses, cross-examining the prosecution’s witnesses, presenting evidence, and presenting a solid defense on your behalf.
Dealing with a hit and run defense in League City, Texas, requires the extensive knowledge of a skilled attorney who understands the local laws and legal procedures. Working closely with your defense lawyer throughout the process is crucial to building a powerful defense and ensuring the best chances of a favorable outcome.
Call Our League City Hit and Run Defense Lawyer Now!
Are you in need of a skilled hit and run defense lawyer in League City, Texas? Look no further! Our experienced attorneys at Scott M. Brown & Associates are here to provide you with the strong defense you deserve.
Facing charges related to a hit-and-run incident can be daunting, but we have the knowledge and dedication to guide you through the legal process. We understand the complexities of hit-and-run cases and will work tirelessly to protect your rights and fight for the best possible outcome.
Don’t wait another moment to secure the legal representation you need. Let us stand by your side, advocate for your rights, and help you navigate the challenges ahead. When defending your future, choose a team that is committed to your success. We can help you with other practice areas, such as family law and personal injury. Call us today and let us fight for you!
