Hit and Run Consequences
When people collide in vehicles, the usual course of action is to get out of the car and exchange information with the other drivers involved. However, not all collisions are the same. Some people respond exceptionally poorly to car accidents by responding to their fight-or-flight instincts. When people experience a high level of stress or fear, they might react to their adrenaline rush by leaving the scene of an accident. This retreat is illegal in many states, including Texas.
If you strike a car or individual and speed away without leaving your information, you could be charged with leaving the scene of an accident. The punishment for this crime depends on the severity of the crash.
Is a Hit and Run a Felony in Texas?
The offense can range from a misdemeanor to a felony. If the accident involved a severe injury or death, you could be charged with a 3rd-degree felony, which can get you anywhere from 2 to 10 years in state prison. If the accident resulted in mild injuries, it is a felony punishable by up to 1 year in county jail or 5 years in state prison and/or a fine of up to $5,000.
Hit & Run Misdemeanor Penalties
A hit and run that involved damage to an occupied vehicle is a Class C misdemeanor, which can result in a $500 fine if the damage to all cars is less than $200. If the damage is more than $200, you could be charged with a Class B misdemeanor, which can result in imprisonment of up to 6 months. Other punishments can include probation (if it is your 1st offense) or a suspension of your driver’s license.
If you’re facing a hit and run charge, make sure you give yourself the best chance of avoiding a conviction by calling our skilled Houston criminal defense attorneys as soon as possible. We can take a look at your situation and offer experienced legal advice regarding your best course of action. If you are found guilty of a hit and run, you could lose your license and be forced to pay thousands of dollars in legal fines and expenses related to the accident. The Law Offices of Jed Silverman is dedicated to defending your rights and freedom. Let us see what we can do for you.
Contact us at (713) 597-2221 or fill out our online form to schedule a free case consultation today.