Texas Hit and Run Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
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Hit and Run Motorcycle accidents are dreadful whenever they happen. Hit and run drivers usually are afraid of the consequences of their actions and are selfish enough to leave the scene instead of owning up to their mistake. Many times, these drivers can get away with minor damage to their vehicle, often because they hit a smaller object like a motorcycle. However, the motorcyclist, their passenger, and the bike may be left in horrible shape with no one there to pay for the damages.
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Statistics on Hit and Run Motorcycle Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 1,449 fatal hit and run crashes overall in 2011. A hit and run accident occur when one party to an accident flees the scene of the crash. When it comes to motorcycle accidents, this behavior can be especially devastating because the rider and any passenger may be left in life-threatening condition. In Texas, an individual who is involved in a motor vehicle collision in which people are injured or property is damaged is required to stop at the scene of the crash to exchange information and call for help if necessary. In fact, leaving the scene of an accident in which an injury or death occurred is a criminal offense in the state of Texas.
Tips For Hit And Run Motorcycle Victims
The end is not nigh when the responsible driver flees the scene of a motorcycle accident. The first step in any hit and run accident is first to get medical assistance for an injured person and to call the police to start an investigation. Many times, police will be able to find the person responsible for causing the accident by listening to witnesses, viewing video surveillance and other sources. The accident should be treated like any other, gathering as much evidence as possible, such as taking photos. Even though the police will investigate and collect information, it never hurts for the victims to get evidence as well.
- Take pictures. Most people have a camera or video option on their cell phone. Take photos and video of the accident scene, injuries and property damage.
- Get witnesses. If anyone is at the scene and witnessed what happened, make sure to get the names and contact information.
- Keep good records. Make sure to keep all receipts and documents of all expenses related to the accident, including medical treatments, repairs, towing and any other costs.
- Get the medical attention that you need. A delay locating a driver should not be a reason to forfeit medical care for an injury.
How Does Insurance Work in a Hit and Run Motorcycle Accident?
Hit and run insurance claims can be complicated. Victims of hit and run accidents may be wondering whether they will be able to file an insurance claim when the at-fault driver cannot be identified. If the identity of the other driver is unknown, you will obviously not be able to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. Consequently, you will need to file a first-party hit and run claim with your own insurer.
Generally speaking, your uninsured motorist coverage will cover hit and run accidents as long as you did not cause the crash. If you caused the hit and run accident or you only maintain liability coverage, your insurance company will not cover your medical or property damage expenses.
Unfortunately, sometimes hit and run drivers are not found and motorcycle victims are left with the high costs of medical bills, motorcycle repairs and lost wages. Luckily if they have uninsured motorist or even collision coverage through their own insurance company, they still may be able to recover the damages. Uninsured motorist coverage generally will pay for injuries and property damage incurred through a hit and run accident, up to the limit within their policy.
Common Reasons Driver Flee the Scene of an Accident
Here are some of the most common reasons hit and run drivers do not stop after an accident:
- Speeding
- Driving without insurance
- Driving without or on a suspended driver’s licenses
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Reckless driving
- Panic
- Fear of criminal or civil penalties
- Underage
Accident Attorneys Representing Texas Motorcyclists in Hit and Run Crashes
Regardless of whether you find the driver responsible for the hit and run accident or you put a claim through your uninsured motorist policy, it can behoove you to have an experienced Texas motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. Getting compensated fairly for your injuries and losses through an insurance company is not always easy.
Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Pascoe Law Firm can make sure you get what you deserve after being victimized in a hit-and-run motorcycle accident. We can advise you of your options and we work on a contingency fee basis, so there is no fee unless you are financially compensated. Contact us at 713-829-4317 to speak to our motorcycle accident lawyer.
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