Is a Hit and Run a Felony in Texas? Penalties & Texas Statutes

If you were injured in a traffic accident and the driver fled the scene, you may wonder whether a hit-and-run is a felony. In Texas, hit-and-run laws are strictly enforced, especially when victims suffer serious injuries or death. Drivers are required to stop, provide assistance, and remain at the scene of the accident.

When a driver leaves after causing injury or harm, criminal charges, fines, or prison penalties may apply under Texas law. If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident, speaking with a Houston car accident lawyer can help protect your right to compensation and legal recovery.

Hit and Run in Texas

Hit and run accidents in Texas are mainly governed by the Texas Transportation Code. The law requires drivers to stop after a crash, help injured victims, and provide contact information. Leaving the accident scene is considered a serious offense, especially when the victim is injured or killed.

If you were hurt by a driver who fled the scene, understanding your legal rights is important. You may be entitled to medical expense compensation, lost wages, and other damages. If you are unsure about your rights or searching for a car accident lawyer near me, understanding these laws is important.

Accident Involving Injury or Death

Under Texas law, specifically Texas Transportation Code §550.021, drivers must stop and assist when a crash causes serious injury or death. Leaving the accident scene after causing harm is treated as a serious criminal offense and may be charged as a third-degree felony depending on the case circumstances.

• Prison Sentence (2 to 10 Years): Convicted drivers may face imprisonment in state correctional facilities for serious pedestrian or traffic accident injuries. The exact sentence depends on injury severity, criminal intent, and prior driving record.

• Criminal Fine (Up to $10,000): Courts may impose financial penalties reaching $10,000 in addition to imprisonment. The amount is determined by accident circumstances, victim harm, and judicial evaluation.

• Driver’s License Suspension: Driving privileges may be suspended for several months or longer. License reinstatement may require completion of legal requirements or court orders.

• Permanent Criminal Record: A felony conviction can create long-term criminal history consequences that may affect employment, insurance rates, and future driving privileges.

When Does Hit and Run Become a Felony?

In Texas, a hit and run is usually treated as a felony when the accident causes serious injury or death. If you were injured, consulting an attorney such as Abogada Kim Bruno may help you understand compensation options. A hit and run may be considered a felony when:

• The victim suffers serious bodily injury: Accidents causing life-threatening trauma, permanent disability, or severe physical harm are often prosecuted as felony offenses under Texas traffic safety laws.

• The crash results in death: If a pedestrian, driver, or passenger dies because of the accident, criminal charges may escalate to felony prosecution.

• The driver intentionally escapes responsibility: Leaving the accident scene to avoid identification, police investigation, or legal accountability can lead to felony charges.

• The driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Driving while intoxicated or impaired greatly increases criminal liability and may result in harsher punishment.

• Emergency medical help was not provided: Failing to call emergency responders or assist injured victims can be considered aggravating criminal behavior.

What Should You Do After an Accident?

If you were hit by a vehicle, your safety should be the priority. Texas law requires drivers to stop and help accident victims after a crash.

• Move to a safe location if possible: Avoid further danger from traffic or secondary collisions.

• Check injuries immediately: Look for pain, bleeding, or internal injury symptoms that may require urgent care.

• Call law enforcement: Report the crash so police can document accident details.

• Gather information: Collect driver, vehicle, and witness details if possible

• Seek medical attention: Even minor symptoms should be medically evaluated.

When to Contact a Lawyer

Hit and run crashes can cause serious injuries, financial hardship, and emotional trauma, especially when the driver leaves the scene. You should contact a lawyer if you suffered physical injuries, the driver cannot be identified, or police are actively investigating the accident. Legal guidance is also important if insurance companies deny your claim or dispute fault.

You may also need an attorney if medical bills are increasing, you are unable to work, or you need help filing an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim. If settlement offers seem too low, you need clarity about your legal rights, or you are considering filing a personal injury lawsuit, early legal support can protect your compensation.