After a hit and run crash, many Texans wonder how they’ll cover medical bills, lost income, or vehicle repairs. In many cases, your own insurance provides coverage. Policies like uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM), personal injury protection (PIP), or collision may apply, but figuring out which one pays, and how much, can be overwhelming.
A Houston personal injury lawyer like Joe Stephens can guide you through the fine print, explain your options, and determine whether additional claims are possible. Since 1985, Joe has helped hundreds of accident victims across Texas recover the compensation they need. Hit and run accidents are more common than you might think, especially in Houston and along major Texas highways. You don’t have to navigate the insurance process alone if you’ve been injured in one.Â
Get your free case evaluation today by calling 281-201-0035 or using the contact form.
What Is Considered a Hit and Run in Texas?
Under Texas law, a hit and run occurs when a driver leaves the scene of an accident without stopping to provide help or exchange information. These accidents take many forms, such as a parked car being sideswiped in a lot, a pedestrian being struck in a crosswalk, or a collision on a freeway.
No matter the circumstances, the driver’s failure to stop is a criminal offense. For victims, though, the challenge shifts to the civil side, where they must look to insurance and legal action to recover damages caused by the crash.
Who Pays If the Hit and Run Driver Is Never Found?
Victims often feel stuck when the at-fault driver cannot be identified, but several coverages may apply.
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage: applies when the at-fault driver is unidentified or uninsured and commonly works alongside liability insurance in Texas
- Personal injury protection: pays medical bills and a portion of lost income regardless of fault, with no deductible
- Collision coverage: repairs your vehicle, subject to a deductible, but does not cover injuries
- Health insurance: may help with medical costs, though it often leaves coverage gaps
- Texas Crime Victims’ Compensation Program: offers limited financial help through the Attorney General’s office
- Out-of-pocket costs: may apply if no coverage is available, underscoring why legal guidance is critical
An experienced hit and run lawyer in Houston, like Joe Stephens, can review your policies and pursue every path to compensation.
What If the Driver Is Found Later?
If the driver is identified, you may file a third-party claim against their insurance. If they are uninsured or underinsured, your UM/UIM coverage could fill the gap, or you may sue them directly. If the driver flees again, the case becomes more complex.Â
Joe Stephens investigates, preserves evidence, and works to hold negligent drivers accountable in both civil and criminal matters.
What If You Were Partially at Fault for the Crash?
Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover compensation if you are partly at fault for the accident, as long as your share of fault is 50 percent or less.
This rule often allows insurance companies to reduce payouts. That’s why having experienced legal help matters. Joe Stephens challenges unfair fault claims so you can maximize recovery after a Texas hit and run accident.
What to Do After a Hit and Run Accident
The steps you take right after a hit and run can make a major difference. Acting quickly protects your health, strengthens your claim, and increases the chance of identifying the driver.
One of the first and most important actions is filing a police report. The details in an accident report can heavily influence how insurers handle your Houston car accident claim.
From there, each step you take helps build the foundation of your case:
- Call 911 and file a police report
- Take photos or videos of the scene
- Get witness contact information
- Look for nearby cameras
- Notify your insurer promptly
- Seek medical care
- Call Joe Stephens
Joe Stephens has guided hundreds of Texans through these steps. He knows how to use reports, photos, and medical records to build strong claims and improve the chances of a full recovery.
How Joe Stephens Helps Victims of Hit and Run Accidents
When you’re dealing with the stress of a hit and run accident, having an experienced lawyer by your side makes all the difference. Joe Stephens has spent over 40 years handling complex personal injury and auto accident claims across Texas. He is Double Board Certified, a distinction held by only 10 attorneys statewide, and his reputation is recognized by insurers and opposing counsel.
Joe has taken cases to trial and even to the Texas Supreme Court. His background shows not only legal skill but also the determination to fight for clients at every level. He is available at your convenience with offices in Houston, Katy, and Marshall.
What Joe Offers
Building on this foundation of experience, Joe provides client-focused representation on a no-win, no-fee basis, so you don’t pay unless he wins your case. Every client works directly with him, ensuring personal attention throughout the process. Known as both a tough negotiator and a skilled trial lawyer, he has secured meaningful results for Texans statewide.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Hit and Run Accident?
A Texas hit and run accident can leave victims facing different kinds of losses, many of which are recoverable.Â
- Economic damages: medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost wages, and vehicle repairs
- Non-economic damages: pain and suffering, mental anguish, and reduced quality of life
- Punitive damages: rare, but possible when a driver’s conduct is especially reckless, such as fleeing after causing a serious crash
Joe Stephens carefully calculates financial and personal losses, using records and expert testimony to show the full impact of the crash and fight for the compensation his clients deserve.
Frequently Asked Questions About Texas Hit and Run Claims
Will Filing a UM Claim Raise My Insurance Premiums?
Filing a UM claim may or may not raise your premiums, since the decision depends on your insurance company and your insurance history. However, it is less likely to result in a rate increase than if you were at fault for the accident. Joe Stephens can review your policy and explain what to expect before you file.
What if I Don’t have UM/UIM on My Policy?
If you rejected UM/UIM coverage, recovery options may be limited. PIP, collision, or health insurance may help, but they rarely cover everything. Joe Stephens can review your policy and explain every option available.
Can I Still Sue if the Driver Is Eventually Found?
Yes. If police later identify the driver, you can pursue a claim against their insurance or sue them directly. If they lack coverage, your UM/UIM policy may still apply.
How Long Do I Have To File a Claim in Texas?
Most personal injury claims, including those from hit and run crashes, must be filed within two years. Acting quickly is important to preserve evidence and protect your rights. Contact Joe Stephens right away to ensure your claim is filed on time.
Free Case Review for Hit and Run Victims in Houston Area
If you were involved in a hit and run, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone. Even when the driver is never identified, insurance and other recovery options may be available.
Joe Stephens is here to guide you through the process and protect your rights. With offices in Houston, Katy, and Marshall, he makes legal help convenient across Texas.Â
Contact The Stephens Law Firm at 281-201-0035 or through the online form to arrange your free case review.
