The complexity of a car crash can vary widely depending on how the collision happened. Sometimes, the incident can be minor and cause little to no damage. In these situations, the involved drivers can exchange information before leaving the scene and then speak to their insurers or other parties to sort out any issues.
Other times, the circumstances could impose different responsibilities on the driver involved in the collision, especially if it caused injuries or fatalities. In these instances, the parties may need to stop and provide aid when they can. It could be a punishable offense if they immediately leave the scene right after the crash.
Understanding the responsibilities
According to Texas law, drivers involved in collisions must stop and perform the following duties:
- Park the vehicle as close to the scene as possible
- If it is impossible to park somewhere nearby, stop at a safe distance and return to the scene to provide aid
- Check if anybody at the scene has an injury and call for emergency services
- Stay at the scene and help with any procedures conducted by present authorities
If a driver fails to comply, they could face felony charges based on the severity of the collision, including any injuries, deaths, and property damage. These crimes can result in equally severe penalties, such as imprisonment, up to $5,000 in fines or both.
Knowing the legal implications of what happened at the scene
The aftermath of a motor vehicle accident can be confusing and overwhelming, especially for injured victims. Still, knowing the legal effects of the events before, during and after the collision could be vital. If an involved driver decides to leave immediately after the crash, it can be an important detail later, especially when the victims decide to pursue compensation.