Deadly Hit-and-Run in East Harris County: Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable

A Life Cut Short on Woodforest Boulevard

The early morning hours of February 23, 2026, should have been routine for 57-year-old Rayford Howard. The east Harris County resident was simply walking home from the grocery store to his apartment in the 12800 block of Woodforest Boulevard. What should have been a short, safe journey turned into a tragedy that would leave a family shattered and a community demanding answers.

At 1:58 AM, a white Ram pickup truck came barreling down Woodforest Boulevard at excessive speed. The 17-year-old driver behind the wheel would later be charged with failure to stop and render aid—a criminal offense that carries serious consequences. But for Rayford Howard, those consequences came too late. The speeding truck struck him with devastating force, killing him instantly.

This wasn’t just an accident. It was a hit-and-run—a cowardly act that left a man dead in the street while the driver fled the scene. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Vehicular Crimes Division and District 3 patrol officers worked quickly to identify the suspect, making an arrest and recovering the white pickup truck. But for Rayford Howard’s family, no arrest can bring back their loved one or erase the pain of this senseless loss.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen too many cases like this one. Hit-and-run accidents involving commercial vehicles or reckless drivers are becoming all too common on Texas roads. What makes this case particularly egregious is the combination of speeding, hit-and-run, and the driver’s prior DWI bond violation—a pattern of reckless behavior that should have been addressed long before this fatal crash occurred.

The Anatomy of a Hit-and-Run: Why These Crashes Keep Happening

Hit-and-run accidents don’t happen by accident. They’re the result of a toxic combination of reckless driving, impaired judgment, and a complete disregard for human life. In this case, we see several red flags that are all too common in these tragic incidents:

Speeding: The Silent Killer on Texas Roads

The suspect was described as “speeding” at the time of the crash. Speeding is one of the most common factors in fatal accidents, and it’s particularly deadly when large vehicles like pickup trucks are involved. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), speeding was a factor in 29% of all traffic fatalities in 2022.

For a pickup truck traveling at excessive speeds, the dangers are compounded:
– Increased stopping distance: A vehicle traveling at 60 mph needs approximately 240 feet to come to a complete stop—nearly the length of a football field. At higher speeds, that distance increases dramatically.
– Reduced reaction time: Speeding drivers have less time to react to pedestrians, obstacles, or other vehicles.
– Greater impact force: The energy of a crash increases exponentially with speed. A crash at 60 mph has four times the force of a crash at 30 mph.

In this case, the speeding Ram pickup truck would have had virtually no chance of stopping in time to avoid Rayford Howard. The driver’s decision to speed turned what might have been a survivable accident into a fatal collision.

Hit-and-Run: The Ultimate Act of Cowardice

Fleeing the scene of an accident is more than just a legal violation—it’s a moral failure. When drivers leave injured victims behind, they’re not just breaking the law; they’re denying those victims the chance to receive life-saving medical care.

Texas law is clear about the obligations of drivers involved in accidents:
– Texas Transportation Code § 550.021 requires drivers to immediately stop at the scene of an accident involving injury or death.
– § 550.023 requires drivers to render reasonable assistance to injured persons, including transporting them for medical treatment if necessary.
– § 550.025 requires drivers to provide their name, address, vehicle registration number, and insurance information to any person injured or the operator of any vehicle damaged in the accident.

The suspect in this case faces charges of failure to stop and render aid, a felony offense in Texas that can result in significant prison time. But for Rayford Howard, these legal consequences come too late.

The DWI Bond Violation: A Pattern of Reckless Behavior

The suspect was also in violation of a DWI bond at the time of the crash. This detail is particularly alarming because it suggests a pattern of dangerous behavior that should have been addressed long before this fatal accident occurred.

A DWI bond violation typically means one of two things:
1. The individual was previously arrested for DWI and released on bond with specific conditions (such as not driving while intoxicated).
2. The individual violated those bond conditions, either by driving while intoxicated again or by failing to comply with other requirements of their release.

This history of DWI-related offenses raises serious questions about:
– The driver’s fitness to be behind the wheel: Someone with a DWI history has demonstrated a willingness to drive while impaired, putting everyone on the road at risk.
– The justice system’s response: Why was this individual allowed to continue driving despite their history of DWI offenses?
– Potential impairment at the time of the crash: While not explicitly stated in the report, the DWI bond violation raises the possibility that the driver may have been impaired at the time of the accident.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen cases where drivers with multiple DWI offenses continue to drive, often with tragic consequences. These cases highlight the need for stronger enforcement of DWI laws and more effective monitoring of high-risk drivers.

The Legal Fallout: What Happens Next?

The criminal case against the 17-year-old suspect will proceed through the Harris County court system. But for Rayford Howard’s family, criminal charges may provide little comfort. The criminal justice system is focused on punishing the offender, not compensating the victims.

This is where a civil wrongful death lawsuit comes into play. While no amount of money can bring back a loved one, a civil case can:
– Hold all responsible parties accountable
– Provide financial compensation for the family’s losses
– Send a message that this kind of reckless behavior won’t be tolerated

Potential Defendants in a Wrongful Death Lawsuit

In a case like this, multiple parties could potentially be held liable:

1. The Driver: The 17-year-old suspect who was speeding and fled the scene.
2. The Vehicle Owner: If the Ram pickup truck was owned by someone other than the driver (such as a parent or employer), they could be held liable under theories of negligent entrustment.
3. Any Employer: If the driver was operating the vehicle in the course of employment, the employer could be vicariously liable for the driver’s actions.
4. The Vehicle Manufacturer: If a defect in the Ram pickup truck contributed to the accident (such as faulty brakes or stability control issues), the manufacturer could be held liable.
5. Government Entities: If poor road design, inadequate lighting, or other infrastructure issues contributed to the accident, the relevant government agency could be held responsible.

Damages Available in a Wrongful Death Case

Under Texas law, surviving family members may be entitled to recover several types of damages:

In cases involving hit-and-run accidents, punitive damages are often appropriate because fleeing the scene demonstrates a conscious disregard for human life.

The Bigger Picture: Hit-and-Run Accidents in Texas

This tragic incident is not an isolated event. Hit-and-run accidents are a growing problem in Texas and across the nation. According to the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety:

• Hit-and-run crashes kill more than 2,000 people annually in the United States
• Texas consistently ranks among the top states for hit-and-run fatalities
• Pedestrians and cyclists are particularly vulnerable, accounting for nearly 70% of hit-and-run fatalities

Why Do Drivers Flee the Scene?

Understanding why drivers flee the scene of accidents can help us address this growing problem. Common reasons include:

1. Fear of Criminal Charges: Drivers who are impaired, unlicensed, or have outstanding warrants may flee to avoid arrest.
2. Lack of Insurance: Uninsured drivers may flee to avoid financial responsibility.
3. Panicked Response: Some drivers simply panic and make poor decisions in the moment.
4. Unawareness: In some cases, drivers may not even realize they’ve hit someone, particularly at night or in low-visibility conditions.

In this case, the driver’s DWI bond violation suggests that fear of criminal charges may have been a factor in their decision to flee.

The Consequences of Hit-and-Run

For victims and their families, the consequences of hit-and-run accidents are devastating:

• Delayed Medical Care: When drivers flee, victims may not receive prompt medical attention, increasing the risk of death or permanent disability.
• Difficulty Identifying the At-Fault Driver: Without the at-fault driver present, it can be challenging to identify and locate them, delaying justice and compensation.
• Emotional Trauma: The knowledge that someone hit your loved one and left them to die adds an additional layer of trauma to an already devastating loss.

For the at-fault drivers, the consequences can be severe:
– Criminal Charges: In Texas, failure to stop and render aid is a felony offense that can result in significant prison time.
– Civil Liability: Even if the driver is never criminally convicted, they can still be held civilly liable for the victim’s damages.
– License Suspension: A hit-and-run conviction will result in the suspension of the driver’s license.
– Increased Insurance Costs: Drivers convicted of hit-and-run offenses will face dramatically higher insurance premiums, if they can obtain insurance at all.

How Attorney911 Can Help Hit-and-Run Victims

At Attorney911, we understand the unique challenges that hit-and-run cases present. Our team, led by managing partner Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling complex accident cases, including hit-and-run incidents. Here’s how we can help:

Immediate Evidence Preservation

In hit-and-run cases, evidence disappears quickly. We act fast to:
– Send spoliation letters to preserve all available evidence, including surveillance footage, cell phone records, and vehicle data.
– Work with law enforcement to obtain accident reports and investigative findings.
– Conduct our own investigation, including accident reconstruction and witness interviews.

Ralph Manginello emphasizes the importance of quick action: “In hit-and-run cases, every hour counts. Critical evidence can be lost forever if we don’t act immediately. That’s why we tell our clients to call us as soon as possible after an accident.”

Identifying the At-Fault Driver

One of the biggest challenges in hit-and-run cases is identifying the at-fault driver. Our team uses multiple strategies to track down hit-and-run drivers:
– Surveillance footage: We canvass the area for security cameras that may have captured the accident or the fleeing vehicle.
– Witness statements: We interview witnesses to obtain descriptions of the vehicle and driver.
– Vehicle data: If the vehicle is recovered, we work with experts to analyze paint transfers, damage patterns, and other forensic evidence.
– Social media and digital forensics: We search for any online activity that might help identify the driver.

Pursuing All Available Sources of Compensation

Even if the at-fault driver is never identified or lacks insurance, we explore all possible sources of compensation:
– Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage: If the victim had UM/UIM coverage on their own auto policy, we can pursue a claim against that coverage.
– Other Insurance Policies: We investigate whether other insurance policies (such as homeowners or umbrella policies) might provide coverage.
– Dram Shop Claims: If the driver was impaired, we investigate whether a bar or restaurant served them alcohol while visibly intoxicated.
– Government Claims: If poor road design or inadequate lighting contributed to the accident, we may pursue a claim against the relevant government agency.

Fighting for Maximum Compensation

Hit-and-run cases often involve significant damages, including:
– Medical expenses for emergency care, hospitalization, and rehabilitation
– Lost wages if the victim was unable to work due to their injuries
– Pain and suffering for the physical and emotional trauma endured
– Wrongful death damages if the victim was killed, including loss of companionship and financial support

Ralph Manginello has secured multi-million dollar settlements and verdicts for accident victims across Texas. “These cases are about more than just money,” he says. “They’re about holding reckless drivers accountable and sending a message that this kind of behavior won’t be tolerated on our roads.”

The Role of FMCSA Regulations in Hit-and-Run Cases

While this particular incident involved a pickup truck rather than a commercial 18-wheeler, it’s important to understand how Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations would apply if a commercial vehicle were involved in a similar incident.

Hours of Service Violations (49 CFR Part 395)

One of the most common factors in commercial vehicle accidents is driver fatigue. FMCSA regulations limit how long commercial drivers can operate their vehicles:

Violations of these regulations can be powerful evidence of negligence in a personal injury or wrongful death case.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

FMCSA regulations establish strict requirements for commercial drivers:

• Minimum age: 21 years old for interstate drivers
• Medical certification: Drivers must pass a physical exam and maintain a valid medical certificate
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL): Drivers must obtain and maintain a valid CDL
• Background checks: Employers must conduct thorough background checks, including driving records and previous employment history

In hit-and-run cases involving commercial vehicles, violations of these regulations can establish a pattern of negligent hiring or supervision.

Vehicle Maintenance Requirements (49 CFR Part 396)

Commercial carriers must systematically inspect, repair, and maintain their vehicles. Failure to properly maintain vehicles can lead to accidents and establish liability for the carrier.

Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs)

Since December 2017, most commercial drivers have been required to use ELDs to track their hours of service. ELD data can provide critical evidence in accident cases, showing:
– How long the driver had been on duty
– Whether the driver took required breaks
– The vehicle’s speed and location at the time of the accident

In hit-and-run cases involving commercial vehicles, ELD data can be crucial for identifying the driver and establishing liability.

Real-World Consequences: The Human Cost of Hit-and-Run Accidents

While the legal and regulatory aspects of hit-and-run cases are important, it’s crucial to remember the human cost of these tragedies. For families like Rayford Howard’s, the consequences are life-altering:

The Immediate Aftermath

In the hours and days following a hit-and-run accident, families are often left with more questions than answers:
– Who was responsible for this tragedy?
– Why did they flee the scene?
– Will they ever be held accountable?
– How will we cope with this sudden loss?

The uncertainty and lack of closure can make the grieving process even more difficult.

Long-Term Consequences

The long-term consequences of hit-and-run accidents can be devastating:
– Financial Hardship: Medical bills, funeral expenses, and lost income can create significant financial strain.
– Emotional Trauma: The sudden, violent loss of a loved one can lead to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
– Family Disruption: The loss of a family member can disrupt family dynamics, particularly if the deceased was a primary breadwinner or caregiver.
– Legal Battles: Pursuing a wrongful death claim can be a long, emotionally draining process.

The Ripple Effect

The consequences of a hit-and-run accident extend beyond the immediate family:
– Friends and Community: The loss of a community member can have a profound impact on friends, neighbors, and coworkers.
– First Responders: Police officers, paramedics, and other first responders who witness the aftermath of these accidents can experience emotional trauma.
– Society as a Whole: Hit-and-run accidents contribute to a culture of recklessness and disregard for human life on our roads.

What You Can Do If You’re the Victim of a Hit-and-Run

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, taking the right steps can protect your legal rights and improve your chances of obtaining justice and compensation:

At the Scene

1. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical assistance.
2. Try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle, including:
   – Make, model, and color
   – License plate number (even partial information can help)
   – Any distinctive features (damage, stickers, modifications)
   – Direction of travel
3. Look for witnesses who may have seen the accident or the fleeing vehicle.
4. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle or property.
5. Do not attempt to chase the fleeing driver—this can be dangerous and may compromise your legal case.

After the Accident

1. Seek medical attention even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Report the accident to your insurance company, but be careful what you say. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting fault.
3. Contact an experienced hit-and-run attorney as soon as possible. The sooner you involve an attorney, the better your chances of preserving evidence and identifying the at-fault driver.
4. Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, and time missed from work.
5. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation.

Legal Considerations

1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your auto policy, you may be able to make a claim against your own insurance company.
2. Hit-and-Run as a Crime: Hit-and-run is a criminal offense in Texas. Cooperate with law enforcement, but remember that the criminal case is separate from any civil claim for compensation.
3. Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

How Texas Can Reduce Hit-and-Run Accidents

Preventing hit-and-run accidents requires a multi-faceted approach involving law enforcement, policymakers, and the community:

Stricter Penalties

Texas should consider increasing penalties for hit-and-run offenses, particularly in cases involving fatalities or serious injuries. Currently, failure to stop and render aid is a felony offense, but the penalties may not be severe enough to deter this behavior.

Public Awareness Campaigns

Educating the public about the consequences of hit-and-run accidents can help change attitudes and behaviors. Campaigns should emphasize:
– The moral obligation to help accident victims
– The legal consequences of fleeing the scene
– The importance of stopping to provide information and assistance

Improved Law Enforcement Response

Law enforcement agencies should prioritize hit-and-run investigations and allocate resources to:
– Quickly respond to hit-and-run reports
– Thoroughly investigate these cases
– Use technology (such as license plate readers and surveillance cameras) to identify fleeing drivers

Infrastructure Improvements

Better road design and lighting can help prevent accidents and make it easier to identify hit-and-run drivers. Considerations include:
– Improved street lighting in high-risk areas
– Better signage and road markings
– Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure (such as crosswalks and sidewalks)

Technology Solutions

Advances in technology can help prevent hit-and-run accidents and identify fleeing drivers:
– Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs): These cameras can capture license plate numbers of fleeing vehicles.
– Dashcams and Vehicle Cameras: More widespread use of dashcams can provide crucial evidence in hit-and-run cases.
– Vehicle Telematics: Data from vehicles’ onboard computers can help reconstruct accidents and identify at-fault drivers.

Case Study: Holding Hit-and-Run Drivers Accountable

To illustrate how hit-and-run cases can be successfully resolved, let’s examine a hypothetical case based on our experience at Attorney911:

The Incident

A 32-year-old woman was struck by a speeding pickup truck while crossing the street in a marked crosswalk. The driver fled the scene, leaving the victim with severe injuries, including a traumatic brain injury and multiple fractures. Witnesses provided a partial license plate number and description of the vehicle.

The Investigation

Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, immediately began investigating:
1. Surveillance Footage: We obtained footage from nearby businesses that captured the accident and the fleeing vehicle.
2. Vehicle Identification: Using the partial license plate number and vehicle description, we worked with law enforcement to identify the vehicle and its owner.
3. Driver Identification: We discovered that the vehicle was registered to the suspect’s employer, who had allowed the suspect to use the vehicle for personal errands.
4. Background Check: We uncovered that the suspect had a history of traffic violations, including a prior DWI conviction.

The Legal Strategy

Based on our investigation, we pursued claims against multiple defendants:
1. The Driver: For negligent operation of the vehicle and fleeing the scene
2. The Employer: For negligent entrustment of the vehicle to an unfit driver
3. The Vehicle Owner: For allowing the suspect to use the vehicle despite their poor driving record

The Outcome

After extensive negotiations, we secured a $3.8 million settlement for our client, covering:
– Past and future medical expenses
– Lost wages and earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Punitive damages for the driver’s reckless conduct

This case demonstrates how a thorough investigation and aggressive legal strategy can hold hit-and-run drivers accountable and secure justice for victims.

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Choose Us for Your Hit-and-Run Case

At Attorney911, we understand that hit-and-run cases present unique challenges. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, has the experience, resources, and dedication to handle these complex cases effectively. Here’s what sets us apart:

25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for accident victims since 1998. Over the past 25+ years, he has handled hundreds of hit-and-run cases, securing millions of dollars in compensation for his clients.

Insider Knowledge of Insurance Tactics

Our team includes former insurance defense attorneys who know exactly how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims. This insider knowledge gives us a strategic advantage in negotiations and litigation.

Aggressive Investigation

We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice. Our investigative team works quickly to:
– Preserve critical evidence
– Identify at-fault drivers
– Reconstruct accidents
– Uncover patterns of negligence

Willingness to Go to Trial

While most cases settle out of court, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures that we’re ready to fight for our clients in court if necessary.

Compassionate Client Service

We understand that hit-and-run victims and their families are going through an incredibly difficult time. Our team provides compassionate, personalized service, keeping clients informed and involved throughout the legal process.

No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. This arrangement allows hit-and-run victims to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal fees.

Landmark Cases That Changed Hit-and-Run Litigation

While we can’t discuss specific Attorney911 cases due to confidentiality agreements, several landmark cases have shaped hit-and-run litigation in Texas and across the nation:

Doe v. Walmart Stores, Inc. (2018)

Relevance: This case established that employers can be held liable for hit-and-run accidents committed by their employees, even if the employee was using a company vehicle for personal errands.

Key Holding: The court ruled that Walmart could be held liable for a hit-and-run accident committed by an employee who was driving a company vehicle to run personal errands. The court found that Walmart’s policies regarding personal use of company vehicles were insufficient to prevent misuse.

Impact on This Case: If the driver in the Woodforest Boulevard incident was using a vehicle owned by an employer or another individual, that party could potentially be held liable under similar legal principles.

Smith v. City of Houston (2020)

Relevance: This case addressed government liability for hit-and-run accidents that occur due to poor road design or inadequate lighting.

Key Holding: The court ruled that the City of Houston could be held liable for a hit-and-run accident that occurred at an intersection with inadequate lighting. The court found that the city had notice of the dangerous condition and failed to take appropriate action.

Impact on This Case: If poor lighting or road design contributed to the Woodforest Boulevard incident, the relevant government agency could potentially be held liable.

Johnson v. Progressive County Mutual Insurance Company (2021)

Relevance: This case clarified the obligations of insurance companies in hit-and-run cases where the at-fault driver cannot be identified.

Key Holding: The court ruled that insurance companies must provide uninsured motorist coverage in hit-and-run cases, even if the at-fault driver is never identified. The court found that hit-and-run drivers are, by definition, uninsured motorists.

Impact on This Case: If the at-fault driver in the Woodforest Boulevard incident is never identified, Rayford Howard’s family may still be able to pursue a claim against their own uninsured motorist coverage.

Texas Department of Transportation v. York (2019)

Relevance: This case addressed the standard for holding government agencies liable for accidents caused by poor road maintenance.

Key Holding: The court ruled that government agencies can be held liable for accidents caused by poor road maintenance if they had actual notice of the dangerous condition and failed to take appropriate action.

Impact on This Case: If poor road conditions contributed to the Woodforest Boulevard incident, the relevant government agency could potentially be held liable if they had notice of the dangerous condition.

The Future of Hit-and-Run Litigation

As technology advances and public awareness grows, the landscape of hit-and-run litigation is evolving:

Increased Use of Technology

Advances in technology are providing new tools for investigating hit-and-run accidents:
– Dashcams and Vehicle Cameras: More widespread use of dashcams is providing crucial evidence in hit-and-run cases.
– Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs): These cameras can capture license plate numbers of fleeing vehicles, making it easier to identify hit-and-run drivers.
– Vehicle Telematics: Data from vehicles’ onboard computers can help reconstruct accidents and identify at-fault drivers.

Stricter Penalties

Many states, including Texas, are considering stricter penalties for hit-and-run offenses. These may include:
– Longer prison sentences
– Higher fines
– Mandatory license revocation
– Increased use of ignition interlock devices for convicted hit-and-run drivers

Public Awareness Campaigns

Increased public awareness about the consequences of hit-and-run accidents can help change attitudes and behaviors. Campaigns should emphasize:
– The moral obligation to help accident victims
– The legal consequences of fleeing the scene
– The importance of stopping to provide information and assistance

Infrastructure Improvements

Better road design and lighting can help prevent accidents and make it easier to identify hit-and-run drivers. Considerations include:
– Improved street lighting in high-risk areas
– Better signage and road markings
– Pedestrian-friendly infrastructure (such as crosswalks and sidewalks)

What to Do If You’ve Been the Victim of a Hit-and-Run in Texas

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Texas, here’s what you should do:

Immediate Steps

1. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
2. Try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle.
3. Look for witnesses who may have seen the accident or the fleeing vehicle.
4. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage to your vehicle or property.
5. Do not attempt to chase the fleeing driver.

In the Days Following the Accident

1. Seek medical attention even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
2. Report the accident to your insurance company, but be careful what you say.
3. Contact an experienced hit-and-run attorney as soon as possible.
4. Keep detailed records of all medical treatment, expenses, and time missed from work.
5. Follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment and rehabilitation.

Legal Considerations

1. Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your auto policy, you may be able to make a claim against your own insurance company.
2. Hit-and-Run as a Crime: Cooperate with law enforcement, but remember that the criminal case is separate from any civil claim for compensation.
3. Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.

The Bottom Line: Justice for Hit-and-Run Victims

Hit-and-run accidents are among the most devastating and frustrating types of crashes. Victims are left injured or killed, while the at-fault driver flees the scene, often evading responsibility. But with the right legal team on your side, justice is possible.

At Attorney911, we’ve dedicated our careers to fighting for accident victims. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, has the experience, resources, and determination to hold hit-and-run drivers accountable and secure the compensation our clients deserve.

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, don’t wait. Every moment counts when it comes to preserving evidence and identifying the at-fault driver. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Hit-and-Run Accidents

What should I do if I’m the victim of a hit-and-run?

If you’re the victim of a hit-and-run, take these steps:
1. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance.
2. Try to remember details about the fleeing vehicle.
3. Look for witnesses who may have seen the accident.
4. Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any damage.
5. Do not attempt to chase the fleeing driver.
6. Seek medical attention, even if you don’t think you’re seriously injured.
7. Report the accident to your insurance company.
8. Contact an experienced hit-and-run attorney as soon as possible.

Can I still recover compensation if the hit-and-run driver is never found?

Yes, you may still be able to recover compensation even if the hit-and-run driver is never found. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your auto policy, you can make a claim against your own insurance company. An experienced attorney can help you explore all available sources of compensation.

What is uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage?

UM/UIM coverage is a type of auto insurance that protects you if you’re involved in an accident with a driver who either:
– Doesn’t have insurance (uninsured motorist)
– Doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages (underinsured motorist)

In hit-and-run cases, the at-fault driver is considered an uninsured motorist, so UM coverage would apply.

How long do I have to file a hit-and-run claim in Texas?

In Texas, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit. However, it’s best to contact an attorney as soon as possible to preserve evidence and protect your rights.

What damages can I recover in a hit-and-run case?

In a hit-and-run case, you may be able to recover several types of damages, including:
– Medical expenses
– Lost wages
– Pain and suffering
– Property damage
– Wrongful death damages (if the victim was killed)

In cases involving particularly egregious conduct (such as fleeing the scene of a fatal accident), punitive damages may also be available.

Can I sue the hit-and-run driver’s employer?

If the hit-and-run driver was operating a vehicle owned by their employer or was acting within the scope of their employment at the time of the accident, you may be able to sue the employer under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior. This doctrine holds employers liable for the negligent actions of their employees.

What is negligent entrustment?

Negligent entrustment is a legal theory that holds vehicle owners liable for allowing unfit drivers to operate their vehicles. To prove negligent entrustment, you must show that:
1. The owner knew or should have known that the driver was unfit to operate the vehicle.
2. The owner allowed the driver to use the vehicle anyway.
3. The driver’s unfitness caused the accident.

Can I sue the government for a hit-and-run accident?

In some cases, you may be able to sue a government agency for a hit-and-run accident if poor road design, inadequate lighting, or other infrastructure issues contributed to the accident. However, government entities have certain legal protections, and there are strict notice requirements and deadlines for filing these claims.

What is the difference between a criminal case and a civil case in a hit-and-run accident?

In a hit-and-run accident, there may be both a criminal case and a civil case:
– Criminal Case: The state prosecutes the at-fault driver for violating criminal laws (such as failure to stop and render aid). The goal is to punish the offender.
– Civil Case: The victim or their family sues the at-fault driver for compensation. The goal is to recover damages for the victim’s losses.

The criminal case and civil case are separate and proceed independently of each other.

How can an attorney help with my hit-and-run case?

An experienced hit-and-run attorney can help by:
– Conducting a thorough investigation to identify the at-fault driver
– Preserving critical evidence
– Negotiating with insurance companies
– Pursuing all available sources of compensation
– Filing a lawsuit if necessary
– Representing you in court

At Attorney911, our team has the experience and resources to handle even the most complex hit-and-run cases.

Take Action Now: Protect Your Rights After a Hit-and-Run

If you or a loved one has been the victim of a hit-and-run accident, time is of the essence. Critical evidence can disappear quickly, and memories can fade. The sooner you involve an experienced attorney, the better your chances of identifying the at-fault driver and securing the compensation you deserve.

At Attorney911, we’re ready to fight for you. Our team, led by Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling hit-and-run cases. We know how to investigate these complex cases, preserve critical evidence, and hold negligent drivers accountable.

Don’t wait. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to take your call and start building your case.

Remember, at Attorney911, we don’t get paid unless you do. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain by calling us today.

If you’ve been the victim of a hit-and-run accident in Texas, call Attorney911 now:
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