Everyone at some point has been in a situation where they’ve panicked and just left a situation. While this isn’t usually an issue in social settings, the repercussions of these actions are very different when a person driving a vehicle is involved.
Texas takes hit-and-run incidents seriously, and the punishments for a hit-and-run accident can be quite severe.
So, if you find yourself in a situation that involves a hit and run and subsequent arrest, here’s everything you need to know about the charges and why getting a bail bond is in your best interest.
What is a Hit and Run Accident?
A hit and run is a crime where a person in a vehicle flees an accident scene that involves property damage, injury, or death. These are serious criminal charges that are often lumped together with other charges that include:
- Driving without insurance
- Driving on a suspended license
- DWI/DUI
- Driving a stolen vehicle
What Are the Consequences of a Hit and Run?
As with all crimes, the penalty a person faces for leaving the scene of an accident depends on the severity of the property damage, the severity of injuries, and if anyone involved died.
Failing to stop after an accident where no one was injured or failing to stop after hitting an unmanned vehicle can result in either a Class B or Class C misdemeanor (depending on if the damage to fixtures/property is above or below $200).
While a misdemeanor may not seem too severe, fleeing the scene of an injury or fatal accident can result in the following penalties:
- Third-degree felony if the accident involved serious bodily injury (2-10 years in state prison)
- Second-degree felony if the accident resulted in death (2-20 years in state prison)
- County jail felony if serious injury or death did not occur (180 days – 2 years imprisonment)
Should You Get a Bail Bond if You’re Arrested for a Hit and Run Accident?
If you’ve been arrested for a hit and run and been granted bail by the courts, you should always apply for a bail bond.
A Fort Worth bail bond from Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds can get you out of jail much faster than waiting on your preliminary hearing.
With the extra time out of a jail cell, you can make several moves toward working with your defense team to help build the best care possible during your hearings.
Even if you know that you may be going to prison for the long term, getting a bail bond can help you wrap up all of the loose ends that you don’t want left undone while you’re away.
From informing your employer of your situation to helping get your family prepared for your time away, a bail bond can help you out in this difficult time of your life.
Get Out of Jail Today, With Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds
If you’ve been arrested for a hit and run or any other crime and are eligible for bail, apply for a bail bond today, with Big Bubba’s Bail Bonds.
We are Fort Worth’s most trusted bondsmen and are available to help get you out of jail 24/7. Contact us today to learn more about our services or start your bail bond application.
