Hit-and-Run Accidents in Houston: Your Legal Rights and What to Do Next

Houston has one of the highest rates of hit-and-run accidents in the country. If a driver fled after hitting you or your vehicle, you are not out of options — here is exactly what your rights are under Texas law.

How Common Are Hit-and-Run Crashes in Houston?

Houston police reported over 25,000 hit-and-run incidents in Harris County in 2025 — an average of nearly 70 per day. Many involve uninsured drivers, undocumented individuals, or drivers with outstanding warrants who flee to avoid consequences. Pedestrian and cyclist hit-and-run deaths have risen sharply, particularly on Westheimer, Bissonnet, and Navigation Boulevard.

What to Do Immediately After a Hit-and-Run

First: call 911. Even if the other vehicle is gone, a police report is essential. Try to note the fleeing vehicle’s make, color, partial license plate, and direction of travel. Photograph your vehicle, any debris, and your injuries. Ask any bystanders for their names and contact information. Check for nearby businesses or traffic cameras — surveillance footage can identify the at-fault driver.

Can You Still Recover Compensation If the Driver Is Not Found?

Yes. If you carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your Texas auto policy, it covers hit-and-run accidents even when the other driver is never identified. Texas does not require UM/UIM coverage, but it is highly recommended. If you do not have it, you may still have a claim if the hit-and-run occurred in a parking lot with faulty lighting, a poorly maintained road, or other contributing factors.

What If the Driver Is Later Identified?

In Texas, leaving the scene of an accident involving injury or death is a felony. If police identify the driver — which happens more often than you might think thanks to traffic cameras and witness tips — you can pursue a civil lawsuit for full damages. Criminal charges against the driver can also support your civil case.

Frequently Asked Questions