Reporting a Hutto Car Accident to the Police
When you are involved in a car accident, it is important that you follow certain protocols. In addition to seeking medical attention and exchanging insurance information with the other driver, state laws require that individuals report certain car accidents to the police.
Failing to do this can make it more difficult to prove negligence in a personal injury lawsuit. If you have questions about reporting a Hutto car accident to the police, it is crucial to contact a knowledgeable attorney immediately.
State Law Requires Reporting of Certain Accidents
The state imposes mandatory police reporting requirements for certain types of Hutto car crashes. Whether a driver is required to report an accident to the police will depend on various factors, such as the extent of damage or injuries.
According to Texas Transportation Code § 550.022 and Texas Transportation Code § 550.023, a driver involved in an accident must stop at the scene. If the accident resulted in injury, death, or vehicle damage, the rules require that the drivers exchange insurance information and render any necessary medical aid.
In addition, Texas Transportation Code § 550.026 requires that drivers involved in a vehicle crash that led to injuries, death, or vehicle damage immediately contact police or law enforcement about the collision if any driver is unable to operate their vehicle normally and safely after the accident.
Failing to report an accident as required by state law can lead to criminal charges. A court can impose penalties, which can include fines and a suspension of a person’s driver’s license. In certain cases, such as an accident resulting in fatalities or catastrophic damage, failing to report an accident may result in jail time.
Common Injuries From Car Accidents
Before reporting an auto accident to law enforcement in Hutto, those involved should seek immediate medical treatment for any injuries. Car accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries and even fatalities. Examples of injuries sustained in a car accident include:
- Cuts, bruises, abrasions, or burns
- Broken or fractured bones
- Traumatic brain injuries, such as concussions
- Neck injuries, such as whiplash
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal organ injuries
- Sprained or torn ligaments
- Soft tissue injuries
Many of these injuries can require extensive physical therapy to ensure a full recovery. In some cases, the injury can have a life-changing, permanent impact on the injured person’s ability to perform basic daily activities.
For those who received medical treatment after a Hutto car accident, it is important to keep all relevant reports, documentation, and receipts. Crash victims can pursue a legal claim to recover compensation for their medical expenses and hospital bills.
Obtaining a Police Report Can Help Prove Negligence
After contacting Hutto law enforcement to report a car accident, Texas Transportation Code § 550.062 requires the investigating officer to make a written report if a crash resulted in injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000.
The officer must file the report within 10 days of the collision. Aside from driver information, a police report gives an overview of details such as the time and location of the accident.
Obtaining a police report can provide helpful evidence to prove that the at-fault party was negligent. To prove negligence, the plaintiff must show that the responsible party breached a reasonable duty of care owed to other drivers.
If a driver was cited for an accident, the police report can help prove liability. For example, a police report can show that a driver was cited for speeding, driving while intoxicated, or driving recklessly. In addition, the police report can provide helpful information about witnesses, weather, or road conditions.
Speak With a Hutto Attorney About Reporting Car Crashes to Police
The aftermath of a serious car accident can be a stressful time. If you have questions or concerns about reporting a Hutto car accident to the police, contact Felix Gonzalez Law as soon as possible.
Our firm’s knowledgeable lawyers can help guide you through the process of pursuing compensation following a crash. We can also work on your behalf to deal with insurance companies and negotiate a settlement. Call today to schedule a consultation.
