Legal Support for Hit and Run Victims in Galveston County
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident in Galveston County, Texas, you may be facing medical bills, vehicle damage, and uncertainty about how to recover compensation. At Bill T. Wells, our Galveston County motor vehicle accidents lawyer helps victims navigate the legal and insurance challenges that arise when the at-fault driver flees the scene. Our team has deep knowledge of Texas hit and run laws, including uninsured motorist (UM) coverage, and we act quickly to preserve evidence, identify liable parties, and protect your rights from the outset.
Why Choose Bill T. Wells?
At Bill T. Wells, we combine decades of legal experience with a strong commitment to helping hit and run victims in Galveston County. Our firm understands the local legal landscape and the complexities of pursuing compensation when the responsible driver cannot be located.
- Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law since 1990
- Over 30 years of experience in personal injury law
- “AV” Rated by Martindale-Hubbell for the highest level of legal ability and ethics
- Extensive experience with hit and run and uninsured motorist claims in Galveston County
- Proactive investigative strategies to help identify fleeing drivers
- Skilled negotiators who work to maximize UM/UIM insurance payouts
- Bilingual staff available to assist Spanish-speaking clients
- No upfront costs — we only get paid if we win your case
What Steps Should I Take After a Hit and Run in Galveston County?
Taking the right steps immediately after a hit and run accident can significantly affect your ability to recover compensation:
1. Call 911 – Report the accident to law enforcement. Texas law requires reporting crashes involving injury, death, or property damage exceeding $1,000. A police report is essential for insurance and legal claims.
2. Document the Scene – Take photos of your vehicle, the surrounding area, and any visible damage. Collect contact information from witnesses and note any details about the fleeing vehicle, such as make, model, color, or partial license plate.
3. Notify Your Insurance Company – Promptly report the accident to your insurer.
4. Contact a Local Attorney – An experienced Galveston County hit and run lawyer can help preserve evidence, guide you through the claims process, and begin building your case.
At Bill T. Wells, we assist clients with each of these steps to ensure their rights are protected from day one.
Does My Insurance Cover a Hit and Run Accident in Texas?
In many cases, yes, but it depends on your policy. In Texas, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is optional if you decline it in writing. If you have UM coverage, it may help pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and vehicle damage when the at-fault driver is unknown or uninsured.
However, Texas law imposes specific requirements. For property damage claims under UM coverage, the “physical contact” rule typically applies, meaning your vehicle must have made contact with the fleeing vehicle. If the other driver caused the crash without hitting your car (e.g., by swerving into your lane), your claim may be more complex.
Our attorneys are well-versed in these nuances. We review your policy, handle communications with your insurer, and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you’re entitled to under Texas law.
What If the Hit and Run Driver Is Never Found?
Even if the driver is never identified, you still have legal options. A knowledgeable attorney can help you build a strong case using available evidence, including:
- Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or traffic cameras
- Eyewitness statements
- Accident reconstruction reports
At Bill T. Wells, we coordinate with local law enforcement in Galveston County and manage all aspects of your uninsured motorist claim. These claims often involve strict deadlines and complex policy language, so having legal representation is critical to avoid delays or denials.
What Happens When I Contact Bill T. Wells?
When you reach out to our firm after a hit and run accident, we begin with a free consultation to learn about your case. We’ll ask about the accident, your injuries, and your insurance coverage. If we take your case, we’ll immediately begin:
- Investigating the accident
- Preserving and collecting evidence
- Communicating with witnesses and law enforcement
- Handling all insurance communications and filings
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you owe no legal fees unless we recover compensation for you. Our team keeps you informed throughout the process so you can focus on your recovery while we handle the legal work.
Because uninsured motorist claims are time-sensitive, we encourage you to contact us as soon as possible after the accident.
Talk to a Galveston County Hit and Run Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a hit and run accident, don’t wait to get legal help. Contact Bill T. Wells for a free consultation. We’ll explain your rights, review your insurance options, and fight to recover the compensation you deserve, even if the other driver is never found.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a hit and run a felony in Texas?
Yes, it can be. If the accident results in bodily injury or death, leaving the scene is a felony offense under Texas law, punishable incarceration. If the crash involves only property damage, the offense may be charged as a misdemeanor.
What if the hit and run driver is later identified but has no insurance?
If the driver is located but uninsured, you may still be eligible for compensation through your uninsured motorist coverage. Our attorneys can also evaluate whether a personal injury lawsuit against the individual is a viable option for recovery.
Can pedestrians or cyclists file a claim after a hit and run?
Yes. Pedestrians and cyclists injured in hit and run accidents may be able to recover compensation through their own uninsured motorist coverage or other legal avenues. We can help you understand your options and file the appropriate claims.