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What Is a Hit and Run DWI?
A hit and run happens when a person is involved in an accident and leaves the scene without stopping to provide the required information or help the injured. When the person who commits the hit and run is also intoxicated by drugs or alcohol, this is known as a hit and run DWI. In Texas, it is required by law to stop after an accident to exchange information, check on the well-being of others involved, and provide aid if needed. Failing to do so is a serious crime, and if alcohol or drugs are involved, the charges can escalate quickly. The state of Texas has strict laws against both driving while intoxicated and fleeing the scene of an accident. When these two offenses happen together, the legal consequences are far more severe than if either crime were committed on its own. Not only can the individual face charges for leaving the scene, but they can also be charged with a DWI, which will add to the penalties they face. The combination of these two crimes makes it vital for anyone involved to fully understand the possible outcomes.Legal Consequences of a Hit and Run in Texas
Leaving the scene of an accident is a serious offense in Texas. The penalties vary based on the severity of the accident and whether anyone was injured. Even in minor accidents, Texas law requires drivers to stop and exchange information. In cases where there are injuries or fatalities, drivers must also provide assistance to those who are hurt. Fleeing from such a scene can result in harsh legal consequences, including fines, jail time, and the suspension of the driver’s license.
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Legal Consequences of a DWI in Texas
Driving while intoxicated is a serious crime in Texas. The state has strict laws in place to prevent and punish drivers who choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs. A person can be charged with a DWI if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08 or higher or if they are impaired by any substance while driving. For first-time offenders, the penalties may include fines, community service, and mandatory alcohol education classes. However, repeat offenders and those with higher BAC levels will face more severe punishments, including longer jail sentences and higher fines. In Texas, the penalties for a DWI increase if certain factors are present. For example, if there is a child passenger in the vehicle or if the driver causes an accident while under the influence, the charges will be much more severe. In addition to legal penalties, a DWI conviction can lead to increased insurance rates, difficulty finding employment, and long-term damage to a person’s reputation.
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How a Hit and Run DWI Is Penalized in Texas
When a hit and run is combined with a DWI, the legal consequences are much more severe than for either crime on its own. In this situation, the person will be facing charges for both fleeing the scene of an accident and driving while intoxicated. These combined charges mean that the penalties will be more significant, and the legal process will be more complex. The exact penalties for a hit and run DWI in Texas depend on the circumstances of the accident, the level of intoxication, and whether anyone was injured or killed. For accidents involving only property damage, the penalties for a hit and run DWI are less severe than if there are injuries or fatalities. However, even in cases where no one is hurt, the driver can still face jail time, fines, and the loss of their driver’s license. If the accident causes serious injury or death, the driver could face felony charges, leading to years in prison and a permanent mark on their criminal record. These cases are taken very seriously in Texas, and the penalties reflect the seriousness of the crime. In addition to legal penalties, a person charged with a hit and run DWI may also face civil lawsuits from the victims involved in the accident. These lawsuits can result in additional financial burdens, including the payment of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. This means that the consequences of a hit and run DWI can extend beyond the courtroom, affecting a person’s financial future for years to come.Related Videos
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