You are obligated to stop and take certain actions when involved in a motor vehicle that results in bodily injuries or death. Failure to do so can result in your arrest.

The penalties and definitions for the failure to stop and render aid, which is more commonly known as leaving the scene of an accident, are governed by Texas Transportation Code Section 550.021.

You must do the four following things at the scene of a crash:

• Immediately stop your car at the scene or as close to it as possible
• Return to the scene of the collision if your vehicle is stopped elsewhere
• Determine whether someone involved in the crash is injured and requires aid and
• Remain at the scene of the crash until law enforcement arrives.

You must also comply with the requirements of Section 550.023 which are as follows:

• Provide Identifying Information: The driver must give their name, address, vehicle registration number, and the name of their motor vehicle liability insurer to:
  • Any person who was injured in the accident.
  • The driver, occupant, or person attending another vehicle involved in the collision.
• Show Driver’s License Upon Request: If requested, and if available, the driver must show their driver’s license to the other parties involved in the accident. This step helps ensure that everyone has proper verification of identity and driving credentials.
• Render Reasonable Assistance to Injured Parties: The driver must provide reasonable assistance to any person injured in the accident.

The failure to remain at the scene and comply with the above steps can lead to criminal charges and the potential for jail time.

Note: These requirements only come into play when you are involved in a collision that is reasonably likely to result in an injury or death, which means you must stop and take action if you reasonably believe someone could be hurt, even if you are unsure if that is the case.

Does Failure to Stop and Render Aid Apply to Hitting an Unattended Vehicle?

No, these requirements only come into play when there is a reasonable chance that someone else was injured in the crash. You cannot be charged with failure to stop and render aid if you strike an unattended car. However, there are other obligations you must meet in that scenario under Texas Transportation Code Section 550.024 – Duty on Striking Unattended Vehicle.

In this scenario, you must attempt to locate the owner or driver of the unattended vehicle and notify them of the crash. Alternatively, you may leave a note to the owner attached to their vehicle with your name and address.

Talk to a Lawyer About Failure to Stop and Render Aid Charges

If you have been accused of leaving the scene of an accident, you are entitled to a vigorous defense. The right legal counsel can review the allegations against you and develop the strongest possible strategy on your behalf.

These cases are subjective, and there are often valid reasons why a driver might leave the scene of a crash or be slow to return. At Barton & Associates, Attorneys at Law, PLLC, we will review the circumstances and determine the right approach. Call today to learn more.