EPPD logs thousands of hit-and-run reports each year. Most involve parking-lot bumps, but a meaningful share are highway-speed crashes where the at-fault driver flees — often because they're uninsured, unlicensed, or driving an unregistered vehicle. Texas law treats fleeing the scene as a serious crime, but recovering damages comes down to your own insurance.
Texas law: leaving the scene
Under Texas Transportation Code §550.021–025, leaving the scene of any crash involving injury, death, or vehicle damage is a criminal offense — ranging from a Class C misdemeanor to a second-degree felony depending on severity. Fleeing with injuries can mean prison time and license revocation.
Report the hit-and-run immediately
- Call 911 from the scene
- Note every detail you can — make, model, color, partial plate, direction of travel
- Look for witnesses; their statements matter more in hit-and-run cases than in any other
- Photograph paint transfer, debris, and damage patterns
- File the report and get a case number — your insurer will need it
Which coverage pays?
- Collision coverage pays for vehicle damage regardless of whether the other driver is found, subject to your deductible
- Uninsured motorist property damage (UMPD) can also pay for vehicle damage, often with a lower deductible — but Texas requires the unknown vehicle to have physically contacted yours
- Uninsured motorist bodily injury (UMBI) pays for your medical costs and lost wages
- PIP and MedPay pay regardless of fault and can cover deductibles for medical bills
Why a police report is critical
Most Texas insurers will not pay a hit-and-run claim under UMBI without a police report filed within 24 hours. The report is also necessary if the at-fault driver is later identified and subrogation is pursued.
Parking-lot hit-and-runs
Common in El Paso shopping centers and apartment complexes. Look for surveillance cameras, leave a note for anyone who might have witnessed, and file a police report even for cosmetic damage. Collision coverage applies after your deductible.
How an independent agent helps
We file the claim, coordinate with EPPD on the report, and push the carrier on UMPD vs. collision to minimize your out-of-pocket cost. We've handled hundreds of El Paso hit-and-run claims.
Frequently asked questions
What insurance covers a hit and run in Texas?
Collision and uninsured motorist coverage both can apply. UMPD often has a lower deductible but requires physical contact and a police report.
Do I need a police report to file a hit and run claim?
Almost always, yes. Most Texas insurers require a report filed within 24 hours, especially for bodily injury claims.
Will my rates go up after a hit and run?
Texas law prohibits surcharges for not-at-fault claims, including hit-and-runs. Your insurer cannot raise your rate solely because of one.
What if I only have liability insurance?
Liability alone does not cover your own vehicle damage. Without collision or UMPD, you would have to absorb the loss unless the other driver is found and has insurance.
How long do I have to report a hit and run?
Call 911 immediately. For statute purposes, you have 10 days to file a CR-2 if police didn't respond, and two years to file a civil claim.
This article is for general information only and is not legal or tax advice. For guidance specific to your situation, talk to a licensed Texas insurance agent. Ready to put it into practice? Get a free quote or request a policy review.