Recently, a Dallas police officer was injured in a hit-and-run crash in Dallas. According to WFAA-TV, the incident happened on Memorial Day when the suspected hit-and-run driver crashed into the officer’s police car in Pecan Grove Park near the intersection of Kiest Boulevard and Westmoreland Road. The collision resulted in the squad car falling 24 feet and landing on its roof in a creek. The officer suffered severe injuries, including a punctured lung. However, he is expected to recover.
The alleged hit-and-run driver was picked up on an auto theft warrant. Another suspect was arrested in connection to the incident. Prior to making the arrests, Dallas police were questioning persons of interest and awaiting forensic evidence.
What Happens If You Leave the Scene of an Accident?
In Texas, if you leave the scene of a car accident involving serious injury or death, it is considered a third-degree felony. A third-degree felony is punishable by 2 to 10 years in prison. If the hit-and-run crash does not involve a death and the victims are not seriously injured, you could still be on the hook for up to one year in county jail or up to five years in state prison and/or a $10,000 fine.
Do you think there’s ever a good reason to leave the scene of a car accident?
Mike GoolsbyA veteran in both civil court cases and criminal defense, Mike Goolsby is a respected lawyer with more than 16 years of experience practicing law. He received his Bachelor of Business Administration degree from the University of North Texas in 1990, followed by his J.D. from the prestigious Thomas M. Cooley Law School in 1994. After earning his law degree, Mr. Goolsby worked as an Assistant District Attorney for the Dallas County District Attorney’s Office. As a trial lawyer, he was able to gain exceptional access to the criminal court system in this major metropolitan area, giving him immeasurable, distinct experience that helped him build a solid foundation for his own private legal practice. Mr. Goolsby went on to practice civil law for Maverick Acceptance Group, a venture capital company. Here, he gained invaluable knowledge of the civil side of the law, adding to his already diverse portfolio of legal expertise. In 1999, he opened the doors of The Goolsby Law Firm and has been successfully serving the residents of North Texas ever since. As an attorney, Mr. Goolsby combines his experience in both the civil and criminal fields to offer unmatched legal representation to his clients. With a long list of satisfied clients, Mr. Goolsby continues to build his practice through fair and aggressive legal defense.