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Crash investigation and driver duties
Summary of the topic
Chapter 550 of the Transportation Code does two jobs. Subchapter B sets the duties of every driver involved in a collision, and Subchapter C sets the officer's side of the investigation. The chapter applies on a highway or other public place and on a business parking area provided for clients or patrons, but not on private residential property or a lot that charges for parking.
Under section 550.021, the driver of a vehicle involved in a collision that results or is reasonably likely to result in injury or death must immediately stop at the scene, return if the driver has left, determine whether a person needs aid, and remain until the duties in section 550.023 are done. Failing to do so is a second degree felony where the collision caused a death, a third degree felony where it caused serious bodily injury, and an offense punishable by up to five years in prison or up to one year in jail for any other injury. Section 550.022 applies the same stop and remain duties to a collision that only damaged an attended vehicle. The offense is a Class C misdemeanor where the damage is less than $200 and a Class B misdemeanor where it is $200 or more.
Section 550.023 requires the driver to give a name and address, the vehicle registration number and the name of the liability insurer, to show a driver's license if asked, and to give injured persons reasonable assistance, including transport to a hospital where treatment is apparently necessary. Section 550.024 covers a collision with an unattended vehicle, where the driver must find the owner or leave a written notice, and section 550.025 covers damage to a fixture or structure next to the highway. Section 550.026 requires immediate notice to the police or sheriff when a collision causes injury or death, or leaves a vehicle that cannot be driven normally and safely.
Subchapter C requires an investigating officer to make a written report where a collision caused injury or death or property damage of $1,000 or more. Section 550.062 requires the report to be filed electronically no later than the tenth day after the collision. Section 550.065 treats the report as confidential, with release to listed persons and a redacted version available to anyone.
Provisions this topic covers
- Tex. Transportation Code ch. 550
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