Motorcyclist Fernando Villa Killed in El Paso Collision, driver fled

FATAL HIT-AND-RUN INVESTIGATION

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, hit-and-run collisions resulted in 2,046 deaths and 18,742 injuries statewide in 2023. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows Texas continues to lead the country in fatal hit-and-run crashes, accounting for nearly 10% of all such fatalities nationwide.

TxDOT statistics also indicate that hit-and-run incidents in Texas rose by approximately 12% between 2019 and 2023, with the highest concentration occurring in urban communities. The AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety reports that nearly 70% of victims are pedestrians or bicyclists, while most crashes take place between 6 p.m. and midnight.

Law enforcement agencies in Texas solve roughly 8% of hit-and-run investigations, slightly below the national clearance rate of 10%, highlighting the challenges investigators face in identifying suspects.

Candice Bond, an experienced hit-and-run accident attorney, said it is critical for victims and families to seek an independent investigation promptly following a serious crash to help preserve evidence and protect legal rights.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important in order to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Bond, a Managing Partner of Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must thoroughly be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”

WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM

Pending the outcome of the investigation, the victim’s family could have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral costs, emotional suffering, loss of companionship, and other damages related to the fatal crash.

Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal, explained, “An incident may qualify as a wrongful death when a negligent or wrongful act leads to the loss of a person’s life. In motor vehicle accidents involving reckless driving, distraction, speeding, or impaired driving, surviving relatives are often left with the option of filing a civil action against the at-fault driver.”

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