HPD Offers Tips on Hit-and-Run Crashes

January 26th, 2016

76As investigators in the Houston Police Department Vehicular Crimes Division investigate at least four hit-and-run crashes that killed three people since Jan. 23, investigators urge pedestrians to be cautious in and around Houston’s busy roadways, especially at night.

At a news briefing, investigators asked for the public’s help in identifying vehicles and drivers wanted in hit-and-run crashes and reminded the public that a Crime Stoppers reward of up to $5,000 is available in each case. Investigators discussed how most accidents involving pedestrians this month involve drivers who fled the scene, a felony crime.

Pedestrians are reminded:

  • Do not walk across the street unless you are at a crosswalk.
  • Take the extra minute or two to walk to a crosswalk.
  • Obey traffic signals of Walk / Don’t Walk.
  • Look before you step.
  • Do not assume vehicles will stop.  Make eye contact with a driver; don’t just look at a vehicle.
  • Dress to be seen. Wear light colored clothing if walking at night and carry a flashlight, if possible.
  • Do not wear headphones or talk on a cell phone while walking across the street.
  • Be careful in construction zones.

Motorists are reminded to:

  • Be cautious, alert and aware of your surroundings.
  • Avoid distractions (like talking and texting on cell phones).
  • Always be on the lookout for pedestrians and bicyclists.
  • Stop and render aid if you strike a pedestrian or vehicle.
  • Stop and render aid even if you do not have a driver’s license or insurance.  In most instances, those are Class C misdemeanor citations issued as opposed to felony charges for fleeing the scene.

For more information on pedestrian safety go to http://www.houstontx.gov/police/pdfs/brochures/english/Pedestrian_Safety_Awareness.pdf

Anyone with information in any hit-and-run crash in the city limits is urged to contact the HPD Hit and Run Unit at 713-247-4065 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS, where tips remain anonymous.

Bay Area Houston Magazine