Texas Transportation Code 550.022 – Collision Involving Damage to Vehicle
(a) Except as provided by Subsection (b), the operator of a vehicle involved in a collision resulting only in damage to a vehicle that is driven or attended by a person shall:
(1) immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the collision or as close as possible to the scene of the collision without obstructing traffic more than is necessary;
(2) immediately return to the scene of the collision if the vehicle is not stopped at the scene of the collision; and
(3) remain at the scene of the collision until the operator complies with the requirements of § 550.023.
(b) If a collision occurs on a main lane, ramp, shoulder, median, or adjacent area of a freeway in a metropolitan area and each vehicle involved can be normally and safely driven, each operator shall move the operator’s vehicle as soon as possible to a designated collision investigation site, if available, a location on the frontage road, the nearest suitable cross street, or other suitable location to complete the requirements of § 550.023 and minimize interference with freeway traffic.
Attorney's Note
Under the Texas Codes, punishments for crimes depend on the classification. In the case of this section:| Class | Prison | Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class B misdemeanor | up to 180 days | up to $2,000 |
| Class C misdemeanor | up to $500 |
Terms Used In Texas Transportation Code 550.022
- Person: includes corporation, organization, government or governmental subdivision or agency, business trust, estate, trust, partnership, association, and any other legal entity. See Texas Government Code 311.005
(c) A person commits an offense if the person does not stop or does not comply with the requirements of Subsection (a). An offense under this subsection is:
(1) a Class C misdemeanor, if the damage to all vehicles is less than $200; or
(2) a Class B misdemeanor, if the damage to all vehicles is $200 or more.
(c-1) A person commits an offense if the person does not comply with the requirements of Subsection (b). An offense under this subsection is a Class C misdemeanor.
(d) In this section, a vehicle can be normally and safely driven only if the vehicle:
(1) does not require towing; and
(2) can be operated under its own power and in its usual manner, without additional damage or hazard to the vehicle, other traffic, or the roadway.