Tragedy on County Road 4002: Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable After Timothy Knighton’s Fatal Head-On Collision

The morning of February 15, 2026, started like any other for 77-year-old Timothy Knighton of Newton, Texas. He climbed into his Lexus SUV, likely planning a routine trip through the quiet roads of Newton County. What he couldn’t have known was that a Dodge pickup truck – operated by a 40-year-old Newton woman – would cross into his lane and end his life in a catastrophic head-on collision.

This wasn’t just another traffic accident. It was a preventable tragedy that raises serious questions about driver responsibility, road safety, and the devastating consequences when one person’s momentary lapse becomes another family’s lifelong grief.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen too many cases like this. As Houston trucking accident attorneys with over 25 years of experience, we know that fatal collisions like this one often involve more than just driver error – they reveal patterns of negligence that demand accountability. If you’ve lost a loved one in a similar accident, or if you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious collision, you need to understand your rights and the legal options available.

What Happened on County Road 4002?

The facts of this case are heartbreaking in their simplicity:

• Date and Time: February 15, 2026, just after 7:30 a.m.
• Location: County Road 4002 near Private Road 8002 in Newton County, Texas
• Vehicles Involved:
• Southbound: 2026 Lexus SUV driven by Timothy Knighton, 77, of Newton
• Northbound: 2025 Dodge pickup truck driven by a 40-year-old Newton woman
• What Occurred: The Dodge pickup crossed into the oncoming lane and struck the Lexus head-on
• Outcome:
• Timothy Knighton was pronounced dead at the scene
• The Dodge driver sustained non-severe injuries
• Texas DPS is investigating the collision

This wasn’t a high-speed chase or a dramatic multi-vehicle pileup. It was a straightforward failure to maintain lane control – a basic driving responsibility that should never result in a fatality.

The Physics of Head-On Collisions: Why These Crashes Are So Deadly

Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of accidents, and the physics behind them explains why:

• Combined Speed: When two vehicles traveling at 55 mph collide head-on, the effective impact speed is 110 mph – not 55 mph. This is because both vehicles’ momentum contributes to the force of the collision.
• Energy Transfer: A vehicle’s kinetic energy increases with the square of its speed. At 60 mph, a vehicle has four times the kinetic energy it has at 30 mph.
• Vehicle Design: Modern vehicles are designed to absorb impact energy in front-end collisions, but this protection has limits. When those limits are exceeded, the passenger compartment can collapse.
• Human Tolerance: The human body simply isn’t designed to withstand the forces generated in a head-on collision at highway speeds.

In Timothy Knighton’s case, the Lexus SUV – a well-engineered vehicle with excellent safety ratings – was no match for the Dodge pickup crossing into its path. The forces involved in such collisions often result in catastrophic injuries or death, even when occupants are properly restrained.

Common Causes of Head-On Collisions: Could This Have Been Prevented?

Head-on collisions don’t happen by accident. They’re almost always the result of driver error or negligence. Based on our experience with similar cases, these are the most common causes:

1. Driver Distraction

Distracted driving is a leading cause of all types of accidents, including head-on collisions. Common distractions include:
– Cell phone use (texting, talking, or using apps)
– Adjusting the radio or climate controls
– Eating or drinking while driving
– Conversations with passengers
– External distractions (looking at scenery, accidents, or billboards)

In rural areas like Newton County, drivers may be more prone to distraction because they assume roads are safer and less congested. This false sense of security can lead to momentary lapses that have tragic consequences.

2. Driver Fatigue

Fatigue impairs drivers in ways similar to alcohol. Drowsy drivers may:
– Drift out of their lane
– Experience microsleeps (brief periods of unconsciousness)
– Have delayed reaction times
– Make poor decisions

While we don’t yet know if fatigue played a role in this specific accident, it’s a common factor in rural collisions, especially in the early morning hours.

3. Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs (both illegal and prescription) impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time. Even small amounts of alcohol can affect driving ability.

4. Failure to Yield Right-of-Way

This is particularly common at intersections and when making left turns. Drivers may misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic or assume they have enough time to complete a maneuver.

5. Improper Passing

Attempting to pass slower vehicles on two-lane roads is a frequent cause of head-on collisions. Drivers may:
– Misjudge the speed of oncoming traffic
– Overestimate their vehicle’s acceleration
– Attempt to pass in no-passing zones
– Be forced to complete the pass due to pressure from following vehicles

6. Wrong-Way Driving

While less common, wrong-way driving is extremely dangerous. Causes include:
– Confusion at complex intersections
– Impaired driving
– Poor signage
– Driver unfamiliarity with the area

7. Medical Emergencies

Sudden medical events like heart attacks, strokes, or seizures can cause drivers to lose control of their vehicles.

8. Vehicle Defects

While less common, mechanical failures can contribute to head-on collisions:
– Steering system failures
– Tire blowouts
– Brake failures
– Suspension problems

9. Road Conditions

Poor road conditions can contribute to head-on collisions:
– Inadequate signage or road markings
– Poor lighting
– Narrow lanes
– Sharp curves
– Lack of centerline rumble strips

10. Weather Conditions

Adverse weather can make it difficult to maintain lane control:
– Rain reducing visibility and traction
– Fog limiting visibility
– Ice or snow creating slippery conditions

The Legal Implications: Who Can Be Held Accountable?

In cases like Timothy Knighton’s, determining liability is crucial for seeking justice and compensation for the victim’s family. While the Texas DPS investigation is ongoing, several parties could potentially be held responsible:

1. The Dodge Pickup Driver

The most obvious potential defendant is the driver of the Dodge pickup. If she was negligent in any way – whether through distraction, fatigue, impairment, or simple inattention – she could be held liable for the consequences.

Under Texas law, drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles safely and maintain control at all times. When they breach this duty and cause harm, they can be held financially responsible for the damages.

2. The Vehicle Owner

If the Dodge pickup was owned by someone other than the driver, the owner could potentially be held liable under the doctrine of negligent entrustment. This applies when:
– The owner knew or should have known the driver was unfit to operate the vehicle
– The owner allowed the driver to use the vehicle anyway
– The driver’s negligence caused the accident

3. Employers (If Applicable)

If the Dodge driver was operating the vehicle in the course of her employment, her employer could be held vicariously liable under the doctrine of respondeat superior. This means employers can be held responsible for their employees’ negligent actions when those actions occur within the scope of employment.

Even if the driver wasn’t technically an employee, if she was performing work-related tasks, the company could still be held liable.

4. Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers

If a vehicle defect contributed to the accident, the manufacturer of the Dodge pickup or any defective component could be held liable under product liability laws. Common defects that could contribute to head-on collisions include:
– Steering system failures
– Brake system defects
– Tire defects
– Electronic stability control failures

5. Government Entities

If road conditions contributed to the accident, government entities responsible for road design and maintenance could potentially be held liable. This might include:
– Newton County
– Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
– Other agencies responsible for road maintenance

However, suing government entities involves special rules and shorter deadlines, so it’s crucial to act quickly.

FMCSA Regulations: How Federal Trucking Laws Apply to All Drivers

While this accident didn’t involve a commercial truck, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) regulations provide important insights into safe driving practices that apply to all motorists. These regulations, found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR), establish standards for safe vehicle operation that can help us understand what might have gone wrong in this case.

Hours of Service Regulations (49 CFR Part 395)

While these regulations specifically apply to commercial drivers, they highlight the dangers of driver fatigue – a risk that applies to all drivers. The FMCSA limits commercial drivers to:
– 11 hours of driving after 10 consecutive hours off duty
– A 14-hour on-duty window
– A 30-minute break after 8 hours of driving
– 60/70 hour weekly limits

These rules exist because fatigue is a known hazard. Even non-commercial drivers should be aware of their own limits and avoid driving when tired.

Driver Qualification Standards (49 CFR Part 391)

Again, these apply to commercial drivers, but they establish important principles about driver fitness that apply to everyone:
– Drivers must be physically qualified to operate vehicles safely
– They must be able to read and speak English sufficiently
– They must be able to safely operate the type of vehicle they’re driving

These standards recognize that safe driving requires physical and mental fitness. All drivers should ensure they’re in condition to drive safely.

Driving Rules (49 CFR Part 392)

This section contains general driving rules that apply to all motorists:
– § 392.3 – Ill or Fatigued Operator: No driver shall operate a commercial motor vehicle while ill or fatigued. This principle applies to all drivers – operating a vehicle while fatigued is dangerous and potentially negligent.
– § 392.4 – Drugs and Other Substances: Drivers are prohibited from being under the influence of any substance that renders them incapable of safe driving. This includes illegal drugs, prescription medications, and alcohol.
– § 392.5 – Alcohol Prohibition: Drivers cannot use alcohol within 4 hours of going on duty or while on duty. While this is a commercial driver rule, it establishes an important safety principle.
– § 392.6 – Speed and Following Distance: Drivers must operate at safe speeds and maintain safe following distances. This is a fundamental rule of safe driving that applies to everyone.
– § 392.11 – Following Too Closely: Drivers must not follow other vehicles more closely than is reasonable and prudent.

Vehicle Inspection and Maintenance (49 CFR Part 396)

While these rules apply to commercial vehicles, they establish important principles about vehicle safety:
– Vehicles must be systematically inspected, repaired, and maintained
– Drivers must conduct pre-trip and post-trip inspections
– Known defects must be repaired before vehicles are operated

All drivers should ensure their vehicles are properly maintained and safe to operate.

The Devastating Impact of Head-On Collisions

Head-on collisions like the one that killed Timothy Knighton often result in catastrophic injuries or death. The forces involved are simply too great for the human body to withstand. Common injuries include:

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBI occurs when a sudden trauma causes damage to the brain. In head-on collisions, this can happen when:
– The head strikes the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield
– The brain impacts the inside of the skull due to sudden deceleration
– Objects penetrate the skull

TBI can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage resulting in permanent disability or death.

Spinal Cord Injuries

The spinal cord can be damaged when the spine is compressed, twisted, or severed. This can result in:
– Paraplegia (paralysis of the lower body)
– Quadriplegia (paralysis of all four limbs)
– Partial paralysis
– Loss of sensation
– Loss of bodily functions

Internal Organ Damage

The forces in a head-on collision can cause internal organs to be crushed or ruptured. Common injuries include:
– Liver lacerations
– Spleen damage
– Kidney injuries
– Lung contusions
– Internal bleeding

Broken Bones

The impact can cause multiple fractures, including:
– Skull fractures
– Facial fractures
– Rib fractures
– Pelvic fractures
– Leg and arm fractures

Amputations

In severe cases, limbs may be severed at the scene or require surgical amputation due to the extent of the damage.

Burns

If the collision results in a fire, occupants may suffer severe burns requiring extensive treatment and resulting in permanent scarring.

Wrongful Death

In the most tragic cases, like Timothy Knighton’s, the injuries are fatal. Wrongful death claims allow surviving family members to seek compensation for:
– Lost future income
– Loss of companionship and guidance
– Mental anguish
– Funeral expenses
– Medical expenses incurred before death

What Timothy Knighton’s Family Can Do Now

While nothing can bring back their loved one, Timothy Knighton’s family has legal options to seek justice and compensation. Here’s what they should consider:

1. Preserve Evidence

Evidence in fatal accident cases can disappear quickly. It’s crucial to:
– Obtain a copy of the police accident report
– Preserve any photographs or videos from the scene
– Document witness statements
– Preserve the vehicles involved (if possible)
– Gather medical records and autopsy reports

2. Identify All Potentially Liable Parties

As discussed earlier, multiple parties could potentially be held responsible. A thorough investigation should identify all possible defendants.

3. Understand the Statute of Limitations

In Texas, the statute of limitations for wrongful death claims is two years from the date of death. This means the family has until February 15, 2028, to file a lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to act much sooner to preserve evidence and build a strong case.

4. Consider a Wrongful Death Claim

A wrongful death claim can seek compensation for:
– Lost future income and benefits
– Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
– Mental anguish and emotional suffering
– Funeral and burial expenses
– Medical expenses incurred before death
– Pain and suffering experienced by the deceased before death

5. Consult with an Experienced Attorney

Wrongful death cases are complex and emotionally challenging. An experienced attorney can:
– Conduct a thorough investigation
– Identify all liable parties
– Gather and preserve evidence
– Handle communications with insurance companies
– Build a strong case for maximum compensation
– Represent the family in court if necessary

How This Tragedy Connects to Houston’s Roads

While this accident occurred in Newton County, the same dangers exist on Houston’s highways and rural roads. Houston’s position as a major transportation hub means our roads see heavy truck traffic, distracted drivers, and the same risk factors that led to this tragedy.

Houston’s Trucking Corridors

Houston is crisscrossed by major trucking routes that see heavy commercial traffic:
– I-10: One of the busiest trucking corridors in the country, connecting Houston to San Antonio, El Paso, and beyond
– I-45: The primary north-south route through Houston, connecting to Dallas and Galveston
– I-69/US-59: A major route connecting Houston to the northeast and Mexico
– I-610 Loop: The inner loop that sees heavy truck traffic serving the Port of Houston and local distribution centers
– SH 288: Connecting Houston to the Gulf Coast and serving the Texas Medical Center
– SH 225: The Pasadena Freeway, serving the Ship Channel industrial area

These corridors see thousands of trucks daily, increasing the risk of accidents.

Common Danger Zones in Houston

Certain areas in Houston are particularly prone to accidents:
– The I-10/I-45 Interchange: One of the most complex and dangerous interchanges in Texas
– The I-610 Loop: Heavy congestion and frequent lane changes create accident risks
– The Ship Channel Area: Industrial traffic mixed with commuter vehicles
– The Port of Houston: Heavy truck traffic serving the port
– Construction Zones: Houston’s constant roadwork creates hazards

Local Factors That Increase Risk

Houston’s unique characteristics create specific risks:
– Heavy Rain and Flooding: Houston’s frequent rain reduces visibility and traction
– Heat and Humidity: Extreme heat can cause tire blowouts and other mechanical failures
– Diverse Driver Population: Houston’s multicultural population includes many drivers unfamiliar with local roads
– Oil and Gas Industry: The energy sector creates specialized truck traffic with unique risks
– Port Traffic: The Port of Houston is one of the busiest in the country, generating massive truck traffic

Preventing Future Tragedies: What Can Be Done?

Head-on collisions like the one that killed Timothy Knighton are preventable. Here are steps that can be taken to reduce these tragedies:

For Drivers:

1. Stay Focused: Avoid all distractions while driving. Put your phone away and focus on the road.
2. Never Drive Impaired: Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or medications that affect your ability.
3. Get Enough Rest: Never drive when you’re tired. Fatigue impairs your ability to react.
4. Obey Speed Limits: Speeding reduces your ability to react and increases the severity of accidents.
5. Maintain Your Vehicle: Regular maintenance can prevent mechanical failures that lead to accidents.
6. Be Extra Cautious on Rural Roads: Rural roads often have less lighting, fewer safety features, and more wildlife.
7. Use Defensive Driving Techniques: Always be aware of other drivers and anticipate potential hazards.
8. Avoid Aggressive Driving: Road rage and aggressive driving increase the risk of accidents.

For Government and Transportation Agencies:

1. Improve Road Design: Better road design can reduce the risk of head-on collisions:
   – Install centerline rumble strips to alert drivers when they’re crossing into oncoming traffic
   – Improve signage and road markings
   – Add more passing lanes on two-lane roads
   – Improve lighting on rural roads
2. Enhance Enforcement: Increased enforcement of traffic laws can deter dangerous driving behaviors.
3. Improve Emergency Response: Faster emergency response can save lives in rural areas.
4. Public Education Campaigns: Educate the public about the dangers of distracted, impaired, and fatigued driving.
5. Improve Vehicle Safety Standards: Advocate for better vehicle safety features that can prevent or mitigate head-on collisions.

For Vehicle Manufacturers:

1. Develop Better Safety Features: Vehicle manufacturers can develop and implement better safety features:
   – Automatic emergency braking
   – Lane departure warning systems
   – Blind spot detection
   – Advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS)
2. Improve Vehicle Design: Design vehicles to better protect occupants in head-on collisions.
3. Improve Crash Avoidance Technology: Develop technology that can help prevent head-on collisions.

Legal Precedents: How Courts Have Handled Similar Cases

While every case is unique, courts have consistently held drivers and other parties accountable in head-on collision cases. Here are some relevant precedents:

1. Negligence Per Se

When a driver violates a traffic law and causes an accident, courts often apply the doctrine of negligence per se. This means the violation itself is considered evidence of negligence. For example:
– If a driver crosses the centerline (violating Texas Transportation Code § 545.051), this could be considered negligence per se.
– If a driver is speeding (violating § 545.351), this could also be negligence per se.

In Timothy Knighton’s case, if the Dodge driver crossed into his lane, this would likely be considered negligence per se.

2. Wrongful Death Damages

Texas courts have consistently awarded substantial damages in wrongful death cases. For example:
– In a 2021 case, a Texas jury awarded $730 million to the family of a woman killed by an oversize load on I-35. The verdict included $480 million in compensatory damages and $250 million in punitive damages.
– In 2022, a Texas jury awarded $150 million to the families of two children killed in a crash with a Werner Enterprises truck.
– In 2024, a Texas jury awarded $37.5 million to a trucking accident victim.

These cases demonstrate that Texas juries are willing to hold negligent parties accountable for the full extent of the harm they cause.

3. Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct, Texas courts have awarded punitive damages. For example:
– In the $730 million verdict mentioned above, $250 million was in punitive damages.
– In a 2021 Florida case, a jury awarded $900 million in punitive damages in a trucking accident case involving gross negligence.

Punitive damages are designed to punish wrongdoers and deter similar conduct in the future.

4. Government Liability

While government entities have some immunity, courts have held them liable when their negligence contributes to accidents. For example:
– In a 2019 case, a Texas court held a county liable for a fatal accident caused by poor road design.
– In 2020, TxDOT was held partially liable for an accident caused by inadequate signage.

If road conditions contributed to Timothy Knighton’s accident, the responsible government entity could potentially be held liable.

The Role of Insurance in Head-On Collision Cases

Insurance plays a crucial role in accident cases. Here’s what you need to know:

Minimum Insurance Requirements in Texas

Texas law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance:
– $30,000 per person for bodily injury
– $60,000 per accident for bodily injury
– $25,000 for property damage

However, these minimums are often insufficient to cover the damages in serious accidents.

Commercial Insurance Policies

If the at-fault driver was operating a vehicle for business purposes, commercial insurance policies may apply. These typically have much higher limits than personal auto policies.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have sufficient insurance, uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can provide additional protection. This coverage is optional in Texas but highly recommended.

The Insurance Claims Process

After an accident, the insurance claims process typically involves:
1. Reporting the Accident: Notify your insurance company and the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
2. Investigation: The insurance companies will investigate the accident.
3. Evaluation: The insurance companies will evaluate the damages.
4. Negotiation: The insurance companies will negotiate a settlement.
5. Resolution: The case will either settle or go to court.

Why You Need an Attorney

Insurance companies are businesses, and their goal is to pay as little as possible. They have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize claims. Having your own attorney levels the playing field and helps ensure you receive fair compensation.

What to Do If You’re Involved in a Similar Accident

If you’re involved in a head-on collision or any serious accident, here’s what you should do:

At the Scene:

1. Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if needed.
2. Check for Injuries: Assess yourself and others for injuries.
3. Move to Safety: If possible, move vehicles out of traffic to prevent further accidents.
4. Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, contact information, insurance details, and vehicle information.
5. Document the Scene: Take photographs of the vehicles, the accident scene, and any visible injuries.
6. Talk to Witnesses: Get contact information from any witnesses.
7. Don’t Admit Fault: Don’t say anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.

After the Accident:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Even if you don’t think you’re injured, see a doctor. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
2. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: Attend all follow-up appointments and follow your treatment plan.
3. Document Everything: Keep records of all medical treatments, expenses, and how the accident has affected your life.
4. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company.
5. Don’t Give Recorded Statements: Don’t give recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company without consulting an attorney.
6. Consult with an Attorney: An experienced attorney can protect your rights and help you navigate the legal process.

Why Act Quickly?

Evidence in accident cases can disappear quickly. Here’s why you should act fast:
– Black Box Data: Many vehicles have event data recorders that can provide crucial information about the accident. This data can be overwritten if not preserved.
– Surveillance Footage: Businesses and traffic cameras may have captured the accident, but this footage is often deleted after a short period.
– Witness Memories: Witness memories fade over time.
– Physical Evidence: Vehicles may be repaired or scrapped, and the accident scene may change.

How Attorney911 Can Help

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for accident victims for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has extensive experience handling complex accident cases, including those involving catastrophic injuries and wrongful death.

Here’s how we can help if you’ve been involved in a serious accident:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

We act fast to preserve crucial evidence:
– Send spoliation letters to all potentially liable parties
– Obtain and preserve black box data
– Secure surveillance footage
– Document the accident scene
– Interview witnesses

2. Thorough Investigation

We conduct a comprehensive investigation to determine what happened and who is responsible:
– Review police reports and accident reconstruction data
– Analyze vehicle damage and black box data
– Interview witnesses
– Consult with accident reconstruction experts
– Review medical records

3. Identify All Liable Parties

We identify all parties who may be responsible for your injuries:
– The at-fault driver
– The vehicle owner
– Employers (if the driver was working)
– Vehicle or parts manufacturers
– Government entities (if road conditions contributed)

4. Build a Strong Case

We build a compelling case to maximize your compensation:
– Gather and organize evidence
– Consult with medical experts
– Calculate the full extent of your damages
– Prepare for trial

5. Negotiate with Insurance Companies

We handle all communications with insurance companies:
– Deal with insurance adjusters
– Negotiate for fair compensation
– Fight lowball settlement offers

6. Take Your Case to Trial if Necessary

While most cases settle, we’re always prepared to go to trial:
– Present your case to a jury
– Cross-examine witnesses
– Argue for maximum compensation

7. Provide Compassionate Support

We understand that accidents are traumatic experiences. We provide:
– Emotional support
– Guidance through the legal process
– Help accessing medical care
– Assistance with insurance claims

Our Track Record: Results That Speak for Themselves

Ralph Manginello and the team at Attorney911 have a proven track record of success in accident cases:

• $5+ Million: Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million: Car accident amputation settlement
• $2.5+ Million: Truck crash recovery
• $2+ Million: Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions recovered for families in trucking-related wrongful death cases

We’ve taken on major corporations like Walmart, Amazon, Coca-Cola, FedEx, and UPS – and we’ve won. Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows exactly how insurance companies try to minimize claims.

Why Choose Attorney911?

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious accident, you need an attorney who:
– Has extensive experience with complex accident cases
– Understands the tactics insurance companies use
– Is prepared to take your case to trial if necessary
– Will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve
– Provides compassionate, personalized service

At Attorney911, we offer:
– 25+ Years of Experience: Ralph Manginello has been fighting for accident victims since 1998.
– Federal Court Experience: We’re admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.
– Insurance Defense Insight: Our team includes a former insurance defense attorney who knows how insurers operate.
– Contingency Fee Representation: You pay nothing unless we win your case.
– 24/7 Availability: We’re here when you need us, day or night.
– Offices Across Texas: With locations in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we serve clients throughout the state.

The Importance of Acting Quickly

If you’ve been involved in a serious accident, time is of the essence. Here’s why you should contact an attorney immediately:

1. Evidence Preservation: Crucial evidence can disappear quickly. We send spoliation letters immediately to preserve black box data, surveillance footage, and other evidence.
2. Statute of Limitations: In Texas, you have only two years to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit.
3. Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance companies start working immediately to minimize your claim. You need someone on your side who can level the playing field.
4. Medical Treatment: We can help you access the medical care you need and document your injuries properly.
5. Peace of Mind: Knowing you have an experienced attorney handling your case allows you to focus on your recovery.

What to Expect When You Contact Attorney911

When you contact our office, here’s what you can expect:

1. Free Initial Consultation: We’ll discuss your case and explain your legal options.
2. Case Evaluation: We’ll evaluate the strength of your case and the potential damages.
3. Immediate Action: We’ll take immediate steps to preserve evidence and protect your rights.
4. Thorough Investigation: We’ll conduct a comprehensive investigation to build your case.
5. Regular Updates: We’ll keep you informed about the progress of your case.
6. Aggressive Representation: We’ll fight for the maximum compensation you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions About Head-On Collision Cases

1. Who can be held responsible for a head-on collision?

Multiple parties could potentially be held responsible, including:
– The at-fault driver
– The vehicle owner
– Employers (if the driver was working)
– Vehicle or parts manufacturers
– Government entities (if road conditions contributed)

2. What damages can I recover in a head-on collision case?

You may be able to recover:
– Medical expenses (past and future)
– Lost wages and lost earning capacity
– Pain and suffering
– Mental anguish
– Property damage
– Loss of consortium (for spouses)
– Punitive damages (in cases of gross negligence)

3. How long do I have to file a lawsuit?

In Texas, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. For wrongful death cases, it’s two years from the date of death.

4. What if the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the at-fault driver doesn’t have insurance, you may be able to recover from your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage.

5. What if I was partially at fault for the accident?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence rule. As long as you’re not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

6. How much is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors, including:
– The severity of your injuries
– The extent of your medical expenses
– Your lost wages and lost earning capacity
– The impact on your quality of life
– The degree of the other party’s negligence
– Available insurance coverage

7. Do I need an attorney?

While you’re not required to have an attorney, insurance companies have teams of adjusters and attorneys working to minimize your claim. Having your own attorney levels the playing field and helps ensure you receive fair compensation.

8. How long will my case take?

The timeline varies depending on the complexity of your case. Simple cases may settle in a few months, while complex cases may take a year or more.

9. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle out of court, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in settlement negotiations.

10. How much does it cost to hire an attorney?

At Attorney911, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing unless we win your case. Our fee is a percentage of your recovery.

The Bottom Line: You Deserve Justice

The tragedy that befell Timothy Knighton is a stark reminder of how quickly lives can change – or end – due to another driver’s negligence. If you’ve lost a loved one in a similar accident, or if you’re dealing with the aftermath of a serious collision, you deserve justice.

At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that serious accidents can take. We’re here to fight for you, to hold negligent parties accountable, and to help you secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Remember, time is of the essence. Evidence can disappear quickly, and the statute of limitations is ticking. Don’t wait to seek the help you need.

Take Action Now: Your Future Depends on It

If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident, don’t face this challenge alone. The team at Attorney911 is ready to fight for you.

📞 Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation.

📧 Email Ralph Manginello directly at ralph@atty911.com

🌐 Visit our website at https://attorney911.com to learn more

“Every hour you wait, evidence in your case is disappearing. Black box data can be overwritten. Witnesses forget what they saw. The trucking company’s rapid-response team is already working to protect their interests. You need an attorney who moves just as fast. Call Attorney911 NOW at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll send a preservation letter today to protect your evidence.”

Ralph Manginello and the team at Attorney911 have been fighting for accident victims for over 25 years. We know how to hold negligent parties accountable and secure the compensation our clients deserve. Don’t let the insurance companies take advantage of you. Call us today and let us fight for you.

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