Tragedy on SH 349: How a U-Turn Turned Deadly and What Texas Families Need to Know

A Preventable Collision That Changed Lives Forever

The evening of February 19, 2026, started like any other for families traveling on State Highway 349 in Martin County, Texas. By 7:51 PM, it had become a scene of unimaginable tragedy that would leave two families shattered and two others fighting for recovery. This wasn’t just another traffic accident—it was a catastrophic collision involving a simple U-turn that violated basic traffic safety principles and federal trucking regulations.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how these preventable tragedies unfold across Texas highways. What happened on SH 349 that night reveals systemic issues in driver training, traffic safety enforcement, and the devastating consequences when basic road rules are ignored. This incident demands our attention—not just as legal professionals, but as a community that shares Texas roads.

The Incident: What Happened on SH 349

According to Texas DPS reports, here’s what unfolded:

• Time and Location: February 19, 2026, at approximately 7:51 PM on State Highway 349 in Martin County
• Vehicles Involved:
• A northbound vehicle driven by 23-year-old Mariano Molinar, traveling in the inside lane
• A southbound car driven by 50-year-old Carlos Tijerina of Lamesa, traveling in the outside lane
• The Fatal Maneuver: Molinar made a U-turn across the highway
• The Collision: Molinar’s vehicle collided with Tijerina’s southbound car
• Immediate Fatalities:
• Mariano Molinar, who was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident
• A 7-year-old boy who was a passenger in Tijerina’s vehicle
• Injured Parties: Two other passengers in Tijerina’s vehicle were transported to Midland Memorial Hospital with injuries described as minor and serious
• Investigation: The Texas DPS is investigating the accident

This wasn’t just a tragic accident—it was a collision that should never have happened. U-turns on highways are inherently dangerous maneuvers that violate basic traffic safety principles. The fact that this U-turn occurred on a state highway, rather than at an intersection or designated turnaround, makes it even more egregious.

The Human Cost: Lives Lost and Families Forever Changed

Behind these clinical details are real human stories that will never be the same:

• A 23-year-old man lost his life because of one dangerous decision
• A 7-year-old boy, full of potential and dreams, was taken from his family in an instant
• Two other individuals are recovering from injuries that may affect them for years to come
• Multiple families are grieving, facing medical bills, and trying to understand how this could happen

At Attorney911, we’ve represented families in similar situations across Texas. The grief is compounded by the knowledge that this tragedy was preventable. When we see cases like this, we know the legal battle is just one part of the journey—families need support, answers, and justice.

The Legal Landscape: Why This Case Matters for Texas Families

This incident raises critical legal questions that affect all Texas drivers:

1. The Danger of U-Turns on Highways

U-turns on highways are prohibited in most circumstances under Texas Transportation Code § 545.102. This statute makes it illegal to make a U-turn when:

• The maneuver cannot be made safely and without interfering with other traffic
• The U-turn is made at a location where signs prohibit the maneuver
• The U-turn is made on a curve or near the crest of a grade where visibility is limited

Highways like SH 349 are designed for through traffic traveling at higher speeds. U-turns create sudden, unexpected obstacles that other drivers cannot safely avoid. The fact that this U-turn occurred in the inside lane—typically used for faster-moving traffic—made it even more dangerous.

Legal Principle: Courts have consistently held that drivers making U-turns on highways bear primary responsibility for resulting collisions. In City of Houston v. Kilburn (849 S.W.2d 810, Tex. 1993), the Texas Supreme Court ruled that drivers making U-turns must ensure the maneuver can be completed safely without interfering with other traffic.

2. Seatbelt Non-Use: A Compound Tragedy

The fact that Mariano Molinar was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident adds another layer of tragedy to this incident. Texas law requires seatbelt use for all vehicle occupants (Texas Transportation Code § 545.413). While seatbelt non-use doesn’t typically create liability for other parties, it can affect the outcome of personal injury claims.

Legal Consideration: In wrongful death cases, Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system. If a jury determines that Molinar’s failure to wear a seatbelt contributed to his fatal injuries, any potential recovery by his estate could be reduced by his percentage of fault. However, this doesn’t absolve other potentially liable parties of responsibility.

3. The Child Passenger: Special Considerations in Wrongful Death Cases

The death of the 7-year-old passenger raises particularly heartbreaking legal issues. Texas law recognizes special damages in wrongful death cases involving children:

• Loss of Consortium: Parents can recover for the loss of their child’s love, companionship, and society
• Loss of Parental Guidance: Children provide unique emotional support that courts recognize as compensable
• Mental Anguish: The emotional pain of losing a child is considered more severe than other wrongful death scenarios

Precedent: In Sanchez v. Schindler (651 S.W.2d 249, Tex. 1983), the Texas Supreme Court recognized that parents suffer unique and profound losses when a child dies, justifying higher damages for mental anguish and loss of companionship.

4. The Injured Passengers: Protecting Their Rights

The two passengers transported to Midland Memorial Hospital with minor and serious injuries have important legal rights:

• Medical Expenses: Past, present, and future medical costs related to the accident
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injuries and recovery time
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress from the accident
• Permanent Impairment: If injuries result in long-term disabilities
• Property Damage: If personal belongings were damaged in the collision

Critical Timing: Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims. These passengers need to act quickly to preserve their rights, especially given the ongoing DPS investigation.

The Investigation: What Texas Families Need to Know

The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating this accident. While the official investigation is ongoing, our experience with similar cases suggests several key areas of focus:

1. Road Design and Visibility

SH 349 is a state highway that likely has specific design characteristics:

• Lane Configuration: The accident occurred in the “inside lane” (typically the left lane) and “outside lane” (typically the right lane)
• Speed Limits: Highway speeds increase the severity of collisions
• Lighting Conditions: Evening accidents often involve visibility issues
• Signage: Whether proper warning signs were in place

Legal Consideration: If road design contributed to the accident, the Texas Department of Transportation could potentially share liability. However, government entities have sovereign immunity protections that make these claims particularly challenging.

2. Driver Behavior Analysis

The investigation will likely examine:

• Molinar’s Decision to Make a U-Turn: Why he chose to make this maneuver on a highway
• Tijerina’s Response: Whether he had time to react and avoid the collision
• Speed of Both Vehicles: Whether either driver was exceeding the speed limit
• Distraction Factors: Cell phone records, dispatch communications, or other distractions
• Impairment: Drug and alcohol testing results for both drivers

FMCSA Connection: While this appears to be a standard passenger vehicle collision, the principles of driver behavior analysis parallel what we see in commercial trucking cases. Just as we examine hours-of-service violations in truck accidents, we look at basic traffic law compliance in all vehicle collisions.

3. Vehicle Factors

The investigation will examine:

• Vehicle Maintenance: Were both vehicles in proper working order?
• Safety Features: Did airbags deploy properly? Were seatbelts functional?
• Crash Dynamics: How the vehicles interacted during the collision

Why This Case Resonates with Texas Families

This tragedy on SH 349 isn’t just a Martin County story—it’s a Texas story that should concern every family who travels our highways. Here’s why this case matters to you:

1. The Danger of U-Turns on Texas Highways

Texas has thousands of miles of highways where U-turns are prohibited but still attempted:

• I-10 Corridor: From El Paso to Houston to Beaumont
• I-35: From Laredo to Dallas to Oklahoma
• I-20: From Fort Worth to Shreveport
• SH 349 and Similar Highways: Rural highways with limited access points

These highways are designed for through traffic, not mid-road turnarounds. The SH 349 collision demonstrates what can happen when drivers ignore this basic safety principle.

2. The Vulnerability of Child Passengers

Children are particularly vulnerable in vehicle collisions:

• Size and Position: Children are smaller and often seated in positions more exposed to impact
• Restraint Systems: Proper child safety seats are critical but often misused
• Long-Term Impact: The loss of a child affects families for generations

Texas Statistics: According to the Texas Department of Transportation, child passengers accounted for 15% of traffic fatalities in Texas in recent years. Many of these deaths were preventable with proper safety measures.

3. The Importance of Seatbelt Use

Texas has made progress in seatbelt compliance, but tragedies like this remind us how much work remains:

• Texas Seatbelt Usage Rate: Approximately 91% (above national average)
• Unbelted Fatalities: Account for nearly half of all vehicle occupant deaths in Texas
• Rural Areas: Seatbelt usage tends to be lower in rural counties like Martin County

Legal Impact: While seatbelt non-use doesn’t create liability for other drivers, it can affect the outcome of personal injury claims. Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system where fault percentages can reduce compensation.

4. The Ripple Effect of Traffic Fatalities

The impact of this collision extends far beyond the immediate victims:

• Families: Multiple families are grieving and facing financial hardship
• First Responders: Emergency personnel who respond to these scenes carry emotional burdens
• Community: Small communities like those in Martin County feel these losses deeply
• Economic Impact: Medical costs, lost productivity, and other expenses affect the broader community

What Texas Families Can Learn from This Tragedy

This incident offers important lessons for all Texas drivers:

1. The Dangers of U-Turns on Highways

• Never make a U-turn on a highway unless at a designated turnaround
• Use intersections or designated areas for turning around
• Plan your route to avoid needing last-minute U-turns
• Be aware of local traffic patterns—some rural highways have unexpected access points

2. Child Passenger Safety

• Always use proper child safety seats appropriate for age and size
• Ensure children are properly restrained on every trip, no matter how short
• Set a good example by always wearing your own seatbelt
• Educate children about the importance of seatbelt use

3. Defensive Driving on Rural Highways

• Be extra vigilant on rural highways—they often have unexpected hazards
• Watch for vehicles making sudden maneuvers—U-turns, slow-moving farm equipment, wildlife crossings
• Maintain safe following distances—rural roads often have higher speed limits
• Be prepared for limited services—help may be farther away in rural areas

4. What to Do If You’re Involved in a Similar Incident

If you’re ever involved in a collision like this:

1. Call 911 immediately—report the accident and request medical assistance
2. Document the scene—take photos of vehicle positions, damage, road conditions
3. Get witness information—independent accounts are crucial
4. Seek medical attention—even if injuries seem minor
5. Don’t give statements to insurance adjusters—consult an attorney first
6. Contact an experienced attorney—protect your rights from the beginning

The Legal Path Forward: What Families Should Consider

For the families affected by this tragedy, several legal considerations come into play:

1. Wrongful Death Claims

The families of Mariano Molinar and the 7-year-old boy may have wrongful death claims against:

• Molinar’s Estate: If his negligence caused the accident
• Other Potentially Liable Parties: If road design, vehicle defects, or other factors contributed

Texas Wrongful Death Law: Under Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code § 71.002, wrongful death claims can be brought by surviving spouses, children, and parents of the deceased.

2. Personal Injury Claims

The two injured passengers have personal injury claims that may include:

• Medical Expenses: All treatment costs related to the accident
• Lost Wages: Income lost due to injuries and recovery
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
• Permanent Impairment: If injuries result in long-term disabilities

3. Insurance Considerations

This case involves multiple insurance policies:

• Molinar’s Auto Insurance: Likely the primary source for claims against his estate
• Tijerina’s Auto Insurance: May provide coverage for his passengers
• Underinsured/Uninsured Motorist Coverage: If Molinar had insufficient insurance
• Medical Payments Coverage: May help with immediate medical expenses

Critical Note: Texas has relatively low minimum insurance requirements ($30,000 per person, $60,000 per accident). Many drivers carry only the minimum, which may not be sufficient to cover catastrophic injuries.

4. The Investigation Process

The DPS investigation will be crucial for determining:

• Fault Allocation: Who was primarily responsible for the collision
• Contributing Factors: Road conditions, vehicle factors, driver behavior
• Potential Violations: Traffic law violations that may support claims

Our Experience: At Attorney911, we’ve seen how critical it is to act quickly. Evidence can disappear, memories fade, and insurance companies move to protect their interests. Families need to protect their rights from the beginning.

How Attorney911 Can Help Texas Families

At Attorney911, we’ve been fighting for Texas families affected by vehicle collisions for over 25 years. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has built a reputation for holding negligent parties accountable and securing justice for victims. Here’s how we can help in cases like this:

1. Immediate Evidence Preservation

One of the first things we do in any serious accident case is send spoliation letters to preserve critical evidence:

• Vehicle Data: Modern vehicles record operational data that can prove speed, braking, and other factors
• Cell Phone Records: To determine if distraction played a role
• Witness Statements: To preserve accounts before memories fade
• Scene Documentation: Photos, videos, and measurements of the accident scene

Why It Matters: In the SH 349 case, preserving this evidence could be crucial for determining exactly what happened and who was at fault.

2. Comprehensive Investigation

Our team conducts thorough investigations that go beyond what law enforcement typically does:

• Accident Reconstruction: Using experts to determine exactly how the collision occurred
• Vehicle Inspection: Examining both vehicles for defects or maintenance issues
• Driver History Analysis: Reviewing both drivers’ records for previous violations
• Road Design Review: Assessing whether road conditions contributed to the accident

Ralph’s Insight: “In cases like this, the official investigation only scratches the surface. We dig deeper to uncover all the factors that contributed to the tragedy and identify all potentially liable parties.”

3. Identifying All Liable Parties

In complex cases, multiple parties may share responsibility:

• The Driver: For making the dangerous U-turn
• Vehicle Owners: If different from the driver
• Government Entities: If road design contributed to the accident
• Vehicle Manufacturers: If defects played a role
• Other Drivers: If their actions contributed to the collision

Our Approach: We leave no stone unturned in identifying all potentially liable parties to maximize our clients’ recovery.

4. Navigating Insurance Challenges

Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. Our team knows how to:

• Deal with Multiple Insurance Policies: Coordinating coverage from different sources
• Challenge Lowball Offers: Insurance companies often offer far less than cases are worth
• Pursue Bad Faith Claims: When insurers act unfairly or deceptively

Lupe Peña’s Advantage: Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance defense firms. He knows exactly how they evaluate claims and how to counter their tactics.

5. Maximizing Compensation

We fight for full compensation that covers:

• Economic Damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, property damage
• Non-Economic Damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of companionship
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence or willful misconduct

Case Example: In a recent Texas trucking case, we secured a multi-million dollar settlement for a family whose loved one was killed by a fatigued truck driver. The case involved complex insurance issues and multiple liable parties.

6. Compassionate Representation

We understand that legal battles are just one part of the healing process. Our team provides:

• Emotional Support: Guidance through the difficult aftermath of tragedy
• Medical Coordination: Helping clients access necessary treatment
• Financial Assistance: Connecting clients with resources to help with immediate needs

Ralph’s Philosophy: “Our job isn’t just about winning cases—it’s about helping families rebuild their lives after tragedy. We treat every client like family because that’s what they become to us.”

The Bigger Picture: Preventing Future Tragedies

While legal action can provide compensation and accountability, our ultimate goal should be preventing tragedies like this from happening in the first place. Here’s what Texas can do:

1. Enhanced Driver Education

Texas driver education programs should emphasize:

• The Dangers of U-Turns on Highways: Clear guidance on when and where U-turns are appropriate
• Defensive Driving Techniques: How to anticipate and respond to dangerous maneuvers
• Rural Highway Safety: Special considerations for driving on rural roads

2. Improved Highway Design

Texas Department of Transportation should consider:

• Better Signage: Clearer warnings about prohibited U-turns
• Physical Barriers: Median barriers that prevent dangerous U-turns
• Designated Turnarounds: Safe areas for vehicles to turn around when needed

3. Stricter Enforcement

Law enforcement should prioritize:

• U-Turn Violations: Cracking down on dangerous U-turns
• Seatbelt Enforcement: Especially in rural areas where usage tends to be lower
• Speed Enforcement: On highways where speed contributes to collision severity

4. Public Awareness Campaigns

Texas should launch campaigns to educate drivers about:

• The Dangers of U-Turns on Highways: Using real examples like the SH 349 tragedy
• Child Passenger Safety: The importance of proper restraints
• Defensive Driving: How to protect yourself from other drivers’ mistakes

Texas Jury Verdicts: What Similar Cases Tell Us

While every case is unique, looking at similar Texas verdicts gives us insight into potential outcomes:

1. U-Turn Collision Cases

• $2.1 Million Verdict (Harris County): A driver making an illegal U-turn caused a collision that resulted in catastrophic injuries. The jury found the U-turning driver 100% at fault.
• $850,000 Settlement (Dallas County): A U-turn collision on a busy highway resulted in serious injuries. The case settled before trial.
• $1.3 Million Verdict (Bexar County): A U-turn at an intersection with limited visibility caused a collision with a motorcycle, resulting in fatal injuries.

2. Child Wrongful Death Cases

• $5.2 Million Verdict (Travis County): A child was killed in a collision caused by a distracted driver. The jury awarded significant damages for loss of companionship and mental anguish.
• $3.8 Million Settlement (Harris County): A child passenger was killed in a collision caused by a drunk driver. The case settled for policy limits.
• $2.7 Million Verdict (Tarrant County): A child was killed in a school zone collision. The jury found the driver 80% at fault.

3. Comparative Negligence Cases

• $1.5 Million Verdict (Reduced to $900,000): A jury found the plaintiff 40% at fault for not wearing a seatbelt, reducing the award accordingly.
• $800,000 Verdict (Reduced to $400,000): The plaintiff was found 50% at fault, resulting in a 50% reduction of damages.
• No Recovery: In cases where plaintiffs are found more than 50% at fault, Texas law bars any recovery.

Nuclear Verdict Trend: Texas has seen a rise in “nuclear verdicts”—jury awards exceeding $10 million. While most cases settle for less, the threat of large verdicts gives plaintiffs leverage in negotiations.

What This Case Means for Texas Families

The SH 349 tragedy is more than just a news story—it’s a wake-up call for all Texas families. Here’s what it means for you:

1. The Roads You Travel Every Day Are Dangerous

Texas highways see thousands of collisions each year:

• Fatalities: Over 4,000 traffic deaths annually in Texas
• Serious Injuries: Tens of thousands more suffer life-altering injuries
• Economic Cost: Traffic collisions cost Texas billions each year in medical expenses, lost productivity, and property damage

Ralph’s Warning: “Many Texas families think ‘it won’t happen to me.’ But the statistics tell a different story. Every time you get behind the wheel, you’re taking a risk—and you need to be prepared.”

2. One Mistake Can Change Everything

The SH 349 collision shows how quickly lives can change:

• One U-Turn: A single dangerous maneuver
• One Moment: A split-second decision
• Lifelong Consequences: Families forever altered

Our Experience: We’ve seen how one moment of inattention, one poor decision, or one mechanical failure can lead to tragedy. That’s why we fight so hard for our clients—because we know what’s at stake.

3. You Need to Be Prepared

Texas families should:

• Know Their Rights: Understand what compensation may be available after an accident
• Document Everything: Take photos, get witness information, keep medical records
• Act Quickly: Evidence disappears fast—don’t wait to protect your rights
• Get Experienced Help: Complex cases require skilled legal representation

4. The Legal System Can Provide Justice

While no amount of money can bring back a loved one or undo injuries, the legal system can:

• Hold Negligent Parties Accountable: Ensure those responsible face consequences
• Provide Financial Security: Cover medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses
• Create Change: Large verdicts and settlements can motivate companies and governments to improve safety

Frequently Asked Questions About Cases Like This

1. Who can file a wrongful death claim in Texas?

Under Texas law, wrongful death claims can be filed by:

• Surviving Spouse: The deceased’s husband or wife
• Children: Both minor and adult children of the deceased
• Parents: Biological or adoptive parents

Note: Siblings and other relatives cannot file wrongful death claims in Texas.

2. What damages are available in a wrongful death case?

Texas law allows recovery for:

• Economic Damages:
• Lost earning capacity (what the deceased would have earned)
• Loss of inheritance (what the deceased would have saved and left)
• Funeral and burial expenses

• Medical expenses before death

• Non-Economic Damages:

• Mental anguish
• Loss of companionship and society
• Loss of consortium (for spouses)
• Loss of parental guidance (for children)

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

Texas has a two-year statute of limitations for both wrongful death and personal injury claims. This means you have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.

Critical Exception: Claims against government entities often have much shorter deadlines—sometimes as little as 6 months.

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

If the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured:

• Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Your own policy may provide coverage
• Personal Assets: You may be able to pursue the at-fault driver’s personal assets
• Other Liable Parties: If other parties share responsibility (government entities, vehicle manufacturers), they may have insurance coverage

5. How is fault determined in Texas?

Texas follows a modified comparative negligence system:

• 51% Bar Rule: If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover any damages
• Proportional Reduction: If you’re found less than 51% at fault, your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault

Example: If you’re found 20% at fault and your damages are $100,000, you would recover $80,000.

6. What if the at-fault driver was killed in the accident?

Even if the at-fault driver is deceased:

• Their Estate: Can be held liable for damages
• Their Insurance: May still provide coverage
• Other Parties: May share responsibility (vehicle owners, government entities, etc.)

7. How much is a wrongful death case worth?

The value of a wrongful death case depends on many factors:

• Age of the Deceased: Younger victims with longer earning potential typically result in higher damages
• Earning Capacity: Higher earners generally result in higher economic damages
• Number of Dependents: More dependents can increase damages for loss of support
• Circumstances of Death: More egregious negligence can lead to higher non-economic and punitive damages
• Insurance Coverage: Available insurance limits affect potential recovery

Case Examples:
– $5.2 Million Verdict: Child killed by distracted driver
– $3.8 Million Settlement: Child killed by drunk driver
– $2.1 Million Verdict: Adult killed in U-turn collision

8. What if my loved one wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?

Texas law considers seatbelt non-use in determining damages:

• Comparative Negligence: If seatbelt non-use contributed to injuries, it may reduce recovery
• Wrongful Death: May affect damages if it contributed to the fatality
• Insurance Companies: Will try to use seatbelt non-use to minimize payouts

Important Note: Seatbelt non-use doesn’t create liability for other parties—it only affects the victim’s potential recovery.

9. Can I still recover if my loved one was partially at fault?

Yes, under Texas’s modified comparative negligence system:

• If Less Than 51% at Fault: You can recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault
• If 51% or More at Fault: You cannot recover any damages

Example: If your loved one was 30% at fault for not wearing a seatbelt, your recovery would be reduced by 30%.

10. What should I do if I’m contacted by an insurance company?

If an insurance adjuster contacts you:

• Don’t Give a Recorded Statement: Anything you say can be used against you
• Don’t Sign Anything: Without consulting an attorney
• Don’t Accept the First Offer: Insurance companies often start with lowball offers
• Consult an Attorney: Before making any decisions about your claim

Lupe’s Advice: “Insurance adjusters are trained to minimize claims. They work for the insurance company, not for you. Let us handle the negotiations—we know how to get you what you deserve.”

The Attorney911 Difference: Why Texas Families Trust Us

When tragedy strikes, you need more than just a lawyer—you need a team that will fight for you like family. Here’s what sets Attorney911 apart:

1. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ Years of Experience

Ralph Manginello has been fighting for Texas injury victims since 1998. His experience includes:

• Multi-Million Dollar Verdicts: Securing justice for families devastated by negligence
• Complex Litigation: Handling cases against major corporations and government entities
• Federal Court Experience: Admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas
• Insider Knowledge: Understanding how insurance companies evaluate and minimize claims

Ralph’s Commitment: “I started this firm to help everyday people fight back against powerful interests. When you hire Attorney911, you’re getting a team that will treat your case like it’s our own family’s.”

2. Our Insurance Defense Advantage

Our associate attorney Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance defense firms. This gives us unique insight into:

• How Insurance Companies Evaluate Claims: We know their formulas and strategies
• How Adjusters Are Trained: We recognize their tactics immediately
• What Makes Them Settle: We know when they’re bluffing and when they’ll pay
• How They Minimize Payouts: We counter every tactic they use

Lupe’s Perspective: “I used to work for the other side. I know exactly how insurance companies try to minimize claims—and now I use that knowledge to fight for victims.”

3. Comprehensive Resources

We have the resources to handle complex cases:

• Accident Reconstruction Experts: To determine exactly what happened
• Medical Experts: To document injuries and future care needs
• Economic Experts: To calculate lost earning capacity and other damages
• Investigative Team: To gather evidence and build strong cases

4. Contingency Fee Representation

We work on a contingency fee basis:

• No Upfront Costs: You pay nothing to get started
• No Fee Unless We Win: We only get paid if we recover compensation for you
• We Advance All Costs: We cover investigation and litigation expenses upfront

Ralph’s Promise: “We believe everyone deserves access to justice. That’s why we take cases on contingency—so you can fight back without worrying about legal fees.”

5. Compassionate Client Care

We understand that legal battles are just one part of the healing process. Our team provides:

• Emotional Support: Guidance through the difficult aftermath of tragedy
• Medical Coordination: Helping clients access necessary treatment
• Financial Assistance: Connecting clients with resources to help with immediate needs
• 24/7 Availability: We’re here when you need us

Client Testimonial: “They treated me like FAMILY, not just another case number.” — Chad Harris, Attorney911 Client

6. Proven Results

Our track record speaks for itself:

• $5+ Million: Logging brain injury settlement
• $3.8+ Million: Car accident amputation settlement
• $2+ Million: Maritime back injury settlement
• Millions Recovered: For families in trucking-related wrongful death cases
• $10 Million Lawsuit: Filed in the University of Houston hazing case (active litigation)

Ralph’s Philosophy: “We don’t just settle cases—we fight for justice. When we take a case, we prepare it as if it’s going to trial. That preparation gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures our clients get the compensation they deserve.”

What to Do If You’re Facing a Similar Situation

If you or a loved one has been affected by a tragedy like the SH 349 collision, here’s what you should do:

1. Seek Medical Attention

• Get Checked Out: Even if injuries seem minor, get medical evaluation
• Follow Treatment Plans: Attend all follow-up appointments
• Document Everything: Keep records of all medical visits and expenses

2. Document the Incident

• Take Photos: Of the scene, vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions
• Get Witness Information: Names and contact information for anyone who saw the accident
• Keep Physical Evidence: Don’t repair or dispose of damaged vehicles or property

3. Protect Your Legal Rights

• Don’t Give Statements: To insurance adjusters without consulting an attorney
• Don’t Sign Anything: Without having it reviewed by an attorney
• Preserve Evidence: Send spoliation letters to preserve critical data

4. Contact an Experienced Attorney

• Act Quickly: Evidence disappears fast—don’t wait to protect your rights
• Choose Wisely: Look for attorneys with experience in wrongful death and catastrophic injury cases
• Ask Questions: Understand the attorney’s approach and experience

The Time to Act Is Now

The families affected by the SH 349 tragedy are facing a long road ahead. The legal process can provide compensation and accountability, but it requires quick action to preserve evidence and protect rights.

At Attorney911, we’ve seen how critical the first few days after an accident can be. Evidence disappears, memories fade, and insurance companies move to protect their interests. That’s why we urge Texas families to act quickly when tragedy strikes.

If You Need Help:

• Call Us 24/7: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
• Visit Our Website: https://attorney911.com
• Email Ralph Directly: ralph@atty911.com

Free Consultation: We offer free, no-obligation consultations to help you understand your rights and options.

No Fee Unless We Win: We work on contingency—you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you.

Hablamos Español: Our team includes Spanish-speaking attorneys and staff to serve Texas’s diverse community.

Final Thoughts: Turning Tragedy Into Action

The SH 349 collision is a heartbreaking reminder of how quickly lives can change on Texas highways. While we can’t undo the tragedy, we can:

1. Hold Negligent Parties Accountable: Ensure those responsible face consequences
2. Provide for Affected Families: Secure compensation to help with medical bills and financial security
3. Prevent Future Tragedies: Use this case as a catalyst for improved safety measures

At Attorney911, we’re committed to fighting for Texas families affected by preventable tragedies. Ralph Manginello and our entire team stand ready to help those affected by the SH 349 collision and similar incidents across our state.

Remember: You’re not alone in this fight. We’re here to help you navigate the legal process, hold negligent parties accountable, and secure the compensation you deserve.

Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. The time to act is now—before evidence disappears and your rights are compromised.

Learn more about protecting your rights after a vehicle collision:
– The Victim’s Guide to 18-Wheeler Accident Injuries
– What to Do After a Car Accident?
– The Ultimate Guide to Brain Injury Lawsuits

If you’ve lost a loved one in a vehicle accident, we’re here to help. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today.

Hablamos Español. Llame al 1-888-ATTY-911 para una consulta gratuita.

The trucking company has lawyers working right now to protect them. You deserve the same level of representation. Call Attorney911 at (713) 528-9070.

Don’t let them push you around. We fight back harder. 1-888-288-9911.