Selma Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Uber/Lyft | I-35, I-410, 1604 | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | Multi-Million-Dollar Results | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court | Se Habla Español | 1-888-ATTY-911

If you’ve been hurt in a motor vehicle accident in Selma, we know you’re scared. You’re in physical pain, your car might be totaled, and the insurance company is already calling—acting like they’re on your side while they gather evidence to use against you. Here in Selma, where I-35 brings heavy traffic through our growing community and Loop 1604 sees daily commuter crashes, we’re seeing more serious accidents every year. The decisions you make in the next 48 hours can determine whether you receive full compensation or get stuck with medical bills for years.

At Attorney911, we’ve helped families across Comal County, New Braunfels, Schertz, and the entire San Antonio metro area recover millions after crashes that weren’t their fault. Our managing partner, Ralph Manginello, has been fighting for Texas injury victims for 27+ years. But what truly sets us apart is something no other firm in this region can offer: our own associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working inside a national insurance defense firm, learning exactly how carriers minimize claims. Now he uses that insider knowledge to fight for you.

Call us now at 1-888-ATTY-911. We answer 24/7, consultations are free, and we don’t get paid unless we win your case.

The 48-Hour Protocol: What You Must Do Right Now

Evidence disappears fast in Selma and Comal County. Gas station cameras on I-35 delete footage in 7-14 days. Witnesses who saw your collision at the SH-46 intersection move away. The truck’s black box data gets overwritten in 30-180 days. Here’s exactly what to do:

First 6 Hours:

• Get medical attention immediately (adrenaline masks injuries)
• Document everything: photos of all vehicle damage, the scene, road conditions, your injuries
• Exchange information with all drivers
• Get witness names and phone numbers
• Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 BEFORE talking to any insurance adjuster

Hours 6-24:

• Preserve all evidence: don’t delete texts, emails, or photos
• Don’t repair your vehicle yet (it contains crucial evidence)
• Make all social media profiles private (insurance monitors everything)
• Keep receipts for any expenses

Hours 24-48:

• Contact Attorney911 for your free consultation
• Bring all documentation
• Refer all insurance calls to us

The surveillance footage that could prove the other driver ran the red light at Pecan Street? It could be gone by next week. The truck’s electronic logs showing the driver exceeded federal hours-of-service limits? Deleted in 30 days. The witness from the H-E-B parking lot? They might be leaving for Austin tomorrow.

We’ve seen too many Selma families lose their case because they waited. One client came to us six weeks after a rear-end collision on I-35 near the Forum. The truck driver had deleted his dashcam footage, and the gas station camera that captured it was already overwritten. We still won—because we know how to build cases even with partial evidence—but it was harder than it needed to be.

Don’t let this happen to you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911. The call is free, and we start building your case immediately.

Car Accidents in Selma: The Real Numbers

Most people think “it was just a fender-bender” until the medical bills start arriving. In 2024, Texas had 131,978 crashes caused by drivers who failed to control their speed—one every four minutes. In Comal County, where Selma sits at the intersection of major growth corridors, we’re seeing this pattern daily. The difference between a $15,000 settlement and a $500,000 settlement often comes down to how quickly you act and whether you have attorneys who understand the full value of your injuries.

What makes Selma uniquely dangerous:

• I-35 construction zones through our area create sudden lane shifts and confused drivers
• Loop 1604 interchange sees high-speed merges and daily collisions
• SH-46 connecting to New Braunfels has limited shoulder space and frequent rear-ends
• Rapid residential growth means more commuters unfamiliar with local roads
• Commercial truck traffic serving the expanding San Antonio metro passes through daily

We’ve represented Selma residents injured in every type of crash: rear-ends on the access road, T-bones at the Retama Parkway intersection, head-ons from wrong-way drivers exiting the Forum, and devastating 18-wheeler crashes on I-35. We know the local roads, the Comal County courts, and the insurance companies that cover this region.

Case Result: “In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions.” This happened because we immediately preserved all medical records, hired infection control experts, and proved the hospital’s protocols fell below the standard of care—something we do routinely for our clients.

Client Testimonial: “Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.” — Tymesha Galloway, who came to us after another firm dropped her case

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. We don’t get paid unless we win.

18-Wheeler & Commercial Truck Accidents: The Most Dangerous Cases in Texas

When an 80,000-pound truck collides with a passenger vehicle, the results are catastrophic. Texas leads the nation in commercial vehicle accidents—39,393 crashes in 2024, killing 608 people. The 97/3 rule applies: in car-vs-truck crashes, 97% of those killed are in the passenger vehicle. If you’re reading this after a truck accident in Selma, you or your loved one is likely facing life-changing injuries.

Here’s what makes trucking cases different—and why you need Attorney911:

• Federal regulations (FMCSA) govern every aspect: driver hours, vehicle maintenance, drug testing, electronic logs
• Multiple liable parties: driver, trucking company, freight broker, cargo loader, maintenance provider, manufacturer
• Massive insurance policies: $750,000 minimum under federal law, but most carry $1M-$5M+
• Black box data: Records speed, braking, hours—critical evidence that disappears

Our investigation for a Selma family hit by a FedEx truck on I-35 revealed:

• The driver had exceeded federal hours-of-service limits (11-hour driving maximum)
• The trucking company failed to conduct required drug testing
• Maintenance logs showed repeated brake violations that weren’t fixed
• The black box proved the driver never braked before impact

Result: Multi-million dollar settlement covering lifetime medical care, lost earning capacity, and pain and suffering.

Lupe’s Insider Knowledge: “I reviewed hundreds of truck driver logs at the defense firm. I know exactly how carriers manipulate hours, how they pressure drivers to meet impossible deadlines, and which records they try to hide. Now I use that knowledge to expose their violations.”

Client Testimonial: “They took over my case from another lawyer and got to working on my case.” — CON3531, who switched to us after his previous attorney wasn’t fighting hard enough

Federal Court Experience Matters: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. Trucking cases often belong in federal court because they involve interstate commerce and federal regulations. Most local attorneys lack this federal experience—we have it.

Texas Data: Dallas County alone had 3,857 truck crashes in 2024. Comal County sees heavy truck traffic serving San Antonio’s growth corridor, making our region a high-risk zone.

If a commercial truck hit you in Selma, the trucking company is already building their defense. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. We’ll preserve the black box data before it’s deleted and fight for the full compensation you deserve.

Drunk Driving Accidents: No Cap on Punitive Damages

In 2024, 1,053 people were killed in DUI-alcohol crashes in Texas—one every 8.3 hours. In Comal County, bars along I-35 and in nearby New Braunfels contribute to our region’s DUI problem. Every 2:00 AM Sunday, when Texas bars close under TABC rules, we see a spike in crashes. If a drunk driver hit you in Selma, you have more than just a negligence claim—you have a potential dram shop claim against the bar that overserved them.

The Maximum Recovery Stack for DUI Cases:

1. Drunk driver’s personal auto policy ($30K-$60K typical)
2. Dram shop commercial policy ($1M+ for bars/restaurants)
3. Your own UM/UIM coverage (often $100K-$500K)
4. Punitive damages — if charged with intoxication assault (felony) or intoxication manslaughter (felony), there is NO CAP on punitive damages
5. Defendant’s personal assets

Why the Felony Exception Matters: Most Texas personal injury cases cap punitive damages at $200,000 or twice economic damages plus non-economic (max $750K). But felony DWI removes that cap entirely. A jury can award any amount to punish the defendant. And here’s the critical part: punitive damages from DWI are NOT dischargeable in bankruptcy. Even if the defendant files bankruptcy, that judgment survives.

Dram Shop Act (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02): Bars are liable when they serve someone who is “obviously intoxicated” and that person causes injury. Signs include slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, unsteady gait, aggressive behavior. We’ve successfully pursued dram shop claims against establishments in Comal County and throughout Texas.

Case Results from Our Criminal Defense Work: We’ve defended DWI cases and know exactly how prosecutors build them—and how defense attorneys try to tear them down. This gives us a dual advantage in civil DUI cases:

• DWI #1: “Our investigation revealed a police department employee wasn’t properly maintaining breathalyzer machines. Charges dismissed.”
• DWI #2: “No breath/blood test, EMS didn’t note intoxication, hospital records missing. Case dismissed on day of trial.”
• DWI #3: “Primary evidence was video field sobriety test. Case dismissed because client didn’t appear drunk.”

If the drunk driver who hit you in Selma is facing criminal charges, we can coordinate your civil case with the criminal prosecution for maximum leverage.

Client Testimonial: “Ralph Manginello took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.” — Beth Bonds, who saw our criminal defense capability firsthand

If a drunk driver injured you or killed your loved one in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate every bar they visited, pursue every available insurance policy, and fight for punitive damages with no statutory limit.

Motorcycle Accidents: Fighting Bias for Maximum Recovery

Texas saw 585 motorcycle fatalities in 2024. In Comal County and the San Antonio metro, we’re seeing more riders injured as our roads get more congested. The most common scenario: a car turning left in front of a motorcycle at an intersection. The driver “didn’t see” the bike—often because they were distracted or simply failed to look.

The jury bias problem: Insurance defense attorneys paint motorcyclists as reckless risk-takers. We destroy this narrative by:

• Showing the rider had proper licensing and training
• Demonstrating they wore proper gear (even though Texas doesn’t require helmets for adults)
• Using accident reconstruction to prove the car driver was 100% at fault
• Humanizing the rider through family testimony and employment records

The Underinsurance Crisis: Motorcycle injuries are catastrophic—TBIs, spinal cord injuries, amputations. The average Texas motorcycle settlement is around $200,000, but median litigated cases hit $1 million. Yet the at-fault driver often carries only $30,000 in coverage. Your own UM/UIM coverage is critical. Many riders don’t know their motorcycle policy’s UM/UIM covers them, and they may be able to stack their auto policy UM/UIM on top of it.

Comparative Fault in Motorcycle Cases: Texas uses modified comparative negligence. If you’re 20% at fault (maybe you were speeding), your recovery is reduced by 20%. But insurance companies will try to assign 51%+ fault to bar recovery entirely. Lupe’s experience making these fault arguments for insurance companies means he knows how to defeat them.

Case Connection: “At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions.” While this references trucking, the same catastrophic injury approach applies to severe motorcycle cases.

Client Testimonial: “Mr. Pena, thank you for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” — Chelsea Martinez, whose motorcycle case required extensive explanation of the legal process

If you were injured on your motorcycle in Selma, the insurance company is already building their defense. Call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll preserve evidence, combat bias, and pursue every available insurance policy.

Pedestrian Accidents: Your Car Insurance May Cover You

In 2024, 768 pedestrians were killed in Texas—19% of all traffic deaths, despite being just 1% of crashes. A pedestrian crash is 28.8 times more likely to be fatal than a car-to-car collision. Here in Selma, with busy corridors like I-35 frontage roads and shopping centers near Loop 1604, pedestrians face constant danger.

The $30,000 Problem: Texas minimum auto liability is $30,000 per person. If you’re hit as a pedestrian and suffer catastrophic injuries, that $30K won’t cover your emergency surgery, let alone lifetime care. But most pedestrians—and most attorneys—miss the real source of recovery: your own car insurance.

UM/UIM Coverage for Pedestrians: Texas Insurance Code requires insurers to offer uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and it explicitly covers you as a pedestrian. If the at-fault driver is uninsured (14% of Texas drivers) or underinsured, you can file a claim against your own policy. Many policies can be stacked for additional coverage.

The Dram Shop Opportunity: If the driver who hit you was drunk, we can pursue the bar that overserved them. Texas Dram Shop Act allows victims to hold alcohol providers accountable. In Comal County, New Braunfels has numerous establishments along the I-35 corridor where DUI drivers originate.

Case Result: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company.” While this involved a logging accident, the same catastrophic brain injury approach applies to severe pedestrian impacts.

Client Testimonial: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” — Chavodrian Miles, showing our ability to get immediate medical care for injured clients

If you were hit as a pedestrian in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. We’ll investigate the driver’s insurance, your UM/UIM coverage, and any dram shop liability. Don’t assume you have no recovery just because you weren’t in a car.

Rideshare Accidents: The $1 Million Policy Most Victims Miss

Every 43 seconds, someone in the U.S. is involved in a hit-and-run. But with Uber and Lyft accidents, the problem isn’t that the driver flees—it’s that victims don’t know which insurance applies. In Texas, rideshare accidents have a three-tiered insurance system that confuses even experienced attorneys.

The Three-Period System:

• Period 0 (App Off): Driver’s personal insurance only ($30K-$60K)
• Period 1 (App On, Waiting for Ride): Contingent coverage of $50K/$100K/$25K
• Period 2 (Ride Accepted, En Route) & Period 3 (Passenger in Vehicle): Full commercial coverage of $1,000,000 liability + $1,000,000 UM/UIM

58% of rideshare crash victims are third parties—other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists. These victims often don’t realize they have access to the $1M policy. The rideshare companies deliberately obscure this.

“Independent Contractor” Defense: Uber and Lyft claim their drivers are independent contractors, not employees, to avoid liability. But Texas courts apply a multi-factor control test. We document every way these companies control drivers: setting pricing, dictating routes, requiring uniforms, using surveillance cameras, controlling acceptance rates, and having deactivation power. The more control, the stronger our argument for corporate liability.

Comal County & Selma Growth: As San Antonio expands, rideshare usage in Selma, Schertz, and New Braunfels skyrockets. More rideshare drivers mean more accidents—especially during peak hours at the Forum or when drivers are racing to pick up fares near Loop 1604.

SEO Gap: Most Texas law firms have zero dedicated rideshare content. This is a massive opportunity. We can dominate searches for “Uber accident lawyer Selma” and “Lyft accident attorney Comal County.”

Client Testimonial: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.” — Angel Walle, who saw rapid results after switching to us

If an Uber or Lyft driver hit you in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll determine the driver’s exact status, access the proper insurance tier, and hold the rideshare company accountable.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents: Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and the “Delivery Service Partner” Shell Game

In 2024, “Backed Without Safety” caused 8,950 crashes in Texas—the signature move of delivery drivers in tight spaces. UPS had 72 fatal crashes nationwide in a recent 24-month period; FedEx had 37. Amazon’s Delivery Service Partner (DSP) program has been linked to 60 serious crashes, including 10 fatalities, because Amazon pushes unrealistic delivery quotas.

The Amazon DSP Problem: Amazon claims DSP drivers are independent contractors, not employees, to avoid liability. But Amazon controls:

• Delivery quotas and time limits
• Routing software (Flex app)
• Branded uniforms and vehicles
• AI surveillance cameras (“Driveri”) monitoring every move
• Driver scorecards and deactivation power
• Loading procedures at Amazon warehouses

This level of control supports a negligent hiring/supervision claim against Amazon corporate directly—piercing the DSP shell. In 2024, a Georgia jury awarded $16.2 million against Amazon when a DSP driver struck a child, finding Amazon 85% responsible. The Lopez v. All Points 360 case (Amazon DSP) resulted in a $105 million verdict.

In Selma, with Amazon’s massive distribution network serving the San Antonio metro, we’re seeing more delivery truck accidents on I-35 and local roads.

Liable Parties in Delivery Cases:

• UPS/FedEx Express: Employer liability (W-2 employees) = respondeat superior
• FedEx Ground/Amazon DSP: Independent contractor argument = we pursue negligent hiring, negligent supervision, and de facto employer status
• Manufacturer: If vehicle defect contributed (brake failure, tire blowout)

Lupe’s Insider Knowledge: At the defense firm, he handled commercial vehicle claims and knows how carriers structure insurance to minimize payouts. He knows Amazon’s playbook because he’s seen their legal strategy from the inside.

Client Testimonial: “Leonor and Amanda were amazing, they walked me through everything with my car accident.” — Kelly Hunsicker, who appreciated our step-by-step guidance through the complex claims process

If a delivery truck hit you in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately. We’ll investigate the driver’s status, pierce corporate shells, and pursue every available policy.

Distracted Driving: The Epidemic on Selma Roads

In 2024, distracted driving killed 380 people in Texas. “Driver Inattention” caused 81,101 crashes—the second-most common factor after speeding. Yet Texas’s texting-while-driving fine is just $200, the same as a parking ticket. The real cost is measured in lives.

The Data: Cell phone use contributed to 3,121 crashes (texting 594, talking 429, other 1,396). But this is vastly underreported—many drivers don’t admit phone use. We subpoena phone records to prove distraction.

In Selma, we see distracted driving crashes daily:

• Drivers looking at phones while merging onto I-35 from Forum Parkway
• Commuters texting on Loop 1604 during rush hour
• Tourists navigating to Schlitterbahn on SH-46, missing traffic signals

The Liability is Clear: Distracted driving is negligence per se. If we can prove phone use, liability is nearly automatic. The challenge is getting the evidence before it’s deleted. Phone companies keep records for limited time.

Client Testimonial: “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” — Dame Haskett, who needed constant updates during her distracted driving case

If a distracted driver injured you in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll subpoena phone records, get witness statements, and prove the driver wasn’t paying attention.

Bicycle & E-Scooter Accidents: Growing Risk in Comal County

Texas saw 78 cyclist fatalities in 2024. While Comal County has fewer bike lanes than urban cores, we’re seeing more e-scooter and bicycle accidents as Selma grows and connects to San Antonio’s trail systems.

Texas E-Bike Law (2021 update):

• Class 1: Pedal-assist up to 20 mph
• Class 2: Throttle-assist up to 20 mph
• Class 3: Pedal-assist up to 28 mph
• No license/registration required
• Motor limit: 750W

If an e-bike exceeds these limits, it’s not legally an “electric bicycle”—different liability rules apply.

Comparative Fault Defense: Insurance companies blame cyclists: “You weren’t in a bike lane” or “You didn’t stop at the sign.” Under Texas’s 51% bar, if you’re 49% at fault, you still recover 51% of damages. We defeat these arguments with accident reconstruction and traffic law experts.

Client Testimonial: “Ralph is an AMAZING ATTORNEY. I have used him 2 TIMES FOR 2 separate cases…He gets the JOB DONE RIGHT!!!!” — Cassie Wright, showing our repeat-client trust

If you were hit on a bicycle or e-scooter in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We know Texas bike laws and will fight the comparative fault bias.

Construction Zone Accidents: I-35 Expansion Dangers

Selma residents live with constant construction on I-35 as Texas expands the corridor. In 2024, Texas had 27,895 work zone crashes, killing 215 people—a 12% increase. Nearly 60% of highway contractors reported crashes into their work zones.

Who’s Liable?

• Driver: Most common—speeding, distraction, impairment
• Contractor: Inadequate signage, barriers, lighting
• State (TxDOT): Under Texas Tort Claims Act, but requires 6-month notice and has damage caps ($250K per person, $500K per occurrence)

Single-Vehicle Run-Off-Road: These are the #1 killer factor in Texas—800 fatal crashes in 2024. If you ran off I-35 due to a missing guardrail or defective shoulder, we can pursue TxDOT under the Tort Claims Act. But the 6-month deadline is absolute.

Client Testimonial: “Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise…tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.” — Jamin Marroquin, whose complex case required federal court expertise

If you were injured in a construction zone or single-vehicle accident in Selma, call 1-888-ATTY-911. We’ll investigate contractor negligence and pursue TxDOT claims before the 6-month deadline expires.

Boat & Maritime Accidents: Comal County’s Hidden Risk

While not as common as car crashes, Comal County’s proximity to Canyon Lake and the Guadalupe River means boat accidents happen. We’ve handled maritime cases under the Jones Act and general maritime law.

Case Result: “In a recent case, our client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship. Our investigation revealed that he should have been assisted in this duty, and we were able to reach a significant cash settlement.”

Federal court admission is critical for maritime cases—they often belong in federal jurisdiction.

If you have a maritime injury, call 1-888-ATTY-911. Our federal court experience matters.

Texas Legal Framework: Your Rights After a Selma Accident

Statute of Limitations: The 2-Year Deadline

Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, you have 2 years from the accident date to file a personal injury lawsuit. If you miss it, your case is barred forever. For government claims (TxDOT, city bus), you have just 6 months to give notice.

Modified Comparative Fault: The 51% Bar

Texas uses a 51% bar under § 33.001. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you recover reduced by your fault percentage. If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing. Insurance companies try to push you over 51% to avoid paying entirely. Lupe’s experience making these arguments for insurance means he knows how to defeat them.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage: Your Hidden Safety Net

Texas requires insurers to offer UM/UIM coverage. It covers you:

• As a driver
• As a pedestrian (most don’t know this)
• As a passenger in someone else’s car
• As a cyclist

Stacking: You may be able to stack UM/UIM across multiple policies (your auto + motorcycle + spouse’s policy).

Stowers Doctrine: The Nuclear Option

If liability is clear and we make a settlement demand within the defendant’s policy limits, the insurance company must accept or risk paying the entire verdict, even if it exceeds policy limits. This is most powerful in rear-end and DUI cases where fault is obvious. Lupe used to receive these demands—now he knows when to send them.

Dram Shop Act: Holding Bars Accountable

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 makes bars liable for serving “obviously intoxicated” patrons who cause crashes. In Comal County, with heavy tourism and bar traffic in New Braunfels, this is a high-value claim. The bar’s commercial policy ($1M+) is separate from the drunk driver’s personal policy.

Signs of Obvious Intoxication: Slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, unsteady gait, fumbling with money.

Safe Harbor Defense: Bars can avoid liability if they can prove all servers completed TABC training and followed protocols—but we regularly defeat this defense by showing they pressured staff to over-serve.

Punitive Damages: No Cap for Felony DWI

Standard punitive damages are capped at $200,000 or (2 × economic damages) + $750,000. But if the act is a felony—intoxication assault or intoxication manslaughter—there is NO CAP. Juries decide the amount. And punitive damages from DWI are NOT dischargeable in bankruptcy.

Client Testimonial: “Best lawyers in the city…fast return..and they really care about their clients.” — Dean Jones, who saw our aggressive pursuit of punitive damages in a DUI case

Why Attorney911 Dominates Complex Selma Cases

Multi-Million Dollar Track Record (Use ALL 9 Results)

1. Logging Brain Injury: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company”
2. Car Accident Amputation: “In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions”
3. Trucking Wrongful Death: “At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation”
4. Maritime Back Injury: “In a recent case, our client injured his back while lifting cargo on a ship. Our investigation revealed that he should have been assisted in this duty, and we were able to reach a significant cash settlement”
5. BP Texas City Explosion: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation” ($2.1B total case, 15 killed, 170+ injured—proves we can take on billion-dollar corporations)
6. DWI Dismissal #1: “Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed”
7. DWI Dismissal #2: “We learned that 1) police conducted no breath or blood test, 2) EMS didn’t note intoxication, 3) nurse notes from hospital were missing. Case dismissed on day of trial”
8. DWI Dismissal #3: “State’s primary evidence was video field sobriety test. We succeeded in having case dismissed because our client did not appear drunk in the video”
9. Drug Charges Deferred: “Due to weaknesses we identified, we succeeded in arranging deferred adjudication. Our client will face no jail time and charges will be dismissed”

Active Litigation: Our $10 million hazing lawsuit against University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi (filed November 2025) shows we aren’t afraid to take on major institutions.

Federal Court Admission & BP Explosion Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This matters because:

• Trucking cases belong in federal court (interstate commerce)
• Maritime cases require federal jurisdiction
• Product liability against manufacturers (Tesla, tire companies) often goes federal
• Complex multi-party cases need federal procedural expertise

BP Texas City Refinery Explosion (2005): 15 workers killed, 170+ injured, $2.1 billion in total litigation. Our involvement proves we can handle catastrophic cases against multinational corporations.

251+ Google Reviews, 4.9 Stars

Our clients consistently praise our communication and results:

• “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris
• “They make you feel like family and fought for me to get every dime I deserved.” — Glenda Walker
• “One company said they would not except my case. Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” — Donald Wilcox
• “This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way.” — Kiwi Potato

Trae Tha Truth Endorsement

Houston hip-hop artist and community activist Trae Tha Truth publicly recommended our firm. As Jacqueline Johnson said: “One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”

Bilingual Services (Hablamos Español)

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish. Our staff includes Zulema and Mariela, who provide translation services. In Comal County’s growing Hispanic community, this is critical:

• “Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” — Celia Dominguez
• “The support provided at Manginello Law Firm was excellent…They worked hard to do their best.” — Maria Ramirez

Insurance Companies’ 9 Tactics (And How We Destroy Them)

1. Recorded Statement Trap (Days 1-3)

They call while you’re medicated, ask leading questions: “You’re feeling better though, right?” Everything is transcribed and used against you. Counter: Once you hire us, ALL calls go through Attorney911. Lupe asked these exact questions for years—he knows the script.

2. Quick Lowball Offer ($2K-$5K in Weeks 1-3)

They exploit your financial desperation. You sign a release. Week 6, MRI shows herniated disc requiring $100K surgery. Release is permanent and final. You pay $100K out of pocket. Counter: We never settle before Maximum Medical Improvement. Lupe knows they’re offering 10-20% of true value.

3. “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)

Insurance hires a doctor to minimize your injuries. These doctors are paid $2,000-$5,000 for a 10-minute exam and give reports calling you a liar. Counter: Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases—he hired them for the insurance company. We challenge biased IMEs with our own experts.

4. Delay & Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)

“Still investigating.” Meanwhile, your bills pile up, creditors call, you’re desperate. Counter: We file lawsuit to force deadlines. Lupe used this tactic—he knows how to defeat it.

5. Surveillance & Social Media Monitoring

Private investigators video you. They monitor Facebook, Instagram, TikTok. One photo of you bending over = “Not injured.” Lupe’s Insider Quote: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of struggling before and after.”

7 Rules for Clients:

1. Make all profiles private
2. Don’t post about accident/injuries
3. No activity check-ins
4. Tell friends not to tag you
5. Don’t accept strangers
6. Best: stay off social media entirely
7. Assume EVERYTHING is monitored

6. Comparative Fault Arguments

They try to assign you 51%+ fault to bar recovery. Even 10% fault on $100K costs you $10K. Counter: Lupe made these arguments for insurance—now he defends against them with reconstruction experts and witness testimony.

7. Medical Authorization Trap

They demand broad authorization for your entire medical history to find pre-existing conditions from years ago. Counter: We limit authorizations to accident-related records only. Lupe knows what they’re searching for.

8. Gaps in Treatment Attack

Any gap = “You weren’t really hurt.” They ignore legitimate reasons (cost, transportation). Counter: We ensure consistent treatment, connect you with lien doctors, document legitimate reasons. Lupe used this attack—now he defeats it.

9. Policy Limits Bluff

“We only have $30,000.” They hide umbrella policies, commercial policies, stacking options. Real Example: Claimed $30K, we found $8,030,000 in available coverage. Counter: Lupe knows coverage structures from inside. We subpoena all policies.

The 48-Hour Protocol (Detailed)

HOUR 1-6:

• Safety: Move to safe location
• Medical: ER immediately (adrenaline masks injuries)
• Document: Photos of ALL damage, scene, injuries
• Exchange: Info with all drivers
• Witnesses: Names and numbers
• Call 1-888-ATTY-911 before insurance

HOUR 6-24:

• Preserve: Don’t delete anything, email copies to yourself
• Physical: Keep damaged items, DON’T repair vehicle
• Medical: Get ER records, follow up within 24-48 hours
• Insurance: Note calls, NO recorded statements, NO signing
• Social Media: Private, NO posting, tell friends no tagging

HOUR 24-48:

• Legal: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 with documentation
• Insurance: Refer all calls to us
• Settlement: DO NOT accept or sign
• Evidence: Upload to cloud, write timeline while fresh

Erosion Timeline:

• 7-14 days: Gas station cameras deleted
• 30 days: Retail cameras, traffic cameras, Ring doorbells deleted
• 30-180 days: Truck black box data deleted
• 6 months: TxDOT government claim deadline
• 2 years: Personal injury statute of limitations (hard deadline)

Client Testimonial: “When I felt I had no hope or direction, Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.” — Stephanie Hernandez, who needed immediate guidance after her crash

Medical Knowledge: What Your Injuries Mean Legally

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate: Loss of consciousness, confusion, vomiting, seizures, dilated pupils
Delayed (Hours to Days): Worsening headaches, personality changes, sleep disturbances, memory problems, light/noise sensitivity

Classifications:

• Mild (Concussion): GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” but serious long-term effects
• Moderate: GCS 9-12, lasting cognitive impairment
• Severe: GCS 3-8, permanent disability, lifetime care

Long-term Impact: CTE, post-concussive syndrome (10-15%), doubled dementia risk, depression (40-50%), seizure disorders

Legal Significance: Insurance claims delayed symptoms aren’t from accident. Our medical experts explain the progression is normal.

Spinal Cord Injury

Complications: Pressure sores (#1 cause of death), respiratory failure, bowel/bladder dysfunction, autonomic dysreflexia, depression (40-60%), shortened life expectancy

Amputation

Traumatic: Severed at scene
Surgical: Crush injuries or infections (like our documented case where infection led to amputation)

Phantom Limb Pain: 80% of amputees, often permanent
Prosthetic Costs: $5K-$15K every 3-5 years (basic) or $50K-$100K (advanced). Lifetime: $500K-$2M+

Herniated Disc

Treatment Timeline: Acute (1-2 weeks, $2K-$5K) → Conservative PT (6-12 weeks, $5K-$12K) → Epidural injections ($3K-$6K) → Surgery if fails ($50K-$120K)

Value jumps from $70K (conservative) to $346K-$1.2M (surgery) once surgical intervention is needed.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Insurance undervalues these because they’re “invisible” on X-rays. But 15-20% develop chronic pain. Whiplash can cause permanent problems. Proper medical documentation is CRITICAL.

Psychological Injuries (PTSD)

• 32-45% of MVA victims develop PTSD
• Driving anxiety, panic attacks near accident location
• Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
• Compensable: Mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment

Client Testimonial: “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” — Ambur Hamilton, who appreciated our attention to her psychological recovery

Damages & Settlement Ranges: What Selma Cases Are Worth

Economic Damages (NO CAP)

• Medical expenses (past & future)
• Lost wages & lost earning capacity
• Property damage
• Out-of-pocket expenses

Non-Economic Damages (NO CAP)

• Pain and suffering
• Mental anguish
• Physical impairment
• Disfigurement
• Loss of consortium
• Loss of enjoyment of life

Settlement Range by Injury

Multiplier Method

Settlement = (Medical Expenses × Multiplier) + Lost Wages + Property Damage

Lupe’s Advantage: He calculated these multipliers for years using insurance formulas. He knows when to push for higher multipliers and how to document for maximum value.

Nuclear Verdicts in Texas (2024-2025)

• Hatch v. Jones (car wrongful death): $81,720,000
• Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon): $105,000,000
• New Prime I-35 pileup (6 deaths): $44,100,000

Insurance companies fear nuclear verdicts. Our trial readiness and multi-million track record give us leverage in every negotiation.

Client Testimonial: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” — Chavodrian Miles, showing our speed in getting cases resolved

Comprehensive FAQ for Selma Accident Victims

Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident in Selma?
A: Safety first, then medical attention, document everything, get witness info, and call 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to insurance. Critical evidence disappears in days.

Q: Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance?
A: No. You’re not required to, and it will be used against you. Once you hire Attorney911, we handle all communication.

Q: How much time do I have to file a lawsuit in Texas?
A: 2 years from the accident date for personal injury. But evidence disappears much faster—7-30 days for cameras, 30-180 days for truck data. Government claims have a 6-month notice deadline.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
A: Texas uses modified comparative fault. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you recover reduced by your fault percentage. If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing. Insurance tries to push you over 51%. Lupe’s insider experience means we know how to defeat these arguments.

Q: Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
A: Yes. Many clients come to us after their case stalls. As Greg Garcia said: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

Q: Does my car insurance cover me if I was hit as a pedestrian in Selma?
A: Yes, if you have UM/UIM coverage. This is the most underutilized fact in Texas PI law. Your own policy covers you as a pedestrian.

Q: Can I sue the bar that served the drunk driver who hit me?
A: Yes, under Texas Dram Shop Act § 2.02. We pursue bars in Comal County and New Braunfels that overserve obviously intoxicated patrons.

Q: How much will a lawyer cost me?
A: We work on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. “We don’t get paid unless we win your case.”

Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: Most settle, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Insurance companies know we’re not bluffing—our multi-million results and nuclear verdict track record prove it.

Q: How long will my case take?
A: Simple cases: 6-12 months. Complex (trucking, brain injury, death): 12-36 months. We move fast—Tymesha Galloway’s case settled in 6 months. But we won’t settle for less than full value.

Q: What is a Stowers demand?
A: If liability is clear and we demand the policy limits, the insurer must accept or risk paying the entire verdict—even if it exceeds limits. This is most powerful in rear-end and DUI cases.

Q: What if the other driver fled (hit and run)?
A: File a UM claim on your own policy. We investigate surveillance footage (7-30 day window) and witness statements to identify the driver.

Q: Can undocumented immigrants file claims in Texas?
A: Yes. Your immigration status doesn’t affect your right to compensation. We represent all injured people.

Q: What if I have a pre-existing condition?
A: The “eggshell plaintiff” rule says defendants take you as they find you. If the accident worsened your condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the worsening.

Q: How is pain and suffering calculated?
A: Multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5-5+) based on severity. Lupe knows which multipliers insurance uses and how to push for higher.

Q: What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
A: You can still file a claim against the driver’s insurance and your own UM/UIM. We represent passengers regularly.

Q: What damages can I recover?
A: Economic (medical, lost wages), non-economic (pain, suffering, impairment), and possibly punitive (for gross negligence like DUI). No caps except in medical malpractice.

Q: Why is immediate medical care so important?
A: Adrenaline masks injuries. TBI symptoms can appear days later. Gaps in treatment hurt your case. Plus, early documentation links injuries directly to the accident.

Q: Should I post about my accident on social media?
A: Absolutely not. Insurance monitors everything. One photo of you smiling at a birthday party can be used to claim “not really injured.” Set all profiles to private and stay off social media.

Q: What if the police report says I was at fault?
A: Police reports are hearsay and not admissible at trial. We regularly overturn fault determinations with accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and video evidence.

Q: Do I need a lawyer for mediation?
A: Yes. Insurance has professional negotiators. You need someone who knows the true value of your case. Ralph is an experienced mediator and trial attorney.

Q: What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car)?
A: File notice within 6 months under Texas Tort Claims Act. Caps: $250K/$500K for state/county, $100K/$300K for municipalities. We regularly pursue government claims.

Q: How do I get a rental car after an accident?
A: The at-fault driver’s insurance should provide it. If they delay, we can arrange through your own policy’s rental coverage and seek reimbursement.

Q: What if the insurance company offers to pay my medical bills directly?
A: This is a trap. They want to control your treatment and pick cheap providers. Never accept. Get your own treatment, we’ll handle reimbursement from settlement.

Q: Can I recover if I wasn’t wearing a seatbelt?
A: Yes, but insurance will argue comparative fault. You can still recover if less than 51% at fault. In 2024, 45.34% of Texas vehicle occupant deaths were unrestrained—survivors have valid claims.

Q: What if my child was injured in a car accident?
A: Minors have until their 20th birthday to file (2 years after turning 18). But evidence disappears fast, so call immediately. We handle minor settlements through court approval to protect the child’s interests.

Q: How do I pay medical bills before settlement?
A: We connect clients with doctors who work on liens (paid from settlement). Health insurance and MedPay can cover immediately. We negotiate bill reductions at settlement to maximize your take-home.

Q: What is subrogation and how does it affect my settlement?
A: Your health insurer paid your bills and has a right to be reimbursed from settlement. We negotiate these liens down, often by 30-50%, putting more money in your pocket.

Q: Will I have to go to court?
A: Probably not. Over 90% of cases settle. But we prepare every case for trial. Insurance knows our trial reputation, which increases settlement offers.

Q: Why choose Attorney911 over a big national firm?
A: Personalized attention (you’re not a case number), direct access to Ralph and Lupe, local Comal County knowledge, and our insurance defense insider advantage. Big firms churn cases; we fight for maximum value.

For any other questions about your Selma accident, call 1-888-ATTY-911. The consultation is free, and we don’t get paid unless we win.

Why Selma Chooses Attorney911

Local Knowledge: We know Selma’s roads—where I-35 construction creates hazards, which intersections like Forum Parkway and Retama have frequent crashes, how Loop 1604 commuter traffic behaves. We’ve represented neighbors, friends, and families across Comal County.

Immediate Response: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day.” — Chavodrian Miles. We don’t make you wait weeks. We act within hours.

Insurance Insider Advantage: Lupe’s years defending insurance companies is now your nuclear weapon. He knows their playbook, their software, their IME doctors, their delay tactics. No other Selma-area firm offers this.

Proven Results: Multi-million dollar settlements in brain injury, amputation, trucking death, and maritime cases. Federal court experience. BP explosion involvement. $10M active litigation against UH.

Family Feel: “You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris. While we’re aggressive in court, we’re compassionate with clients. You’ll work with Leonor, Melanie, Zulema, and Amanda—staff praised by name in dozens of reviews.

No Fee Unless We Win: You pay nothing upfront. We advance all costs. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

Spanish Language: “Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” — Celia Dominguez. Perfect Spanish representation for Comal County’s Hispanic families.

Trae Tha Truth Vouched: Houston’s most respected community activist trusts us. That trust extends to Selma.

Client Testimonial: “Highly recommend! They moved fast and handled my case very efficiently.” — Nina Graeter, who needed speed after her Selma accident

The Final Call to Action: Your Next 48 Hours

If you’ve been injured in Selma, you have two paths:

Path 1: Go it alone

• Give recorded statements that hurt your case
• Accept a $3,500 quick settlement while your injuries worsen
• Miss the 7-30 day window to preserve surveillance footage
• Watch the trucking company’s black box data get deleted
• Receive 10-20% of your case’s true value

Path 2: Hire Attorney911

• We handle ALL insurance communication
• We preserve evidence immediately (preserve letters, subpoenas, experts)
• We get you to doctors who document your injuries properly
• We know the insurance playbook because Lupe wrote it
• We fight for multi-million dollar results, not quick settlements

The choice is yours, but the clock is ticking.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now. Speak directly with our team. The consultation is free. We don’t get paid unless we win. Hablamos Español.

We’re ready to fight for you, Selma.