24/7 LIVE STAFF — Compassionate help, any time day or night
CALL NOW 1-888-ATTY-911
Blog | City of Keene

Keene Car & Truck Accident Attorneys | US-67, I-35W & I-35E: 18-Wheelers, Commercial Trucks, Uber/Lyft & Uninsured Motorists | Former Insurance Defense — We Know Their Playbook | $2.5M Recovery | Attorney911 — The Firm Insurers Fear | Federal Court | Se Habla Español | Call 1-888-ATTY-911

March 23, 2026 54 min read
city-of-keene-featured-image.png

Car Accident Lawyer in Keene, Texas | Attorney911 Legal Emergency Lawyers™

If you’ve been hurt in a car accident in Keene, Texas, your world has just been turned upside down. One moment you’re driving down Highway 67 or navigating the streets near Keene High School, and the next you’re dealing with pain, medical bills, and an insurance company that suddenly isn’t as friendly as their commercials promised. We’ve represented families across Johnson County for over 27 years, and we know exactly what you’re going through right now.

Every year, Texas sees more than 550,000 motor vehicle crashes. While Keene is a tight-knit community of about 6,000 people, our location in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex means we share roads with some of the most dangerous highways in America. Interstate 35W runs just west of Keene, and Highway 67 connects us directly to the growing traffic congestion in Cleburne and beyond. In 2024 alone, Johnson County saw hundreds of crashes on these corridors, with many resulting in serious injuries.

You need someone who understands both the local landscape and the complex tactics insurance companies use to minimize your claim. At Attorney911, our firm includes a former insurance defense attorney who spent years learning exactly how these companies undervalue claims. Now we use that insider knowledge to fight for injured people across Keene and throughout Johnson County.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Now — We Answer 24/7, and We Don’t Get Paid Unless We Win Your Case

The Harsh Reality of Car Accidents in Keene and Johnson County

Keene may be a small city, but our accident statistics tell a sobering story. Texas had 4,150 traffic deaths in 2024 — one person killed every 2 hours and 7 minutes. Johnson County, while more rural, faces the same dangers that plague all of Texas: distracted driving, drunk drivers, and commercial trucks using our roads as thoroughfares.

The most dangerous contributing factor statewide? “Failed to Control Speed” caused 131,978 crashes in Texas in 2024, including 513 fatal crashes. That’s one crash every 4 minutes from speeding alone. On roads like Highway 67 where speed limits shift and traffic merges from local streets, this factor becomes even more deadly.

Another silent killer on our roads is driver inattention, which caused 81,101 crashes statewide. When you’re driving through Keene’s residential areas near Hill College or the industrial zones near the railroad tracks, it only takes a moment of distraction to cause a life-altering collision.

What makes these statistics even more alarming is that 90.3% of all Texas crashes occurred in clear or cloudy weather — demolishing the myth that “bad weather causes accidents.” The real danger is driver behavior, and insurance companies know this. That’s why they work so quickly to build a case against you, even when their driver was clearly at fault.

The Insurance Company Is Already Building a Case Against You — Here’s How

Within 24 hours of your accident, the other driver’s insurance company has likely assigned an adjuster to your case. That adjuster has one job: minimize what they pay you. We know this because Lupe Peña, one of our associate attorneys, spent years working for a national defense firm learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.

Tactic #1: The “Friendly” Adjuster Who Wants a Recorded Statement

The adjuster will call you within days — sometimes while you’re still in the hospital at Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Cleburne or Huguley Hospital. They’ll sound concerned. They’ll say they “just need a quick recorded statement to process your claim.”

Here’s what they’re really doing: fishing for anything to use against you. They’ll ask leading questions like, “You’re feeling better though, right?” or “It wasn’t that bad?” Then they’ll transcribe your pain-medicated answers and use them months later to claim you weren’t seriously injured.

Our insider advantage: Lupe asked these exact questions for years. He knows the script. When you hire Attorney911, all calls go through us. We become your shield.

Tactic #2: The Lowball Quick Offer

Insurance companies know you’re vulnerable. You can’t work, bills are piling up, and that $3,500 settlement offer looks tempting. But here’s the trap: once you sign that release, it’s permanent. If you discover two weeks later that you need a $100,000 spine surgery, you’re on your own. That release cannot be undone.

Our insider advantage: Lupe calculated settlement reserves for years using software like Colossus. He knows that $3,500 offer represents 10-20% of your claim’s true value. We don’t let financial pressure force you into a bad decision.

Tactic #3: The “Independent” Medical Exam

Around month three, they’ll send you to their “independent” doctor. This doctor is anything but independent. They’re paid $2,000-$5,000 per exam to produce reports that minimize your injuries. The exam lasts 10-15 minutes, and the conclusion is predetermined: “Pre-existing degenerative changes,” “Treatment excessive,” or “Subjective complaints out of proportion” — medical-speak for calling you a liar.

Our insider advantage: Lupe hired these same IME doctors for years. He knows their biases, their favorite phrases, and which ones are most vulnerable to cross-examination. We prepare you, challenge their credentials, and bring our own medical experts who actually examine you thoroughly.

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

Insurance companies have unlimited time and resources. You have mounting bills and zero income. They’ll delay for months — “Still investigating,” “Waiting for records,” ignoring your calls. By month six, you’re desperate enough to consider that lowball offer.

Our insider advantage: Lupe used these exact delay tactics. He knows the internal approval processes and settlement authority structures. We don’t wait. We file lawsuits to force deadlines and keep your case moving.

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

Private investigators follow you. They monitor your Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn. They use facial recognition and archive services. One photo of you bending over to pick up your child becomes “proof” you’re not injured.

Lupe’s insider quote: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as defense attorney. Insurance companies take innocent activity out of context. They freeze ONE frame of you moving ‘normally’ and ignore the 10 minutes of you struggling before and after. They’re not documenting your life — they’re building ammunition against you.”

Tactic #6: The Medical Authorization Trap

They’ll ask you to sign a “routine” medical authorization. What they don’t tell you is it’s a blanket authorization for your entire medical history. They’ll dig through 10 years of records looking for any pre-existing condition to blame your pain on.

Our insider advantage: Lupe knows exactly what they’re searching for. We limit authorizations to accident-related records only.

Tactic #7: Attacking Gaps in Treatment

Miss one physical therapy appointment because your car broke down? They’ll claim you weren’t really hurt. Insurance doesn’t care about legitimate reasons — they weaponize any gap.

Our insider advantage: Lupe made these arguments for years. We ensure consistent treatment and document every legitimate reason for delays.

Tactic #8: Comparative Fault Arguments

Texas uses modified comparative negligence. If they can pin 51% of fault on you, you get $0. Even 10% fault on a $100,000 claim costs you $10,000.

Our insider advantage: Lupe crafted fault arguments for insurance companies. Now he defeats them using accident reconstruction, witness statements, and expert testimony.

Tactic #9: The Policy Limits Bluff

They’ll say, “Our driver only has $30,000 in coverage.” What they hide: umbrella policies, commercial policies, corporate policies, UM/UIM stacking options, Dram Shop claims, or multiple insurance layers.

Our insider advantage: Lupe understands coverage structures from the inside. Real case: Claimed $30K limit, but we found $30K personal + $1M commercial + $2M umbrella + $5M corporate = $8,030,000 available, not $30,000.

The bottom line: You wouldn’t go to war without intelligence. Don’t fight an insurance company without someone who’s been on their side. Lupe’s insider knowledge is now YOUR unfair advantage.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 Before You Talk to Any Insurance Adjuster

Injured in a Car Accident in Keene? Here’s What You’re Facing — And How We Fight Back

Every type of accident presents unique challenges under Texas law. We tailor our approach based on the specific circumstances of your crash, the injuries you’ve suffered, and the insurance companies involved.

Rear-End Collisions — The “Automatic Liability” Cases

Rear-end collisions are among the most common accidents we see on Highway 67 and in stop-and-go traffic near Keene’s industrial areas. Texas law presumes the trailing driver is at fault (Texas Transportation Code § 545.062), making these cases some of the most defensible — unless the defense can prove you reversed suddenly or made an illegal lane change.

But here’s what insurance companies won’t tell you: many victims initially feel “fine” after a rear-end crash, only to develop herniated discs, cervical radiculopathy, or lumbar injuries requiring epidural injections or spinal fusion months later. A case that might settle for $15,000 in week one can be worth $175,000-$500,000+ once surgery is required.

Our 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 is why we NEVER let clients accept quick settlements before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement.

Keene context: With heavy truck traffic on Highway 67 and increasing congestion from growth in Johnson County, rear-end crashes involving commercial vehicles are becoming more common. Commercial trucks carry $500,000-$1M+ in coverage, dramatically increasing potential recovery.

What our clients say: “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” — MONGO SLADE

What our clients say: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” — Chavodrian Miles

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you’ve been rear-ended in Keene. We don’t get paid unless we win.

T-Bone / Angle Collisions at Intersections

Intersection crashes killed 1,050 people in Texas in 2024. In Johnson County, intersections along Highway 67, FM 2280, and near Cleburne present particular dangers. “Failed to Yield ROW — Turning Left” caused 35,984 crashes statewide, while “Disregard Stop and Go Signal” caused another 20,963.

These crashes are often catastrophic because the side of a vehicle offers far less protection than the front or rear. When a larger vehicle strikes a smaller one in a T-bone configuration, the smaller vehicle’s driver faces up to 100x higher fatal injury risk.

Multiple liable parties: Beyond the at-fault driver, we investigate:

  • Employers (respondeat superior if driver was working)
  • Government entities (TX Tort Claims Act for malfunctioning signals or missing stop signs)
  • Vehicle manufacturers (airbag failure, door latch failure)
  • Dram Shop defendants (if DUI was involved)

Keene-specific factor: With increased development around Keene and expansion in nearby Cleburne, new intersections lack the history and safety studies of older roads. Poor design, inadequate lighting, and missing signage create liability opportunities under the Texas Tort Claims Act.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you were hit in an intersection crash in Keene. Liability is often clear — we make them pay.

Head-On Collisions — The Highest Value Cases

Head-on collisions killed 617 people in Texas in 2024. The fatality rate for “Wrong Side — Not Passing” is 9.9% — nearly 1 in 10 of these crashes is fatal. When DUI is involved (as it is in the majority of wrong-way crashes), the case value increases dramatically.

The “Maximum Recovery Stack” for DUI Head-On in Keene:

  1. Defendant’s auto policy (usually $30K-$60K)
  2. Dram Shop claim against every establishment that served the drunk driver (each has $1M+ commercial policy)
  3. Your own UM/UIM coverage (stacked if available)
  4. Punitive damages — DUI causing serious bodily injury is a felony, which means NO CAP on punitive damages under Texas law
  5. Defendant’s personal assets (abstract of judgment lasts 10 years, renewable)

Punitive damages are NOT dischargeable in bankruptcy when they arise from DWI-related injury. Even if the defendant files bankruptcy, the punitive judgment survives.

Keene context: Rural roads like FM 2280 and FM 3136 near Keene see higher rates of head-on collisions due to driver impairment and fatigue. The 2-lane nature of these roads, combined with 65+ mph speeds, creates deadly force upon impact.

Our case results: We handle both criminal DUI charges (as members of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) and civil recovery. Our three documented DWI dismissals show we understand both sides of these cases.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if a drunk driver hit you head-on in Keene. We’ll pursue every penny from every source.

Pedestrian Accidents — The Hidden Insurance Secret

In 2024, 768 pedestrians died in Texas — one every 11.4 hours. Pedestrians represent just 1% of crashes but 19% of all traffic deaths. A pedestrian crash is 28.8 times more likely to be fatal than a car-to-car collision.

Here’s what most pedestrians (and even most lawyers) don’t know: Your own car insurance policy likely covers you as a pedestrian. UM/UIM coverage applies even when you’re walking. This is the most underutilized fact in Texas personal injury law, and it can be the difference between a $30,000 settlement and a $300,000+ recovery.

Keene-specific dangers: With limited sidewalks in some areas and increasing traffic on Highway 67, pedestrians face particular risks in Keene. Speed limits of 35-40 mph are the deadliest range for pedestrians — just fast enough to cause catastrophic injury, just slow enough that drivers feel comfortable not paying attention.

Our collection strategy for pedestrian cases:

  • At-fault driver’s policy (minimum $30K)
  • Your own UM/UIM (often $100K-$500K+)
  • Dram Shop claim if DUI involved
  • Government entity if road design contributed (missing crosswalks, inadequate lighting)

Case result: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company” — demonstrating our ability to handle catastrophic injury cases.

What our clients say: “Melanie was excellent. She kept me informed and when she said she would call me back, she did.” — Brian Butchee

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you were hit as a pedestrian in Keene. You have more coverage options than you realize.

Motorcycle Accidents — Overcoming Jury Bias

Motorcycle fatalities in Texas reached 585 in 2024. The #1 cause of fatal motorcycle crashes? Cars turning left in front of bikes (42% of fatalities). Speeding is a factor in 32%, alcohol in 30%.

Insurance defense attorneys exploit the “reckless biker” stereotype to reduce settlements. They’ll argue you were speeding, lane splitting, or riding recklessly — even when you were obeying all traffic laws.

Our counter-strategy:

  • Emphasize your clean riding record and safety gear use
  • Humanize you for the jury — you’re a father, mother, worker, community member
  • Frame the crash as the car driver’s failure to see/mindfulness, not your fault
  • Use accident reconstruction to prove speed, position, and visibility

The underinsurance crisis: Motorcycle injuries are almost always catastrophic ($200K-$7M+), but at-fault car drivers typically carry only $30K. Your motorcycle UM/UIM policy is the most critical coverage. We can often stack it with your auto policy UM/UIM for additional coverage.

Keene factor: With scenic country roads like FM 2280 and FM 3136, Keene attracts recreational riders. But these same roads have poor sight lines, wildlife crossings, and impaired drivers. A beautiful ride can turn tragic in seconds.

Texas 51% bar: Even if you’re found partially at fault (not wearing a helmet, minor speeding), you can still recover damages as long as you’re not more than 50% at fault. Insurance companies use this aggressively. Lupe’s experience making these arguments means he now defeats them.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you were injured on your motorcycle in Keene. We understand riders and fight the bias.

Commercial Truck / 18-Wheeler Accidents

Texas leads the nation in truck accidents. In 2024, we had 39,393 commercial vehicle crashes with 608 fatalities. The “97/3 Rule” is stark: In car-vs-truck crashes, 97% of people killed are in the car (2,190 vs 60 in 2023). Car occupants are 36.5x more likely to die.

Why trucking cases are the highest-value claims in Texas PI law:

  • Federal regulations (FMCSA) create strict liability for violations
  • Insurance minimums of $750,000-$5M+ (vs $30K for personal vehicles)
  • Multiple liable parties (driver, carrier, broker, shipper, maintenance provider, manufacturer)
  • Nuclear verdicts are common ($10M-$100M+)

The FMCSA regulations that matter:

  • Hours of Service: Max 11 hours driving after 10 hours off-duty, 14-hour daily limit, 30-minute breaks
  • Electronic Logging Device (ELD) mandate since 2017 — data overwritten in 30-180 days
  • Commercial BAC limit: 0.04% (half normal)
  • Pre-trip inspection requirements
  • Drug testing protocols

Our investigation protocol:

  • Preserve ELD data immediately (preservation letter within 24 hours)
  • Pull driver Qualification File, CSA scores, inspection history
  • Review driver logs for HOS violations
  • Examine maintenance records, black box data, dashcam footage
  • Investigate cargo loading and broker liability

The Deep Pocket Chain:

  1. Driver (minimal personal assets)
  2. Motor carrier ($750K-$5M+ commercial policy)
  3. Freight broker (negligent carrier selection)
  4. Cargo shipper (improper loading)
  5. Maintenance provider (faulty repair)
  6. Vehicle/parts manufacturer (defect)
  7. MCS-90 Endorsement: Federal law guarantees payment to injured parties even if policy would otherwise exclude coverage — the ultimate collection safety net

Case result: “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.”

Keene’s exposure: State Highway 171, Highway 67, and proximity to I-35W mean heavy truck traffic passes through and around Keene constantly. The Cleburne Railroaders industrial area and growth in Johnson County increase commercial vehicle presence on our roads.

Nuclear verdict context: Texas had 130 nuclear verdicts totaling $16 billion from 2013-2022. 2024 saw $31.3 billion nationwide. Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon) = $105M. New Prime I-35 pileup (6 deaths) = $44.1M. Oncor Electric = $37.5M.

What our clients say: “Attorney Manginello is so knowledgeable but straight to the point…responded quickly even while he was away.” — S M

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if a commercial truck hit you in Keene. We have the federal court experience to take on these massive cases.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) — The Underserved Niche

This is quite possibly the most underrepresented area in Texas personal injury law — and one of the most complex. Nationally, rideshare accounts for approximately 987 additional traffic deaths per year. A 2024 UIC study found 1 in 3 rideshare drivers has been in a crash while working.

Why so many firms get this wrong: They don’t understand the three-tier insurance system, the independent contractor vs. employee debate, or how to obtain critical app activity logs.

The three insurance periods:

  • Period 0 (App Off): Personal insurance only ($30K/$60K/$25K) — but most personal policies EXCLUDE commercial use, creating a coverage gap
  • Period 1 (App On, Waiting): Contiguous coverage of $50,000/$100,000/$25,000
  • Period 2 & 3 (Ride Accepted/Passenger Onboard): Full commercial coverage of $1,000,000 liability + $1,000,000 UM/UIM

Who gets hurt: 21% riders, 21% drivers, 58% third parties (other drivers, pedestrians, cyclists). Most third-party victims don’t realize they have access to the $1M policy.

The “de facto employer” argument: While Uber/Lyft classify drivers as independent contractors, Texas courts apply a multi-factor control test. Uber/Lyft control: pricing, routes, acceptance rates, ratings, deactivation, branded vehicles, surveillance cameras. More control = stronger argument for company liability.

Evidence we preserve:

  • App activity logs (discoverable through subpoena to Uber/Lyft legal department)
  • GPS and telematics data
  • Driver status at exact moment of crash
  • Driver history and ratings
  • Company policies and quotas

Keene relevance: With Keene’s proximity to DFW Airport and the growing tourism in Johnson County (Cleburne State Park, attractions), rideshare usage is increasing. Visitors unfamiliar with local roads create additional hazards.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you were hit by a rideshare driver in Keene. We understand this complex area and know how to access the $1M policies.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents (Amazon, FedEx, UPS)

Delivery vehicles are everywhere in our growing region. In Texas, “Backed Without Safety” caused 8,950 crashes — particularly relevant since delivery drivers back up dozens of times per route. In a recent FMCSA period: UPS had 72 fatal + 830 injury crashes; FedEx had 37 fatal + 611 injury crashes.

Why these cases are valuable:

  • Commercial insurance policies ($1M+ typical)
  • Corporate defendants with deep pockets
  • Vicarious liability through respondeat superior
  • Direct negligence for hiring, training, supervision
  • Product liability for defective vehicles/parts

Amazon DSP Strategy: Amazon’s Delivery Service Partner program creates a legal fiction of “independent contractors.” But Amazon controls:

  • Delivery quotas and algorithms
  • Routing software
  • Branded uniforms and vehicles
  • AI surveillance cameras (“Driveri”)
  • Driver scorecards and deactivation power

We document every control element to pierce the independent contractor shield. Recent verdicts show this works: Georgia child struck by Amazon DSP = $16.2M (Amazon 85% responsible), Lopez v. All Points 360 = $105M.

Keene exposure: As e-commerce grows and Johnson County develops, delivery van traffic on residential streets increases. These vehicles are in constant motion, backing up, creating hazards for children, pedestrians, and other drivers.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if a delivery truck hit you in Keene. We know how to hold these corporations accountable.

DUI / Drunk Driving Accidents — No Cap on Punitive Damages

In 2024, drunk drivers killed 1,053 people in Texas — 25.37% of all traffic deaths. A DUI crash happens every 23 minutes. The peak time? 2:00-2:59 AM on Sundays (right after Texas bars close at 2 AM per TABC regulations).

The felony exception for punitive damages: When DUI causes serious bodily injury, it’s charged as Intoxication Assault, a felony. Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 41.008, the standard punitive damages cap does NOT apply to felonies. The jury decides the amount with no statutory limit.

The Maximum Recovery Stack for DUI in Keene:

  1. Drunk driver’s policy
  2. Dram Shop claim against every bar that served them ($1M+ commercial policies)
  3. Your UM/UIM coverage
  4. Uncapped punitive damages (NOT dischargeable in bankruptcy)
  5. Stowers Demand to insurer

Dram Shop Liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02): Bars, restaurants, clubs, and even liquor stores are liable if they served someone who was “obviously intoxicated” and that over-service caused the crash. Signs of obvious intoxication include slurred speech, bloodshot eyes, unsteady gait, impaired coordination, and aggressive behavior.

Keene context: With Cleburne’s nightlife and Highway 67 connecting to Fort Worth, drunk drivers pass through Keene regularly. Every 2 AM DUI crash involves a bar that served the driver — that’s a Dram Shop claim.

Our criminal + civil capability: Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association. We’ve handled countless DUI cases from both sides. Our documented DWI dismissals show we understand the evidence inside and out.

Case results: We have three documented DWI dismissals where we identified technical failures (improper breathalyzer maintenance, missing evidence, video showing no intoxication). This same meticulous approach applies to civil DUI cases.

What our clients say: “Ralph Manginello took his bogus case and had it dismissed within a WEEK! I have been trying for over 2 years.” — Beth Bonds

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately if a drunk driver hit you in Keene. Evidence disappears fast, and we need to preserve Dram Shop evidence NOW.

Hit & Run Accidents — We Find Coverage When Others Can’t

A hit-and-run occurs every 43 seconds in the U.S. In Texas, penalties are severe: death = 2nd degree felony (2-20 years), serious injury = 3rd degree felony. But criminal penalties don’t help you recover compensation.

The UM/UIM secret: Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage pays for hit-and-run accidents. This includes:

  • Your auto policy UM/UIM
  • Your motorcycle policy UM/UIM
  • Your umbrella policy
  • Stacking across multiple household policies

Critical evidence timeline: Surveillance footage is deleted in 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to:

  • Nearby businesses (gas stations, convenience stores, retail)
  • Traffic cameras
  • Ring doorbells and home security systems
  • ATMs with cameras

Keene factor: Small-town hit-and-runs often have witnesses who know the driver. We leverage community connections and conduct thorough witness canvassing.

What our clients say: “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

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 if you were the victim of a hit-and-run in Keene. We know how to find coverage even when the driver fled.

Additional Accident Types We Handle in Keene

Distracted Driving: 380 deaths in Texas 2024. Cell phone use caused 3,121 crashes. Texting while driving is illegal but only carries a $200 fine — the same as a parking ticket. We subpoena phone records to prove distraction.

Tesla/Autopilot: Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to NHTSA. A $240M Miami verdict in August 2025 shows courts are holding Tesla accountable for misrepresenting “Full Self-Driving” capabilities.

Construction Zone: Texas had 28,000 work zone crashes in 2024, killing 215 people. We hold contractors accountable for inadequate signage, barriers, and traffic control.

Bus Accidents: Texas leads the nation with 1,110 bus accidents (17 fatal). Government entity claims have special 6-month notice requirements under the Texas Tort Claims Act.

Bicycle/E-Scooter: 78 cyclists died in Texas 2024. Texas’s 51% bar is used aggressively against cyclists. We fight these bias arguments head-on.

Weather-Related: Here’s a counterintuitive fact: 90.3% of Texas crashes happen in clear/cloudy weather. Rain crashes are less deadly per crash because drivers slow down.

We handle every type of motor vehicle accident in Keene — if your crash isn’t listed here, call 1-888-ATTY-911 anyway. We can help.

Understanding Texas Law — Your Rights After a Keene Car Accident

Statute of Limitations — The 2-Year Deadline

Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Miss this deadline by even one day, and your case is barred forever.

Special deadlines:

  • Government claims (city/county/state vehicle): 6 months to provide formal notice
  • Minors: Deadline is tolled until age 18, then 2 years
  • Hit-and-run: 2 years from accident date (not from when driver is identified)

Why you can’t wait: Evidence disappears daily. Waiting 18 months then calling an attorney means surveillance footage is gone, witnesses have moved, ELD data is deleted, and the insurance company has built an ironclad defense.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately after your Keene accident. We act within hours to preserve evidence and protect your claim.

Modified Comparative Negligence — The 51% Bar

Texas is a modified comparative negligence state (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001). You can recover damages only if you are 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Your Fault Case Value Your Recovery
0% $100,000 $100,000
10% $100,000 $90,000
25% $250,000 $187,500
40% $500,000 $300,000
50% $500,000 $250,000
51% $500,000 $0

Insurance companies ALWAYS try to pin maximum fault on you. Even 10% fault costs you thousands. Lupe’s experience making these arguments for insurance companies means he now knows how to defeat them.

Critical for Keene motorcyclists, bicyclists, and pedestrians: Insurance companies aggressively apply comparative fault to these victims. We fight back with accident reconstruction, witness testimony, and expert analysis.

Punitive Damages — The Felony Exception

Punitive damages punish egregious conduct. Standard cap: Greater of $200,000 or (2x economic damages) + non-economic damages (up to $750K for non-economic).

BUT the felony exception changes everything: If the underlying act is a felony, there is NO CAP. DUI causing serious bodily injury is Intoxication Assault (felony). DUI causing death is Intoxication Manslaughter (felony). The jury decides the amount with no limit.

Additionally: Punitive damages from DWI are NOT dischargeable in bankruptcy (11 U.S.C. § 523(a)(6)). Even if the defendant files bankruptcy, you keep the punitive award.

Tax treatment: Punitive damages ARE taxable as income. Compensatory damages for physical injuries are generally NOT.

In Keene DUI cases, we ALWAYS pursue punitive damages when the facts support it.

Stowers Doctrine — Our Nuclear Option

The Stowers Doctrine (G.A. Stowers Furniture Co. v. American Indem. Co., 15 S.W.2d 544) is the most powerful collection tool in Texas PI law. If we send a settlement demand within the defendant’s policy limits, and the insurer unreasonably refuses, they become liable for the entire verdict — even amounts exceeding policy limits.

Requirements:

  1. Clear liability
  2. Demand within policy limits
  3. Offer of full release
  4. Terms a prudent insurer would accept

This is most powerful in: Rear-end collisions, DUI cases, red-light violations, and commercial vehicle crashes with clear FMCSA violations.

Lupe’s insider advantage: He was on the receiving end of Stowers demands for years. He knows exactly what makes an insurer panic and pay vs. what makes them roll the dice at trial.

Dram Shop Liability — Suing the Bar That Served the Drunk Driver

Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02 lets us sue bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and even liquor stores that served an “obviously intoxicated” person who caused your crash.

Signs of obvious intoxication:

  • Slurred speech
  • Bloodshot/glassy eyes
  • Unsteady gait
  • Impaired coordination
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Difficulty counting money

Keene targeting: With 6,006 population, Keene itself has limited nightlife. But the adjacent Cleburne area and Highway 67 connection to Fort Worth means drunk drivers often pass through our city after being overserved in neighboring towns. We investigate every DUI crash for Dram Shop opportunities.

Safe Harbor Defense: Bars can avoid liability by proving all servers completed TABC training, had no pressure to over-serve, and followed policies. We know how to defeat this defense by showing they ignored their own policies.

The value: Commercial Dram Shop policies are typically $1M+. This is in ADDITION to the drunk driver’s personal policy.

Vicarious Liability & Respondeat Superior

Employers are liable for employee negligence committed within the “course and scope of employment.” This includes:

  • Delivery drivers (Amazon, FedEx, UPS, pizza delivery)
  • Commercial truck drivers
  • Rideshare drivers (arguable, evolving law)
  • Company car drivers
  • Employees running work errands

The “going and coming rule” exemption: Commuting to/from work is generally NOT within course and scope. But exceptions exist for:

  • Sales reps with no fixed office
  • Drivers with take-home company vehicles
  • Special errands for employer
  • Travel-integral jobs

Keene application: With Keene’s proximity to industrial areas and Fort Worth metro, many residents commute or drive company vehicles. We investigate every angle to find employer liability.

Texas Tort Claims Act — Suing the Government

If a government employee (city, county, state) caused your crash, or if dangerous road conditions contributed, we can sue under the Texas Tort Claims Act. Damage caps:

  • State/County: $250,000 per person, $500,000 per occurrence
  • Municipality: $100,000 per person, $300,000 per occurrence

Critical: 6-month notice requirement. Miss it and your claim is barred.

Keene road hazards: Potholes on FM roads, missing guardrails on Highway 67, malfunctioning signals, inadequate construction zone signage — these can create government liability.

UM/UIM Coverage — Your Secret Weapon

Texas Insurance Code § 1952.101 requires insurers to OFFER UM/UIM coverage. Many people don’t realize:

  • It covers you as a pedestrian or cyclist
  • It may stack across multiple household policies
  • It applies to hit-and-run
  • Standard deductible is only $250

We file UM/UIM claims for nearly every serious Keene accident. This is often the PRIMARY source of recovery when the at-fault driver has minimum coverage.

What You Can Recover — Types of Damages in Keene Car Accident Cases

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

  • Medical expenses (past and future): ER visits, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment, home modifications, lifetime care
  • Lost wages (past and future): Income lost from accident through settlement, plus reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your previous occupation
  • Property damage: Vehicle repair/replacement, personal property damaged in crash
  • Out-of-pocket expenses: Transportation to appointments, household help during recovery

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

  • Pain and suffering: Physical pain from injuries, past and future
  • Mental anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, PTSD, sleep disturbances
  • Physical impairment: Loss of function, disability, limitations on daily activities
  • Disfigurement: Scarring, permanent visible injuries
  • Loss of consortium: Impact on marriage, loss of companionship
  • Loss of enjoyment of life: Inability to participate in hobbies and activities you once loved

Punitive Damages — Punishing Egregious Conduct

Available when defendant acted with fraud, malice, or gross negligence. Gross negligence requires:

  1. Objective extreme risk
  2. Subjective awareness of risk
  3. Proceeding anyway with conscious indifference

Common scenarios in Keene:

  • Drunk driving (especially felony DUI)
  • Extreme speeding (100+ mph)
  • Known vehicle defects
  • Trucking company HOS violations with known fatigued driver

Felony exception = NO CAP. We pursue punitive damages aggressively in appropriate cases.

Settlement Ranges by Injury Severity

Injury Type Typical Settlement
Soft tissue (whiplash) $15,000-$60,000
Simple fracture $35,000-$95,000
Surgical fracture $132,000-$328,000
Herniated disc with surgery $346,000-$1,205,000
Moderate-severe TBI $1,548,000-$9,838,000
Spinal cord injury/paralysis $4,770,000-$25,880,000
Wrongful death (working adult) $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Multiplier method: Settlement = (Medical expenses × multiplier 1.5-5) + lost wages + property damage. Lupe’s insider knowledge of Colossus software means we know how to present your case for maximum multiplier.

What our clients say: “Tracey White: She had received a offer but she told me to give her one more week because she knew she could get a better offer.” This is how we think — maximum recovery, never quick settlements.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case valuation. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, which maximizes settlement value.

The 48-Hour Protocol: What Keene Accident Victims Must Do Immediately

HOUR 1-6 (CRISIS MODE):

  1. Safety first — Get to a safe location off Highway 67 or the crash scene
  2. Call 911 — Report the accident, request medical response
  3. Get medical attention — Go to ER even if you feel “fine” (Huguley Hospital in Cleburne or Texas Health Harris Methodist). Adrenaline masks injuries; some symptoms appear days later
  4. Document everything — Photos of ALL vehicles (every angle), scene, skid marks, road conditions, injuries, messages
  5. Exchange information — Name, phone, address, insurance card, driver’s license, license plate, vehicle details
  6. Witnesses — Get names and phone numbers; ask what they saw
  7. CALL ATTORNEY911: 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to ANY insurance company

HOUR 6-24 (EVIDENCE PRESERVATION):

  1. Backup all digital evidence — Email photos to yourself, preserve text messages, don’t delete ANYTHING
  2. Secure physical evidence — Keep damaged clothing, glasses, personal items; DON’T repair your vehicle yet
  3. Medical records — Request ER discharge papers; follow up with primary doctor within 24-48 hours
  4. Insurance contact — If they call, say: “I need to speak with my attorney. Please direct all communication to Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911.” DO NOT give recorded statement. DO NOT sign anything.
  5. Social media — Make ALL profiles private immediately; DO NOT post about accident, injuries, or activities; tell friends not to tag you
  6. Take notes — Write a detailed timeline of what happened while memory is fresh

HOUR 24-48 (STRATEGIC PROTECTION):

  1. Legal consultation — Meet with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña. Bring all documentation
  2. Refer all insurance calls to us
  3. Do NOT accept or sign any settlement offer — Not even “just to cover medical bills”
  4. Backup evidence — Store copies in cloud storage

Evidence Disappears Fast:

  • 7-14 days: Gas station surveillance footage deleted
  • 30 days: Retail store footage, Ring doorbell video, traffic camera footage — GONE FOREVER
  • 30-180 days: Truck ELD/black box data overwritten
  • Months: Witnesses move, memories fade, vehicles get repaired destroying evidence

Our immediate action: Within 24 hours of hiring us, we send preservation letters to ALL parties: other driver’s insurance, trucking companies, businesses with surveillance, employers, government entities, rideshare companies, vehicle manufacturers. These letters legally REQUIRE them to preserve evidence before automatic deletion.

What our clients say: “Leonor and Amanda were amazing, they walked me through everything with my car accident.” — Kelly Hunsicker

What our clients say: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” — Chad Harris

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 within 48 hours of your Keene accident. Waiting costs you money.

Understanding Your Injuries — Medical Knowledge That Protects Your Claim

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) — The Invisible Catastrophe

Even “mild” TBIs (concussions) can have lifelong consequences. Immediate symptoms include loss of consciousness (even seconds), confusion, vomiting, severe headache. But delayed symptoms are what insurance exploits: worsening headaches days later, personality changes, sleep disturbances, memory problems, light/noise sensitivity.

Long-term impacts: Post-concussive syndrome (10-15% of victims), doubled dementia risk, 40-50% develop depression, seizure disorders, permanent cognitive impairment.

Legal danger: Insurance claims delayed symptoms aren’t from the accident. Our medical experts explain that TBI progression is normal and document the causal connection.

Case result: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company.”

Spinal Cord Injuries — Lifetime Costs

Injury Level Lifetime Cost
High cervical (C1-C4) $6M-$13M+
Low cervical (C5-C8) $3.7M-$6.1M+
Paraplegia (T1-L5) $2.5M-$5.25M+

Complications: Pressure sores, respiratory failure (leading cause of death), bowel/bladder dysfunction, autonomic dysreflexia, depression (40-60%), shortened life expectancy (5-15 years).

Herniated Discs — The Escalating Injury

What starts as “back pain” can progress to herniated discs requiring surgery. Treatment timeline:

  • Acute phase: $2K-$5K
  • Conservative PT: $5K-$12K
  • Epidural injections: $3K-$6K
  • Surgery: $50K-$120K
  • Future treatment/lost earning capacity: $50K-$400K+

Settlement value: Conservative treatment $70K-$171K. With surgery: $346K-$1.2M+. This is why quick settlements are devastating — you don’t know you need surgery until months later.

Amputations — Surgical vs. Traumatic

Our 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.”

Phantom limb pain: Affects 80% of amputees, often permanent and severe.
Prosthetic costs: $5K-$15K basic every 3-5 years; $50K-$100K advanced computerized every 3-5 years. Lifetime: $500K-$2M+.

Psychological Injuries (PTSD)

32-45% of serious accident victims develop PTSD symptoms:

  • Driving anxiety and panic attacks
  • Nightmares and flashbacks
  • Avoidance of accident location
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Depression and anxiety

These are compensable as mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.

What our clients say: “Stephanie Hernandez: 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.”

Call 1-888-ATTY-911. We understand the full scope of your injuries, not just the visible ones.

Why Attorney911 is the Right Choice for Keene Accident Victims

Ralph Manginello — 27+ Years of Proven Results

Born in New York but raised in Houston’s Memorial area from age 5, Ralph is a Texan through and through. He graduated from the University of Texas at Austin with a B.A. in Journalism (giving him storytelling skills that win trials) and South Texas College of Law Houston. Licensed since 1998 — 27+ years of practice.

Federal Court Admission: Both Ralph and Lupe are admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This matters because:

  • Complex trucking cases often belong in federal court
  • Multi-state defendants require federal jurisdiction
  • Federal court experience demonstrates capability with sophisticated litigation

BP Texas City Refinery Explosion: Ralph is one of the few Texas attorneys to be involved in this $2.1 billion litigation (15 killed, 180+ injured). This proves we can handle catastrophic cases against multinational corporations.

Professional recognition: Trial Lawyers Achievement Association Million Dollar Member (requires $1M+ verdicts), Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Houston Bar Association, Pro Bono College of the State Bar of Texas.

Community involvement: Big Brothers/Big Sisters volunteer, 290+ educational videos published, host of Attorney 911 The Podcast.

What our clients say: “Ralph has kept me up to date on the case, checked in on me.” — Manraj

What our clients say: “Ralph is an AMAZING ATTORNEY. I have used him 2 TIMES FOR 2 separate cases…He gets the JOB DONE RIGHT!!!!” — Cassie Wright

Lupe Peña — The Insurance Defense Insider

Lupe is a third-generation Texan with family roots to the historic King Ranch. Raised in Sugar Land, he understands Texas values and community. Licensed since 2012 with 13+ years of experience.

The nuclear advantage: “Lupe Peña worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims.” He knows:

  • Claim valuation software (Colossus) and how to beat it
  • IME doctor selection and biases
  • Surveillance and investigation methods
  • Settlement authority structures and approval processes
  • Reserve setting psychology
  • Stowers demand strategy from the inside

Now he uses that knowledge FOR Keene accident victims, not against them.

Federal court admission: Handles complex commercial and maritime litigation. Fluent in Spanish, serving Keene’s Hispanic community.

What our clients say: “Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.” — Chelsea Martinez

Multi-Million Dollar Results — Not Promises, Proof

We don’t talk about “fighting for the compensation you deserve” — we show you actual results:

  1. Multi-million dollar settlement for brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on client at logging company
  2. Multi-million dollar settlement for leg injury requiring partial amputation due to staff infections during treatment
  3. Millions recovered in trucking wrongful death cases for numerous families
  4. Significant cash settlement for maritime back injury — investigation revealed employer negligence in requiring solo lifting
  5. $10 million hazing lawsuit against University of Houston (November 2025) — shows we take on major institutions
  6. Three documented DWI dismissals based on technical failures and missing evidence
  7. Drug charges deferred adjudication saving client from 5-99 years in prison

Cases Others Reject, We Accept

Multiple reviews show our willingness to take cases dropped by other attorneys:

Greg Garcia: “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

CON3531: “They took over my case from another lawyer and got to working on my case.”

Angel Walle: “They solved in a couple of months what others did nothing about in two years.”

Federal Court Experience — Ready for Complex Cases

Most Keene car accidents settle. But when they don’t — or when the defendant is a major corporation with national presence — federal court jurisdiction applies. Our federal court admission to the Southern District of Texas means we can handle:

  • Interstate trucking cases (FMCSA violations)
  • Maritime and offshore injuries (Jones Act)
  • Product liability against national manufacturers
  • Multi-defendant catastrophic injury cases

The BP explosion litigation ($2.1B total) proves we have the resources, expertise, and stamina for massive cases against Fortune 500 companies.

We Speak Your Language — Hablamos Español

Johnson County’s Hispanic population is growing, and language barriers shouldn’t prevent access to justice. Luque Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members like Zulema who provide translation services.

What our Spanish-speaking clients say:
“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

Celebrity Endorsement — Trae Tha Truth Trusts Us

Houston hip-hop artist and community activist Trae Tha Truth publicly recommended Attorney911. When someone with Trae’s community credibility vouches for us, you know we’re the real deal.

Jacqueline Johnson: “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.”

4.9 Stars — 251+ Google Reviews

Our reputation speaks for itself. Clients consistently praise:

  • Communication and responsiveness
  • Personal involvement from Ralph
  • Speed of resolution (many cases settled in 6 months)
  • Treatment like family, not case numbers
  • Taking cases others rejected

What our clients say: “Best lawyers in the city…fast return..and they really care about their clients.” — Dean Jones

What our clients say: “This place feels like having a family over your case. And communication with you every step of the way. That’s how you know you’re in good hands.” — Kiwi Potato

No Fee Unless We Win — Contingency Fee Structure

We work on contingency: 33.33% if settled before filing lawsuit, 40% if trial is necessary. You pay $0 upfront. We advance all case costs. If we don’t recover money for you, you owe us nothing.

Important: You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses if we win, but these come from your settlement, not your pocket upfront.

What this means for Keene families: You get 27+ years of experience, federal court capability, insurance insider knowledge, and multi-million dollar results with ZERO financial risk.

Comprehensive FAQ for Keene Accident Victims

Q: What should I do immediately after a car accident in Keene, Texas?
A: First, ensure safety and call 911. Get medical attention even if you feel fine — injuries can be masked by adrenaline. Document everything: photos of damage, scene, injuries. Exchange information but don’t admit fault. Get witness names. Most importantly, call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 before speaking to any insurance company. Evidence disappears fast in Johnson County — we need to act within hours, not days.

Q: Should I give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance?
A: Absolutely not. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask leading questions like “You’re feeling better though?” while you’re on pain medication. Everything you say will be used to minimize your claim. Once you hire us, all communication goes through Attorney911. Lupe Peña spent years taking these statements for insurance companies — he knows their script and stops them from using it against you.

Q: How long do I have to file a lawsuit after an accident in Keene?
A: Texas law gives you 2 years from the accident date (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003). However, if a government vehicle is involved (city, county, state), you only have 6 months to provide formal notice. Waiting hurts your case — surveillance footage is deleted in 7-30 days, witnesses move, and the insurance company builds their defense. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately.

Q: What if I was partially at fault for the Keene accident?
A: Texas uses modified comparative negligence. You can recover damages as long as you’re 50% or less at fault, but your award is reduced by your percentage. Even 10% fault on a $100,000 claim costs you $10,000. Insurance companies ALWAYS try to pin maximum fault on you. Lupe’s experience making these arguments for insurers gives us the insider knowledge to defeat them.

Q: How much is my Keene car accident case worth?
A: Value depends on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and pain/suffering. Soft tissue cases: $15K-$60K. Surgery cases: $346K-$1.2M. Catastrophic injuries: $1.5M-$25M+. Our case results include multi-million dollar settlements for amputations and brain injuries. We’ll evaluate your case for free and give you an honest assessment.

Q: What if the other driver was drunk? Can I sue the bar that served them?
A: Yes! Under the Texas Dram Shop Act, if a bar served someone “obviously intoxicated” who then caused your crash, the bar is liable. We pursue both the driver and the establishment. Drunk driving causing serious injury is a felony, which means NO CAP on punitive damages. Every 2 AM DUI crash in Keene involves a bar that over-served — we’ll find it and hold them accountable.

Q: Will my case go to trial?
A: Over 90% of cases settle, but we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. Why? Because insurance companies know we’re not bluffing. Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission and involvement in the $2.1B BP explosion litigation proves we have the resources and skill for complex trials. This preparation maximizes settlement value. Most of our cases settle within 6 months for excellent value.

Q: How much do you charge?
A: We work on contingency: 33.33% if settled before filing a lawsuit, 40% if trial is necessary. You pay $0 upfront. If we don’t recover money for you, you owe us nothing. However, you may be responsible for court costs and case expenses if we win.

Q: What if I was hit by an 18-wheeler on Highway 67 near Keene?
A: Trucking cases are our specialty. We immediately preserve ELD/black box data (deleted in 30-180 days), investigate FMCSA violations, and pursue the entire Deep Pocket Chain: driver, carrier, broker, shipper, maintenance provider, manufacturer. Federal regulations make these cases highly defensible. Our case results include millions recovered for trucking wrongful death cases.

Q: What if the truck driver was from out of state?
A: This is where our federal court admission matters. The case may belong in federal court due to diversity jurisdiction. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, which handles cases from Johnson County. We’ve litigated against national carriers and know how to navigate multi-state issues.

Q: My car was hit by an Amazon delivery van in Keene. Who is liable?
A: This is complex and evolving law. Amazon claims DSPs (Delivery Service Partners) are “independent contractors,” but we document Amazon’s control: quotas, routing, uniforms, cameras, deactivation power. Recent verdicts show Amazon can be held liable: Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon) = $105M. We know how to pierce the contractor shield.

Q: Can I recover damages if I was hit as a pedestrian in Keene?
A: Absolutely. Most pedestrians don’t realize their OWN car insurance covers them through UM/UIM coverage. We also pursue the at-fault driver’s policy, Dram Shop claims if DUI, and government entity claims if dangerous road design contributed. Pedestrian cases are 28.8x more likely to be fatal — we treat them with the gravity they deserve.

Q: What if I was in an Uber/Lyft accident in Keene?
A: Rideshare cases depend on the driver’s status at the moment of crash:

  • App off: Personal insurance only
  • App on, waiting: $50K/$100K/$25K contingent coverage
  • Ride accepted or passenger onboard: $1,000,000 commercial policy

We obtain app activity logs through subpoena to determine exact status. This is a highly technical area most firms mishandle.

Q: How long will my case take to settle?
A: Most cases resolve within 6 months. Factors affecting timeline: severity of injuries, liability disputes, insurance company tactics, whether litigation is necessary. We’ve settled cases in as little as 6 weeks and have taken cases to trial when insurance refused to be reasonable. We balance speed with maximizing value.

Q: What if another law firm dropped my case?
A: We regularly accept cases other attorneys reject. 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.” CON3531 added: “They took over my case from another lawyer and got to working on my case.” Don’t assume your case is dead — let us evaluate it.

Q: Do you speak Spanish?
A: Yes! Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes bilingual team members like Zulema who provide translation services. Johnson County’s Hispanic community deserves representation without language barriers. Hablamos Español.

Q: What if my injuries seemed minor at first but got worse?
A: This happens constantly. Adrenaline masks pain; some injuries (herniated discs, TBI, internal bleeding) have delayed onset. Never settle before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement. We’ve had clients who thought they had minor back pain discover they needed $100,000 spine surgery months later. If you settled early, you’d be out of pocket. We wait until your condition is stable to demand full compensation.

Q: Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current one?
A: Absolutely. Your attorney works for YOU. If they’re not communicating, not fighting for you, or pushing you to accept a low offer, fire them. We’ll take over your case and get it back on track. Many clients come to us after being ignored by settlement mills.

Q: How do I pay for medical treatment while waiting for settlement?
A: We connect you with medical providers who work on liens (they get paid from settlement). You get treatment with $0 out-of-pocket. We also use your PIP and MedPay coverage. Our case managers like Leonor coordinate everything so you can focus on healing.

Q: What if I have a pre-existing condition?
A: The “eggshell plaintiff” doctrine says defendants “take you as they find you.” If a prior back condition was made worse by the crash, you’re entitled to full compensation for the worsening. Insurance companies love to blame pre-existing conditions. We bring in medical experts to prove the accident caused the aggravation.

Q: Should I post about my accident on social media?
A: NO. Insurance companies monitor everything. One photo of you at a family BBQ (even if you were in pain the whole time) becomes “proof” you’re not injured. Best: stay off social media entirely until case resolves. Rule #5 from our 48-hour protocol: Make profiles private, don’t post, don’t accept strangers, assume everything is monitored.

Q: What if the accident happened on a Johnson County road with a pothole or missing guardrail?
A: You may have a claim against the government entity under the Texas Tort Claims Act. However, you ONLY have 6 months to provide notice. These cases are capped at $100K-$250K per person, but valuable. We investigate road design, maintenance records, and prior complaints.

Q: Will I have to go to court?
A: Probably not. Over 90% settle. But we’ll prepare as if we’re going to trial. This preparation is what maximizes your settlement. If the insurance company refuses to be reasonable, Ralph’s federal court experience and 27+ years of trial readiness means we’re not bluffing. They know it.

Q: Do you handle wrongful death cases from Keene accidents?
A: Yes. Wrongful death beneficiaries (spouse, children, parents) can recover for loss of companionship, financial support, and mental anguish. Survival actions recover what the deceased would have recovered if they lived (medical bills, pain before death). We handle these with compassion and determination.

Q: How is Attorney911 different from other Johnson County law firms?
A: Five key differences:

  1. Lupe’s insurance defense background — classified intelligence no other firm has
  2. Federal court experience — BP explosion, catastrophic injury capability
  3. Multi-million dollar track record — proven results, not promises
  4. Former clients are family — communication, personal attention, staff praised by name
  5. Data-driven approach — we cite actual TxDOT statistics that competitors ignore

Q: What if I can’t come to your Houston office?
A: We come to you. For Keene clients, we’ll meet in Johnson County, at your home, or by video conference. We regularly handle cases throughout Texas from our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont offices. Distance is no barrier to excellent representation.

Q: Can undocumented immigrants file accident claims in Texas?
A: Yes. Your immigration status does not affect your right to compensation for injuries caused by someone else’s negligence. We represent all members of the Keene community regardless of status. Don’t let fear prevent you from seeking justice.

Q: How do I get started?
A: Call 1-888-ATTY-911 or email ralph@atty911.com. We’ll schedule a free consultation, review your case, explain your options, and help you understand the path forward. No obligation. Hablamos Español. We’re here 24/7 because legal emergencies don’t wait.

Call Attorney911 Today — Your Keene Legal Emergency Lawyers™

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Keene, Texas, you have a choice. You can face the insurance company alone, hoping they’re “on your side” (they’re not). You can hire a settlement mill that processes volume over quality (you’ll be lost in the shuffle). Or you can hire Attorney911 — a firm with 27+ years of proven results, a former insurance defense attorney who knows their playbook, federal court experience, and a track record of multi-million dollar recoveries.

The evidence is disappearing. The insurance company is building their case. Every day you wait reduces your leverage.

Here’s what happens when you call 1-888-ATTY-911:

  1. You speak to a live person, not an answering service
  2. We preserve critical evidence within 24 hours
  3. We become your shield against insurance tactics
  4. We coordinate your medical treatment (zero out-of-pocket)
  5. We prepare your case for maximum value
  6. We fight for every dollar you deserve

We serve Keene and all of Johnson County from our Houston office, but we regularly travel to meet clients throughout Texas. Distance is no barrier to excellent representation.

Ralph Manginello (ralph@atty911.com, 713-528-9070) has recovered millions for Texas families and is one of the few attorneys involved in the $2.1B BP explosion litigation.

Lupe Peña (lupe@atty911.com) spent years working for insurance defense firms. Now he uses that insider knowledge to protect Keene families.

Office Locations:

  • Houston: 1177 West Loop S, Suite 1600, Houston, TX 77027 (Primary)
  • Austin: Serving Travis, Williamson, Hays, Bastrop
  • Beaumont: Serving Jefferson, Orange, Hardin (Golden Triangle)

Hablamos Español. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Legal emergencies don’t wait. Neither should you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 now.

Share this article:

Need Legal Help?

Free consultation. No fee unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911

Ready to Fight for Your Rights?

Free consultation. No upfront costs. We don't get paid unless we win your case.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911