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Afai na e aafia ai po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fa’alavelave tau taavale afi i Amerika Samoa, e masani lava ona lofituina, fenumia’i, ma tumu i le le mautonu le auala agai i luma. Matou te malamalama i le tiga faaletino, le fa’anoanoa fa’alagona, ma popolega tau tupe e ono o’o mai pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i. O le mafua’aga lea ua i ai le Attorney911 e ta’ita’ia oe i laasaga uma o le ala, e le gata i le ofoina atu o tomai fa’apitoa fa’aletulafono ae fa’apea fo’i ma le lagolago mautu e te mana’omia i se taimi faigata. Faatasi ai ma le silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani, o Ralph Manginello o lo’o ta’ita’ia la matou vaega fa’apitoa, o lo’o tau mo tagata o Amerika Samoa ma Texas atoa ina ia mautinoa ua puipuia a latou aia tatau ma latou maua le taui e tatau ai.

I le Attorney911, matou te talitonu afai o lo’o e feagai ma se fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i fa’aletulafono, e te mana’omia vave se gaioiga ma le maumaua’i. Pe na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave tau taavale i se tasi o auala o Amerika Samoa po’o se fa’alavelave sili atu ona faigata ma se taavale fa’apisinisi, o la matou laina fa’afuase’i i le 1-888-ATTY-911 o lo’o avanoa 24/7. Ua matou sauni e tu’uina atu le tali fa’anatinati fa’aletulafono e mafai ona faia ai se eseesega tele i le fa’asaoina o fa’amaoniga taua ma le fausiaina o se mataupu malosi mai le aso muamua. O la matou tautinoga o le taulimaina oe pei o se aiga, ia mautinoa e te le lagona lava e pei o se isi faila mataupu.

La Tatou Folafolaga i Tagata o Amerika Samoa: Matou te Malamalama i Lou Fa’alavelave Fa’afuase’i

Pe a tupu se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, e mafai ona liliu vave lou olaga. Mai le mulimuli mai o le feteenaiga i le faagasologa umi o togafitiga faafoma’i ma le toe faaleleia, e tele fesili e ono tula’i mai: “O ai o le a totogi a’u pili faafoma’i?” “E faapefea ona ou lagolagoina lo’u aiga pe afai e le mafai ona ou galue?” “E mafai ona ou talitonu i le kamupani inisiua?” O popolega talafeagai ia, ma ua matou i ai iinei e tu’uina atu ni tali manino ma le agaalofa.

Ua matou tu’uina atu o matou olaga i le fesoasoani atu i tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave e fa’afeiloa’i i nei vai vevesi. O lo matou fa’avae, o Ralph Manginello, o se loia fa’amasino poto masani ma le taliaina i le fa’amasinoga feterale i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, na te aumaia le kuata seneturi o le poto masani i fa’amasinoga. Ua matou taulimaina mataupu e amata mai i manu’a laiti i fa’alavelave leaga e aofia ai manu’a fai’ai ma tipi ese vaega o le tino, ma maua ai le tele o miliona tala mo a matou tagata.

O lo matou tulaga fa’apitoa e sau mai lo matou malamalama loloto i le fa’agaoioiga o kamupani inisiua. Na fa’aalu e le Loia Lagolago o Lupe Peña ni tausaga i le isi itu, o lo’o galue mo se kamupani puipuia a le atunu’u. Na te iloa a latou togafiti, a latou polokalama, ma a latou fuafuaga mo le fa’aitiitia o tupe totogi ona na ia fa’aaogaina lava. O lea la, o lena malamalama i totonu o lou avanoa le talafeagai lea e faasaga i kamupani lava ia o lo’o taumafai e fa’afitia oe i le fa’amasinoga tonu.

Aua le faatagaina le kamupani inisiua e fa’atonu lou lumana’i. Afai na e manu’a po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, fa’afeso’ota’i vave i matou. Vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911, ma ia matou tu’uina atu lo matou poto masani, o matou malamalama, ma lo matou tautinoga faifai pea i le fa’amasinoga tonu e galulue mo oe. Matou te ofoina atu fautuaga fua, ma matou te galulue i luga o le totogifuapau – o lona uiga e te le totogia se tupe ia matou se’i vagana ua matou manumalo i lau mataupu.

Attorney911: Lau Tali Fa’anatinati Fa’aletulafono Fa’atuatuaina i Amerika Samoa

I le Attorney911, o se igoa fa’apisinisi o le The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, matou te mitamita i le tu’uina atu o se lagolago fa’aletulafono atoatoa ma le maumaua’i mo tagata manu’a i fa’alavelave tau taavale afi i Amerika Samoa ma le tele o Texas. Faatasi ai ma a’a o lo’o loloto i totonu o Texas, o lo matou ofisa ua fausia i luga o se fa’avae o fa’ai’uga fa’amaonia, malamalama fa’alotoifale, ma le le fa’amaoni o le lagolago a tagata fa’atau. O Ralph Manginello, o lo matou paaga fa’atonu, o lo’o fa’ataua le tulafono mo le silia ma le 25 tausaga, ma fa’atuina ai se igoa mo le ma’umau ma le tuuto e to’aitiiti e mafai ona fa’atusalia.

Na amata le malaga a Ralph ina ua mae’a lona J.D. mai South Texas College of Law Houston. Na taliaina i le Texas State Bar i le 1998, o lona galuega sa fa’ailogaina i se sailiga le fa’amemelo mo le fa’amasinoga tonu mo ana tagata fa’atau. O lona poto masani e sili atu nai lo fa’amasinoga setete, fa’atasi ai ma le taliaina i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, e mafai ai ona matou taulimaina mataupu feterale lavelave e le mafai e le tele o kamupani. O lenei taliaina i le fa’amasinoga feterale, fa’atasi ai ma le a’afia o la matou kamupani i fa’amasinoga tetele a le atunu’u e pei o le fa’amasinoga o le pa o le BP, e fa’aalia ai lo matou agava’a e fa’ato’ilalo kamupani tetele ma maua ai i’uga e tele miliona tala.

Fa’afeiloa’i La Matou Au Fa’apitoa

O lo matou malosi i le Attorney911 e sau mai agava’a eseese ma fa’apitoa o la matou ‘au:

• Ralph Manginello, Pa’aga Pule: Faatasi ai ma le silia ma le 25 tausaga i fa’amasinoga, e le na o se loia Ralph; o ia o se loia malosi. Na tausia i le vaega o Memorial i Houston, o le malamalama loloto o Ralph i le si’osi’omaga i le lotoifale, mai ona alatele i ona potu fa’amasinoga, e taua tele. O lona sui auai i le HCCLA (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) o lona uiga e mafai ona matou fa’atautaia lelei mataupu e aofia ai moliaga fa’ale-sivil ma moliaga tau solitulafono, e pei o fa’alavelave i le ta’avale ‘ona i Amerika Samoa. E viia e tagata fa’atau e pei o Jamin Marroquin le ta’ita’iga a Ralph, ma fai mai, “Na ta’ita’ia a’u e Mr. Manginello i le faagasologa atoa ma le poto masani tele… ma’umau, faigofie ona a’oina, ma na maumaua’i i le 19 masina atoa.” O lenei a’afia patino e mautinoa ai e manuia mataupu uma mai lona malamalama fa’ata’ita’i ma lona tuuto.

• Lupe Peña, Loia Lagolago: O Lupe o la matou aupega faalilolilo, ma aumaia se avanoa e le mafaatusalia i a matou tagata o loo faaaogaina auaunaga. A o lei auai i le Attorney911, na faaalu e Lupe ni nai tausaga i se ofisa o le puipuiga a le atunuu, lea na ia aoaoina ai muamua totonu o galuega o kamupani inisiua tetele. E pei ona matou taʻua, e iloa e Lupe a latou tulafono atoa:

  • Na te malamalama i a latou auala e faatatau ai tulaga tau, e aofia ai le polokalama faaeletonika lauiloa o Colossus.
  • Na te masani i a latou fausaga o pulega mo feagaiga ma auala e faatuai ai.
  • Na te iloa tonu le ala latou te filifilia ai fomai o le IME (Independent Medical Examination) e faaitiitia ai tulaga tau.
  • Ua ia iloiloina le tele o ata mataʻituina ma faʻasalalauga lautele o se loia mo le puipuiga. O lona malamalama o se mea taua pe a taumafai kamupani inisiua e faaaoga sese na faamaoniga. E pei ona fai mai Lupe lava ia, “Ua ou iloiloina le selau ma selau o ata mataʻituina ma pou faʻasalalauga lautele o se loia mo le puipuiga. O le mea moni lenei: E ave e kamupani inisiua gaoioiga mama mai le tulaga masani. Latou te maluluina se ata tasi o oe o gaoioia “masani” ma le amanaiaina le 10 minute o oe o tauivi aʻo leʻi ma pe a uma. Latou te le o tusia lou olaga – latou te o loʻo fausia ni mea e fana ai oe.”

  O le malamalama i totonu o Lupe e mafai ai ona matou faʻamoemoe i a latou gaioiga, tetee atu i a latou fuafuaga, ma tau mo le taui sili mo tagata afaina i Amerika Samoa. O Lupe foi o se Texan tupulaga lona tolu ma e matua gagana Sipaniolo, faʻamautinoa o le gagana e le o se faʻalavelave i le faamasinoga tonu mo a matou tagata faʻatau gagana Sipaniolo. E pei ona fai mai le tagata faʻatau Chelsea Martinez, “Faʻafetai faʻapitoa i loʻu loia, Mr. Pena, mo lou agalelei ma lou onosai i aʻu fesili faifai pea.”

La Tatou Fa’amaumauga Fa’amaonia: O Fa’ai’uga e Tele Miliona Tala e Fa’aali Mai ai Lo Latou Fa’amaoni

O la matou tautinoga i a matou tagata fa’atau i Amerika Samoa o lo’o atagia mai i la matou fa’amaumauga tumau o le manuia. Matou te le na’o le talanoa e uiga i le tau mo le fa’amasinoga tonu; matou te maua.

• Manu’a fai’ai fafie: Ua matou maua se “Miliona miliona tala o le taui mo le tagata fa’atau na maua i se manu’a fai’ai ma le fa’aletonu o le vaai ina ua pa’u se ogalaau ia te ia i se kamupani fafie.” O lo’o fa’amanino mai ai lo matou agava’a e taulimaina mataupu o manu’a leaga e faasaga i kamupani tetele. Na suia tele o latou olaga i se taimi vave, ma matou tauivi malosi ina ia mautinoa ua lava a latou punaoa mo se olaga atoa o le tausiga.
• Tofi Ta’avale Ti’pese: I se mataupu faigata tele, “I se mataupu lata mai nei, na manu’a le vae o le matou tagata i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale. O manu’a pipisi i le taimi o togafitiga na o’o atu ai i se tipi ese laititi. Na fa’amauina lenei mataupu i le tele o miliona.” O le i’uga lenei e fa’aalia ai lo matou lagolago malosi pe a suia le olaga o se tagata fa’atau ona o se manu’a tuga ma fa’afitauli mulimuli ane, ma mautinoa ai latou te maua tupe mo prosthetics i le lumana’i, togafitiga, ma le leiloa o le malosi e maua ai tupe.
• Maliu Sese i Ta’avale Tipi: “I le Attorney911, ua fesoasoani a matou loia o manu’a patino i le tele o tagata manu’a ma aiga o lo’o feagai ma mataupu o maliu sese e feso’ota’i ma ta’avale e maua ai le tele o miliona tala i le taui.” O mataupu nei e matua faigata lava, ma matou te aumaia uma a matou poto masani i le fa’amasinoga feterale ma punaoa e fa’asalaina kamupani ta’avale le fa’aeteete.
• Manu’a tua i le sami: “I se mataupu lata mai, na manu’a le tua o le matou kalani a o sii faamalosi uta i luga o se vaa. Ua faaalia i la matou suesuega e semanu e fesoasoani atu lava o ia i lenei galuega, ma na mafai ona matou maua se taui tele.” O lenei taunuuga e faaalia ai la matou tomai suesue ma le filiga i siosiomaga lavelave o le gataifale, ma mautinoa ai e faataunuu e tagata e ana galuega a latou tiute o le tausiga.
• Fa’amasinoga pa o le BP: Na “se tasi o nai ofisa loia i Texas na a’afia i fa’amasinoga pa o le BP.” O lenei poto masani e fa’amaonia ai lo matou agava’a e taumafai mataupu tetele e faasaga i kamupani e piliona tala le tau, ma fa’atautaia lu’itau fa’aletulafono ma fa’asaienitisi lavelave.

O lo’o iai fo’i sa matou fa’amaumauga malosi i tagata puipuia i solitulafono, e masani ona fealoa’i ma fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi e aofia ai moliaga tuga e pei o le UIA (Ua Inu ‘Amuia). O lo matou agava’a e maua ai fa’amavaega UIA pe a le lelei ona tausia masini e siaki ai le ‘ava malosi, misi fa’amaumauga a tausima’i na fa’aalia, po’o fa’amaoniga ata na fete’ena’i ma tu’ua’iga a le setete, o lo’o atagia mai ai se auala ma’oti i fa’amaoniga ma se malamalama loloto i faiga fa’aletulafono e manuia ai a matou kalani uma. O lo’o matou tuliloaina pea se tagi e $10,000,000 e faasaga i le Iunivesite o Houston ma le Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, o lo’o fa’aalia ai lo matou sauniuni e fa’ato’ilalo fa’alapotopotoga tetele pe a mana’omia e le fa’amasinoga tonu.

Le Mea o Fai Mai ai a Tatou Tagata Fa’atau: Lagolago Le Mavae ma I’uga Silisili

O la matou silia ma le 250 fa’amatalaga fautuaina e 5-stara ile Google e fa’ailoa mai ai le tulaga lelei tumau o auaunaga ma i’uga lelei matou te tu’uina atu. O Chad Harris na fa’amatala manino la matou faiga: “E te le o se fa’afitauli ia i latou ma e te le na’o se tagata fa’atau…O oe o le AIGA ia i latou.” O lenei lagona o lo’o toe ta’ua e le to’atele o isi:

• Ambur Hamilton na ta’ua, “Ou te le’i lagona lava o a’u o ‘na’o se isi mataupu’ o lo’o latou galulue ai.”
• Na viia e Dame Haskett la matou feso’ota’iga, ma fa’apea, “Feso’ota’iga tumau ma leai se taimi na ou vala’au ai ma le maua se tali manino…na aapa atu Ralph lava ia.”
• Na fa’amatala e Donald Wilcox lona poto masani ina ua le mana’o se isi ofisa e talia lona mataupu, “Ona ou maua lea o le telefoni mai Manginello…Na ou maua se telefoni e sau e aumai lenei siaki matagofie.”
• Na fa’aalia e Glenda Walker, “Latou te fa’alogona oe e pei o se aiga ma e tusa lava pe alu se taimi le fa’agasologa, latou te fa’alogona ai e pei o se agi o le matagi. Na latou tauivi mo a’u e maua uma tupe e tatau ai.”
• Na fa’amatala e Kiimarii Yup se togafitiga ofoofogia: “Na leiloa uma mea…na matua leai lava la’u taavale ma ona o Loia Manginello ma la’u tagata faigaluega o Leonor…1 tausaga mulimuli ane ua ou maua tele mea i le totogi fa’atasi ai ma se taavale pikapi fou.”
• O la matou aufaigaluega fa’apitoa, e aofia ai Leonor, Melanie, Amanda, ma Zulema, e masani ona maua le tele o viiga sa’o mai tagata fa’atau, e fa’amautu ai la matou tautinoga i le tausiga fa’apitoa. E pei ona fa’amatala e Stephanie Hernandez, “Ina ua ou lagona ua leai se fa’amoemoe po’o se ta’iala, na aapa mai Leonor ia te a’u…Na ia aveesea uma le mamafa o o’u popolega mai o’u tauau.”

E oo lava i tagata lauiloa e pei o Trae Tha Truth na te iloa le tautinoga a lo matou ofisa i le faamasinoga tonu i Houston, ma fai mai Jacqueline Johnson, “O se tasi o Ali’i Silisili o Houston o Trae Tha Truth na fautuaina lenei ofisa loia. Afai o loo ia tautino atu mo i latou, ona ou iloa ai lea o loo ia faia se galuega lelei.”

A Tatou Punaoa mo A’oa’oina: Fa’amalosia Oe i le Malamalama

Matou te talitonu o tagata fa’atau malamalama o ni tagata fa’atau fa’amalosia. O le mafua’aga lea matou te ofoina atu ai punaoa a’oa’oga lautele, e aofia ai:

• La Matou Ala YouTube: Faatasi ai ma le silia ma le 200 vitio, o la matou ala (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) o lo’o aofia ai autu taua e pei o le “O le a le Taui Talafeagai mo le Ma’i ma le Mafatia?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LG07vbB4cdU) ma le “O le a le Fa’agasologa mo se Tagiga o Manu’aga Tuma’oti?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneVVs).
• Attorney 911 Le Podcast: Fa’atautaia e Ralph Manginello, o la matou podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/bj/podcast/attorney-911/id1773141988) e tu’uina atu ai “Mataupu moni o le olaga, malamalama taua, ma fautuaga aoga e mafai ona e fa’aaogaina i le asō. Ua o’o i le taimi e atamamai ai, e pei o se loia.”

Matou te tu’uina atu nei punaoa ona o lo’o matou tu’uto’atasi i le fesoasoani atu i so’o se tasi na manu’a i Amerika Samoa, pe o latou avea ma a matou tagata fa’atau pe leai. A e sauni e talanoa i lou tulaga fa’apitoa, ua matou i ai iinei. Vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua, e leai se noataga. Matou te le totogia se’i vagana ua matou manumalo i lau mataupu.

Ituaiga Fa’alavelave Tau Ta’avale Afi: Fa’atautaia Fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa

O auala o Amerika Samoa, pe o alatele pisi po’o auala filemu i le lotoifale, e mafai ona vave avea ma nofoaga o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi e suia ai le olaga. Mai le la’ititi o le fa’au’au o le uili i le fa’alavelave sili ona leaga, o fa’alavelave ta’itasi e iai ona fa’afitauli fa’aletulafono fa’apitoa, e mana’omia ni auala fa’apitoa e su’esu’e ai, ma e mana’omia ai se malamalama loloto i le tulafono o Texas. I le Attorney911, matou te taulimaina ituaiga uma o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa ma Texas atoa. O la matou ‘au poto masani, o lo’o ta’ita’ia e Ralph Manginello, e fa’atautaia mataupu uma ma le fa’aeteete ma le lagolago malosi e mana’omia e maua ai le fa’amasinoga tonu.

O le tulaga fa’apitoa o la matou kamupani, fa’afetai i le fa’amatalaga mai le vaega na tu’uina atu e Lupe Peña, o lona uiga matou te malamalama lelei i le auala o le a taumafai ai kamupani inisiua e fa’aitiitia lou tagi, tusa lava po’o le a le ituaiga fa’alavelave. Ua matou toe maua le tele o miliona mo tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave ma ua sauni e tau mo oe.

Ta’avale Ti’eti’e i Amerika Samoa

Ose Fa’alavelave Fa’afuase’i i Auala o Amerika Samoa: Malamalama i Tulaga Leaga o Fa’alavelave Tau Ta’avale

O fa’alavelave tau ta’avale o se mea moni fa’anoanoa i auala o Texas, ma e leai se tuusaunoaga a Amerika Samoa. O nei fa’alavelave e mafai ona amata mai i ni fa’au’au la’itiiti i ni fa’alavelave leaga e tele ni ta’avale, ma masani lava ona tu’ua ai i lataga o fa’alavelave ni fa’afitauli tuga fa’aletino, fa’alagona, ma fa’aletupe. I le tausaga lava ia o le 2024, na va’aia e Texas le 251,977 tagata na manu’a i fa’alavelave tau ta’avale, ma tasi le fa’alavelave e tupu i le 57 sekone ma tasi le tagata e manu’a i le 2 minute ma le 5 sekone. E sili atu i le 4,150 maliu i le setete atoa. O nei fuainumera o lo’o fa’amamafaina ai le lamatiaga tumau o lo’o feagai ma aveta’avale ma pasese i Amerika Samoa.

Mo le silia ma le 25 tausaga, sa avea Ralph Manginello ma fautua le fa’amavae mo i latou na manu’a i fa’alavelave tau ta’avale, ma aumai ana poto masani i fa’amasinoga, e aofia ai le taliaina i le fa’amasinoga feterale i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, i mataupu uma. Matou te malamalama i lu’itau fa’apitoa o lo’o feagai ma tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave tau ta’avale i Amerika Samoa, mai le taulimaina o leoleo i le lotoifale i le fa’atautaia o fa’afitauli o lo latou fa’amalologa fa’afoma’i.

Mafuaaga masani o Faalavelave Tau Taavale i Amerika Samoa:

O fa’alavelave tau ta’avale, pe i alatele tetele po’o auala laiti i Amerika Samoa, e masani ona mafua mai i amioga le fa’aeteete a le aveta’avale. Matou te masani ona va’ai i mataupu e afua mai:

• Fa’alavelave i le Ta’avale: E ui o lo’o fa’ateleina le silafia, o le fa’alavelave i le ta’avale o lo’o tumau pea o se mafua’aga autu o fa’alavelave, ma o lo’o mafua ai le 380 maliu i Texas i le 2024. E aofia ai le tusitala, talanoa i le telefoni, ‘ai, po’o le fa’aogaina o tekinolosi i totonu o le ta’avale.
• Saosaoa: O le sili atu i le tapula’a saoasaoa po’o le aveina o le ta’avale i se saoasaoa tele mo tulaga o le a’afia o le a fa’aitiitia ai le taimi e tali atu ai ma fa’ateleina ai le malosi o le fa’asiga, ma o’o atu ai i manu’aga tuga i fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa.
• Le Tu’uina Atu o le Ala: O le soli o tulafono o le aia tatau i nofoaga e felavasa’i ai po’o le suia o auala e mafai ona o’o atu ai i fa’alavelave mata’utia i le itu o le ta’avale po’o le fa’afeagai.
• Le Solia o Moli Mumu/Fa’ailoga Taofi: O le le amana’ia o fa’ailoga o le ta’avale o se gaioiga le fa’aeteete e masani ona i’u ai i fa’alavelave tuga.
• Mulimuli Vavae Tele: O le le mulimuli vavae tele e fa’aitiitia ai le malosi e taofi ai ma le saogalemu, ma e masani ona mafua ai fa’alavelave i le pito i tua.
• UIA/UIA (Ua Inu ‘Amuia / Ua Inu ‘Afaina): O le aveina o le ta’avale pe a uma ona inu ‘ava malosi po’o fualaau fa’asaina e matua fa’aletonu ai le fa’amasinoga ma le taimi e tali atu ai, ma o’o atu ai i fa’alavelave leaga.

Manu’aga masani mai Fa’alavelave Tau Ta’avale:

O fa’alavelave tau ta’avale i Amerika Samoa e mafai ona o’o atu ai i le tele o manu’aga eseese, o nisi o ia manu’aga atonu e le vave iloa:

• Whiplash ma Manu’aga Vaivai o A’ano: E masani ona maua i fa’alavelave i tua, e a’afia ai le ua, tua, ma isi maso.
• Herniated Discs: O le fa’aleagaina o le spinal discs e mafai ona o’o atu ai i le tiga tuga o le tua ma le ua, ma e masani ona mana’omia ai togafitiga fa’afoma’i umi.
• Fa’amoega Leai ma Gau: O malosi o le fa’asiga e mafai ona o’o atu ai i gau i vae, ivi ‘asu, po’o le ulupo’o, ma mana’omia ai le fa’amamauina, ta’otoga, po’o le fa’amalolo umi.
• Manu’aga Fai’ai Mata’utia (TBI): E o’o lava i se fa’asiga la’itiiti e mafai ona o’o atu ai i concussions po’o ni TBI tuga, ma o’o atu ai i lu’itau umi tau le mafaufau ma le fa’alagona.
• Manu’aga o le Ua: O nei manu’aga leaga e mafai ona o’o atu ai i le fa’aletonu atoa po’o le vaega o le tino, ma suia ai le olaga o le tagata manu’a e fa’avavau.
• Fa’aleagaina o Totoga i Totonu o le Tino: O fa’asiga malosi e mafai ona mafua ai le toto i totonu po’o le fa’aleagaina o totoga i totonu o le tino, ma mana’omia ai se ta’otoga fa’afuase’i.

Ua matou molimauina muamua le leaga tele o nei manu’aga. I se mataupu lata mai, “na manu’a le vae o le matou tagata i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale. O manu’a pipisi i le taimi o togafitiga na o’o atu ai i se tipi ese laitiiti. Na fa’amauina lenei mataupu i le tele o miliona.” O lenei i’uga e tele miliona tala o lo’o fa’amamafaina ai la matou tautinoga e tau mo le taui sili mo a matou tagata, ma mautinoa ai latou te maua punaoa tau tupe mo le tausiga i le olaga atoa.

Fa’amaoniaina o le Nofoaga ma le Fa’aeteete i Inisiua i Amerika Samoa:

O Texas o se setete “e sese”, o lona uiga e nafa le aveta’avale le fa’aeteete mo fa’aleagaina. Ae ui i lea, e fa’aaoga fo’i e Texas le tulafono o le “fa’atusatusaina o le le fa’aeteete” (le tulafono 51% bar). O lona uiga afai e fa’amaonia e te 51% pe sili atu fo’i le sese, e te le maua se mea. E fa’aaoga malosi e kamupani inisiua lenei tulafono e fa’aitiitia ai a latou totogi. O le mea lea e aoga ai le tulaga fa’apitoa o le Attorney911. O tausaga o Lupe Peña o se loia o le puipuiga o inisiua o lona uiga matou te malamalama lelei i le auala latou te taumafai ai e tu’ua’ia ma fa’aitiitia lau tagi. Matou te iloa a latou togafiti ona na ia fa’aaogaina. O lea la, matou te fa’aaogaina lena malamalama e puipui ai oe i Amerika Samoa.

Pe o se fa’alavelave la’itiiti i tua po’o se fa’asiga tele, matou te aoina ma le fa’aeteete fa’amaoniga, e aofia ai lipoti a leoleo, fa’amatalaga a molimau, toe fa’aleleia o le fa’alavelave, ma fa’amaumauga fa’afoma’i. Matou te fa’ato’ilalo kamupani inisiua, ma fa’atautaia feso’ota’iga uma ina ia mafai ona e taula’i atu i le toe fa’aleleia. E pei ona fa’ailoa mai e le kalani o MONGO SLADE, “Na ou fa’apu’upu’u i tua ma sa galue le ‘au…Na ou maua fo’i se taui matagofie tele.” Ma mo i latou o lo’o popole i le fa’atuai o togafitiga, na viia e Chavodrian Miles lo matou lelei: “Na fa’aulu a’u e Leonor i le foma’i i le aso lava lea…na o le 6 masina na ofoofogia ai.”

Afai na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale i Amerika Samoa, aua le fa’amama le tagata fa’avasega inisiua na’o oe. E taua tele lou lumana’i. Fa’afeso’ota’i le Attorney911 mo se fautuaga fua. Vala’au matou 24/7 i le 1-888-ATTY-911. Matou te le totogia se’i vagana ua matou manumalo i lau mataupu.

Fa’alavelave i Le 18-Uili & Ta’avale Tipi i Amerika Samoa

Le Fa’amata’u tele i Alatele Tetele o Amerika Samoa

E to’aitiiti fa’alavelave e sili atu ona leaga nai lo fa’alavelave e aofia ai le 18-uili po’o isi ta’avale fa’apisinisi tetele. O le tele tele o le mamafa – o se ta’avale e 80,000 pauna fa’atusatusa i se ta’avale pasese e 4,000 pauna – o lona uiga o tagata o ta’avale laiti e masani ona maua manu’aga leaga po’o le leiloa o o latou ola. Faatasi ai ma alatele tetele o lo’o feso’ota’i ai Amerika Samoa ma le tele o nofoaga, e masani ona a’afia tagata o lo’o nonofo ai i tulaga lamatia e afua mai i feoaiga o ta’avale fa’apisinisi. I le tausaga e 2024, na o Texas lava na va’aia le 39,393 fa’alavelave o ta’avale afi fa’apisinisi, ma o’o atu ai i le 608 maliu o ta’avale tetele ma le 1,601 manu’aga tuga. O le mea fa’anoanoa, o Texas e 11% o uma fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i o ta’avale tetele i le atunu’u, ma o lea ua avea ai ma se vaega taua e mana’omia ai le popole.

I le Attorney911, o lo’o iai lo matou poto masani tele i le fai ma sui o tagata afaina i nei fa’alavelave mata’utia i Amerika Samoa ma le setete atoa. O lo’o iai i lo matou ofisa, o lo’o ta’ita’ia e Ralph Manginello, se fa’amaumauga fa’amaonia, e aofia ai le tele o miliona tala o lo’o toe maua i mataupu e afua mai i le maliu sese i ta’avale tetele. Matou te malamalama i tulafono feterale lavelave e pulea ai le alamanuia o ta’avale tetele ma o lo’o iai le taliaina i le fa’amasinoga feterale i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, e mana’omia e fa’atautaia ai nei mataupu e masani ona tetele.

Fa’atautaia le Labyrinth of Trucking Regulations:

O fa’alavelave i ta’avale tetele e sili atu ona lavelave nai lo fa’alavelave i ta’avale ona o le tele o tulafono feterale ma setete o lo’o fa’aaoga. O le Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) o lo’o fa’atuina ni tulafono malolosi mo aveta’avale ta’avale tetele ma kamupani ta’avale tetele, e aofia ai:

• Itula o Le Auaunaga (HOS): Fa’atapula’a i le umi e mafai ai e se aveta’avale ona fa’aoga se ta’avale e puipuia ai le vaivai. E mafai ona ave e aveta’avale le tele o le 11 itula pe a mae’a le 10 itula fa’asolosolo o malolo ma le mafai ona ave atu i tua atu o le itula lona 14 pe a amata galue. E mana’omia se malologa mo le 30 minute pe a mae’a le 8 itula fa’atasi o le aveina o le ta’avale.
• Masini Logi Fa’aeletoroni (ELDs): E fa’amalosia mo le tusia o HOS, o nei masini e siaki fa’amatalaga taua e pei o itula o le afi, gaioiga o le ta’avale, ma maila na aveina. O lenei fa’amaumauga o se fa’amaoniga taua, ae e mafai ona toe tusia pe tape i totonu o le 30-180 aso.
• Tulaga agava’a o Aveta’avale: Tulaga malolosi mo Laisene Aveta’avale Faa-Fa’apisinisi (CDLs), tusi pasi fa’afoma’i, su’esu’ega o tala’aga, ma su’ega atoatoa o vaila’au ma le ‘ava malosi. O le tapula’a o le BAC (Blood Alcohol Content) mo aveta’avale fa’apisinisi o le 0.04%, o le afa lea o le aveta’avale masani.
• Tausiga o Ta’avale: Tulafono mo su’esu’ega a’o le’i malaga, polokalama o le tausiga, ma tulaga fa’apitoa mo taofi ma pa’u ta’avale.

O le solia o tulafono a le FMCSA e mafai ona fa’atuina le “fa’aleaogaina o le tagiga,” ma fa’amalosia ai le mataupu a le tagata manu’a. Ae ui i lea, o le mauaina o lenei fa’amaoniga e mana’omia ai vave se gaioiga.

Tele Itu E Nafa & Tulaga Sili Atu:

E le pei o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi masani, e masani ona a’afia ai le tele o itu i fa’alavelave o lo’o a’afia ai ta’avale tetele, o itu ta’itasi e iai a latou lava inisiua, ma o’o atu ai i se taui e sili atu ona maualuga. E mafai ona aofia ai:

• Le Aveta’avale o le Ta’avale Tetele: Mo le le fa’aeteete o le fa’aogaina (e pei o le saoasaoa tele, fa’alavelave i le ave, po’o le vaivai).
• Le Kamupani Ta’avale Tetele: Mo le fa’aagaga le fa’aeteete, a’oa’oga, va’ava’ai, po’o le tausiga.
• Le Tagata Utaina o le Ututa’avale: Afai o le utaina le talafeagai na mafua ai le uta le mautu po’o le suia o le mamafa.
• Le Faufale o le Ta’avale Tetele: Mo vaega fa’aletonu po’o fa’aletonu le masini.
• Kamupani Tausi: Afai e le lelei le toe fa’aleleia.

O vaega fa’aopoopo uma e nafa e masani ona fa’apea o lo’o iai inisiua fa’aopoopo, e masani lava ma tapula’a e $1,000,000 pe sili atu, fa’atusatusa i le $30,000 le maualalo mo se ta’avale patino. O le mafua’aga lea e taua tele ai lo matou poto masani, e aofia ai le a’afia o lo matou ofisa i fa’amasinoga pa o le BP, lea e fa’aalia ai lo matou agava’a e fa’ato’ilalo kamupani tetele, mo tagata o lo’o a’afia i Amerika Samoa.

Le Malosiaga o se “Fa’ai’uga Fa’atama’i”:

O kamupani inisiua mo kamupani taavale tetele e matua latou le iloa le tulaga lamatia o “fa’ai’uga fa’atama’i” – o fa’ai’uga a le juri e sili atu i le $10 miliona. Ua va’aia e Texas le numera sili ona maualuga o nei fa’ai’uga i le atunu’u, ma le tele o fa’ata’ita’iga i mataupu o ta’avale tetele, e pei o:

• Ose $37.5 miliona le fa’ai’uga faasaga ia Oncor Electric mo se aveta’avale ta’avale la’u mea na fa’alavelaveina i le 2024.
• Ose $44.1 miliona le fa’ai’uga i le mataupu o le fa’aputu o le New Prime I-35 e aofia ai le 6 maliu i le 2024.
• Ose $35 miliona le taui faasaga ia Ben E. Keith i Fort Worth, o le sili ona tele lea i le tala fa’asolopito o le taulaga i le 2024.
• Ose $105 miliona le fa’ai’uga mata’ina i le Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon) i le 2024.

O le lamatiaga lenei e fa’aosofia ai latou e fa’amautu mataupu o manu’aga tuga mo tau maualuga, ae na’o le iloa lava o latou o lo’o feagai ma se ofisa e pei o le Attorney911 o lo’o sauni ma agava’a e faia se fa’amasinoga. “I le Attorney911, ua fesoasoani a matou loia o manu’aga patino i le tele o tagata manu’a ma aiga o lo’o feagai ma mataupu o maliu sese e feso’ota’i ma ta’avale e maua ai le tele o miliona tala i le taui,” o lo’o fa’aalia ai lo matou malosi e fa’asaga i nei fa’alapotopotoga tetele.

Afai ua e fa’anoanoa po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fa’alavelave i le 18-uili i Amerika Samoa, e taua tele le taimi. O fa’amaoniga taua, e pei o fa’amaumauga a le ELD, e vave ona leiloa. Vala’au vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua, fa’alilolilo. Ia matou tu’uina atu a matou i’uga e tele miliona tala ma le poto masani i le fa’amasinoga feterale e galulue mo oe.

Fa’alavelave Inumia Ava Malosi i Amerika Samoa

Fa’asalaina Aveta’avale Fa’aletonu ma Nofoaga E Nafa ai

O le aveina o le ta’avale pe a uma ona inu ‘ava malosi o se solitulafono e mafai ona puipuia ma e i’u ai i ni taunu’uga leaga, ma fa’anoanoa ai aiga i Amerika Samoa ma le setete atoa o Texas. E leai se ‘alofaga mo le aveina o le ta’avale pe a uma ona inu ‘ava malosi. O fuainumera e matua ofoofogia: i le 2024, na lipotia e Texas le 1,053 maliu e feso’ota’i ma le aveina o le ta’avale pe a uma ona inu ‘ava malosi, e aofia ai le 25.37% o maliu uma i auala tetele. E sili atu i le 24,000 fa’alavelave e feso’ota’i ma le UIA e tupu i Texas i tausaga ta’itasi. E le na’o ni fuainumera ia; o lo’o fa’atusalia ai olaga moni ua suia e fa’avavau ona o le filifiliga le fa’aeteete a se tasi e ave le ta’avale a’o ‘ona.

I le Attorney911, matou te talitonu maumaua’i e tatau ona nafa atoatoa aveta’avale ‘ona mo a latou gaioiga. I lalo o le Texas Penal Code § 49.04, o se aveta’avale e aloa’ia o lo’o ‘ona pe afai o lona Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) o le 0.08% pe sili atu. Mo aveta’avale fa’apisinisi, e la’ititi atu le tapula’a, i le 0.04%. Mo le silia ma le 25 tausaga, na tuliloaina malosi e Ralph Manginello ma la matou ‘au le fa’amasinoga tonu mo tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave e feso’ota’i ma le aveina o le ta’avale pe a uma ona inu ‘ava malosi, ma mautinoa ai le mauaina o le taui sili e le gata mai i le aveta’avale ‘ona, ae fa’apea fo’i mai so’o se nofoaga na tu’uina atu le ‘ava malosi i se faiga fa’asolitulafono.

Fa’aaogaina o le Tulafono a le Texas Dram Shop: O se Auala Taua mo Le Fa’amasinoga Tonu

O se tasi o meafaigaluega sili ona malosi i le tau mo tagata o lo’o a’afia i le aveina o le ta’avale o le Texas’s Dram Shop Act (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02). O lenei tulafono e mafai ai e tagata o lo’o a’afia ona taofi pa, faleaiga, po’o isi nofoaga (ua ta’ua o le “tagata tu’uina atu”) e nafa pe afai na latou tu’uina atu i se tagata “e mautinoa le ‘ona” na mafua ai se fa’alavelave. Ina ia fa’amaonia se tagi a le dram shop, e tatau ona tatou fa’amaonia ni mea taua se lua:

1. “E mautinoa le ‘ona”: Na tu’uina atu e le nofoaga i se tagata fa’atau o lo’o matua’i (po’o le “e mautinoa”) ‘ona i le taimi o le tautua. O fa’ailoga o le ‘ona e mautinoa e mafai ona aofia ai le tautala va’ai, mata mūmū po’o le pupula, le sa’o o le savali po’o le tautevateva, amioga fa’asausili po’o le le fa’amaopoopoina, ma le fa’aletonu o le fa’atautaia.
2. “Mafua’aga Proximate”: O le tele o le tautua o se mafua’aga sa’o ma ono tupu (le “mafua’aga proximate”) o le fa’alavelave ma mea leaga na tula’i mai.

O vaega e ono nafa i lalo o le tulafono o le dram shop e mafai ona amata mai i pa ma falekalapu i faleaiga, faleoloa Ava malosi, ma e o’o lava i tagata fa’atulagaina o mea e fa’amea ai le ava malosi. O lona uiga o se fa’alavelave e tasi ona o le ‘ava malosi i Amerika Samoa e mafai ona a’afia ai le tele o tagata e puipuia, o tagata ta’itasi ma a latou lava inisiua, ma o’o atu ai i le tele o le fa’asiliaina o le taui.

Le Matafaioi a Tulafono Fa’asalapoto:

O mataupu o le ave ta’avale pe ‘ona e masani ona agava’a mo tulafono fa’asalapoto (e ta’ua fo’i o tulafono fa’a’oa’o) i Texas. O nei tulafono ua fa’atulagaina e le totogiina le tagata afaina ona o lo latou leiloa, ae ia fa’asalaina le tagata ua molia mo a latou amio leaga, le fa’aeteete, po’o le leaga ma ia taofia ai amioga fa’apea i le lumana’i. Ona o le ave ta’avale pe ‘ona o lo’o fa’aalia ai se le amana’ia loto i le saogalemu o isi, e masani ona fetaui ma tulaga mo tulafono fa’asalapoto. O lenei fa’amalamalamaga e fa’aalia atili ai le mafua’aga e mafai ai e nei mataupu ona sili atu le taua, aua latou te fa’aosofia ai pisinisi ma aveta’avale fa’atonutonu e galulue ma le tele o le fa’aeteete.

Lo Tatou Tomai Fa’apitoa: Fa’atasi Mataupu Solitulafono ma Sivili:

O le ‘auai o Ralph Manginello i le HCCLA (Harry County Criminal Lawyers Association) o se fa’amaoniga o lo matou malamalama loloto i faiga fa’aletulafono fa’ale-sivil ma fa’asolitulafono. E taua tele lea i mataupu o le aveina o le ta’avale pe ‘ona, lea e mafai ona matua a’afia ai le mataupu sivil i’uga o le fa’amasinoga. O le mea moni, o lo’o iai i lo matou ‘au se fa’amaumauga o le fa’ato’ilaloina o moliaga UIA, o lo’o fa’aalia ai fa’afitauli e pei o:

• Le lelei o le tausiga o masini e siaki ai le manava: “Na molia le matou kalani i le aveina o le ta’avale pe ‘ona e fa’avae i luga o se su’ega manava. Ua fa’aalia i le matou su’esu’ega e le’i lelei ona tausia e se tagata faigaluega a le matagaluega o leoleo masini e siaki ai le manava. Na fa’amavae moliaga.”
• Misi atu mea taua: “Na ave e le matou kalani le ta’avale i le fale i le 2:30 i le vaveao, na taia se pito auala ma liliu lona ta’avale, ma manu’a ai se pasese. Na matou iloa e 1) e le’i faia e leoleo se su’ega manava po’o le toto, 2) e le’i tusia e le EMS le ‘ona, 3) na leiloa fa’amaumauga a tausima’i mai le falema’i. Na fa’amavae le mataupu i le aso o le fa’amasinoga.”
• Challenging video evidence: “Na molia le matou kalani i le UIA (DUI/DWI), o le fa’amaoniga autu a le setete o le vitio su’ega fa’afitiga o le fanua. Na matou manuia i le fa’amavavaeina o le mataupu ona e le’i pei o se ‘ona le matou kalani i le vitio.”

O lenei malamalama loloto i le puipuiga o solitulafono e fa’amalosia ai lo matou agava’a e fa’aalia uma fa’amaoniga ma fausia se mataupu e le mafa’ato’ilaloina mo tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave tau ta’avale pe a ‘ona i Amerika Samoa.

Afai na e a’afia po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fa’alavelave e feso’ota’i ma le aveina o se ta’avale pe a ‘ona i Amerika Samoa, e te mana’omia se loia e le tu’uina se ma’a e le liliu i le sailiga o le fa’amasinoga tonu. Aua le tu’u le le fa’aeteete o se aveta’avale ‘ona e fa’aleaga ai lou lumana’i. Vala’au vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua, fa’alilolilo. Matou te tauivi e fa’asalaina tagata uma e nafa.

Fa’alavelave Pasika i Amerika Samoa

Tauivi ma le Fa’aituau mo Tagata Ti’eti’e Fa’amanu’a i Auala o Amerika Samoa

O tagata ti’eti’e uila i auala o Amerika Samoa o lo’o feagai ma tulaga lamatia fa’apitoa ma e masani ona feagai ma le fa’aituau le talafeagai pe a a’afia i se fa’alavelave. E ui i le fa’aeteete tele, e masani ona tu’ua’ia le au ti’eti’e uila mo fa’alavelave, e tusa lava pe sese se aveta’avale le fa’aeteete. O le mea moni e matua’i malosi: i le 2024, na lipotia e Texas le 585 maliu o tagata ti’eti’e uila, ma le 37% o i latou na maliliu e le’i ofuina pulou. E ui o le tulafono a Texas e mana’omia pulou mo tagata ti’eti’e i lalo o le 21 tausaga, o i latou i luga o le 21 tausaga e mafai ona tuusaunoaina pe afai ua mae’a se a’oga saogalemu pe iai ni a latou inisiua fa’afoma’i e le itiiti ifo i le $10,000. Tusa lava po’o le a le tulafono o le pulou, o le le fa’aeteete o se aveta’avale o lo’o tumau pea o se mea taua tele i le tele o fa’alavelave.

O Amerika Samoa, e pei o isi vaega o Texas, e o’o i le tele o fa’alavelave tau uila afi i masina mafanafana, mai Mati i Oketopa, ma le maualuga i le Aso Faraile e o’o i le Aso Sa, aemaise lava i le va o le 3 PM ma le 9 PM. Matou te malamalama i nei fa’ata’ita’iga i Amerika Samoa ma matou iloa le auala e su’esu’e ai ma le mae’ae’a.

Le Ta’aloga Tu’ua’i a le Kamupani Inisiua: Le Auala Matou te Tauivi Atu Ai

O kamupani inisiua e toetoe lava o taimi uma latou te taumafai e tu’ua’ia le tagata ti’eti’e uila. E sili atu le fa’afitauli lenei i Texas ona o le tulafono o le “51% fa’atusatusaina o le le fa’aeteete.” Afai e te fa’amaonia e 51% pe sili atu fo’i le sese, e te le maua se mea. Afai e te 50% pe la’ititi ifo fo’i le sese, e fa’aitiitia lou taui e tusa ai ma lou pasene o le sese. O lenei pasene la’itiiti e mafai ona fa’aalu ai ou afe. Mo se fa’ata’ita’iga, afai e fa’amaonia e te 10% le sese i se mataupu e $100,000, e te leiloa le $10,000.

O mafua’aga masani e masani ona sese ai aveta’avale, ae le o tagata ti’eti’e, e aofia ai:

• Le Tu’uina Atu o le Ala: O le mafua’aga sili ona taatele, aemaise lava i nofoaga e felavasa’i ai. E masani ona fai mai aveta’avale latou te “le’i va’ai” le uila afi.
• Le Fa’aeteete/Fa’alavelave o Aveta’avale: E le’i va’ai aveta’avale o lo’o popole i telefoni po’o isi galuega i uila afi.
• Suia Ala Le Saogalemu: E suia e aveta’avale ala e aunoa ma le siakiina o vaega e le’i va’aia mo ta’avale la’itiiti.
• Fa’alavelave Liliu Agavale: O ta’avale e liliu agavale i luma o se uila afi o lo’o aga’i mai e o’o atu ai i fa’alavelave tuga i le itu o le ta’avale po’o le fa’afeagai.

O la matou loia lagolago, o Lupe Peña, na faaaluina ni tausaga o galue e puipuia itu, ma finauina tonu lava nei finauga o le sese faatusatusa. O lea la, ua ia faaaogaina lea malamalama i totonu e vaai ai ma faatoilalo a latou togafiti, ia mautinoa ai e maua e tagata tiʻetiʻe uila afi manuʻa i Amerika Samoa le faamasinoga tonu. Matou te iloa le auala e faamaonia ai o le avetaʻavale le faaeteete na nafa.

Afai na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave tau uila afi i Amerika Samoa, aua le fa’atagaina kamupani inisiua e tu’ua’ia oe i le le fa’aeteete o se isi tagata. Fa’afeso’ota’i vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua. Matou te tauivi ma le lē fiu e puipuia ou aia tatau ma ia mautinoa e te maua le taui e tatau ai.

Fa’alavelave Aso i Amerika Samoa

Puipuia Tagata Savavali Fa’aleaga i Auala o Amerika Samoa

O tagata savavali o se tasi o tagata sili ona vaivai i o tatou auala i Amerika Samoa. A aunoa ma le puipuiga o se ta’avale, o se fete’ena’iga ma se ta’avale po’o se loli e mafai ona o’o atu ai i manu’aga leaga po’o le oti. O fuainumera i Texas e fa’amata’utia: i le 2024, na tupu ai le 6,095 fa’alavelave i tagata savavali, ma o’o atu ai i le 768 maliu. E ui o tagata savavali e na’o le 1% o fa’alavelave uma, ae o le mea fa’anoanoa, e 19% o uma maliu i auala tetele. O lenei eseesega mata’utia o lo’o fa’amamafaina ai le lamatiaga tele o lo’o feagai ma tagata savavali, aemaise lava i nofoaga o lo’o tele ai feoaiga o ta’avale.

A o fa’aauau pea ona atina’e Amerika Samoa, o le taula’i atu i le saogalemu o tagata savavali e taua tele. O le mea fa’anoanoa, o le le fa’aeteete o le aveta’avale e masani ona tu’u ai tagata savavali i se tulaga lamatia. Matou te galulue malosi mo tagata savavali manu’a i Amerika Samoa, o lo’o sailia le fa’amasinoga tonu mai aveta’avale le fa’aeteete o lo’o le amana’ia tulafono o le ta’avale ma le saogalemu o isi.

Le Aia Tatau Fa’aletulafono i le Ala: Ose Tulafono Le Malamalama

O se tasi o manatu fa’aletulafono sili ona taua e le amana’ia e le tele o aveta’avale ma kamupani inisiua o le o tagata savavali e Iloa le aia tatau i le ala i nofoaga e felavasa’i ai i lalo o le tulafono a Texas, e o’o lava i auala savali e le’i fa’ailoaina. E pei ona matou fa’amatala soo, “So’o se taimi e iai se felavasa’i o alatele e lua, o le mamao i le va o ia ‘alo’alo o se auala savali,” tusa lava pe ula pe leai. E ui i lenei fa’ai’uga manino fa’aletulafono, e masani ona le tu’uina atu e aveta’avale, ma o’o atu ai i taunu’uga leaga.

O manu’aga masani e maua e tagata savavali e aofia ai:

• Manu’aga fai’ai fafie (TBI): E mafua mai i fa’asiga i le ulu po’o le lulū malosi o le fai’ai.
• Manu’aga i le ua: E o’o atu ai i le fa’aletonu atoa po’o le fa’aletonu o le tino.
• Manu’a i le suilapalapa ma vae: O le fa’asiga sa’o mai ta’avale e masani ona nutimomoia vae pito i lalo.
• Fa’aleagaina o totoga i totonu o le tino: O fa’asiga tuga e mafai ona o’o atu ai i le pa’u o totoga ma le toto i totonu o le tino.
• Maliu: O le mea fa’anoanoa, o le tele o fa’alavelave i tagata savavali e i’u ai i le oti ona o le leai o se puipuiga.

E masani ona taumafai kamupani inisiua e finauina le sese fa’atusatusa, ma taumafai e tu’ua’ia le tagata savavali o lo’o fa’alavelave pe savali i le ala e le tatau ai. Ae ui i lea, o lo matou ‘au poto masani, fa’atasi ai ma le malamalama i totonu o Lupe Peña e uiga i togafiti puipuia, e iloa le auala e fa’asaga ai i nei tu’ua’iga ma fa’amautu le nafa o le aveta’avale. Matou te aoina ma su’esu’e uma fa’amaoniga avanoa, e aofia ai ata mata’ituina mai pisinisi lata ane, fa’amatalaga a molimau, ma lipoti o fa’alavelave auiliili, e fausia ai se mataupu e le mafa’ato’ilaloina.

Afai na e sasa’ia po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe e se ta’avale a’o savali i Amerika Samoa, e te mana’omia vave se loia. Aua le fa’atagaina tagata fa’avasega o inisiua e tu’uina atu le tu’ua’iga ia te oe. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le asō i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fa’atalanoaga fua. O lo matou ofisa ua tu’uto’atasi i le puipuia o aia tatau a tagata savavali ma le mauaina o le taui sili mo o latou manu’aga.

Fa’alavelave Fa’atasi Fa’atauga (Uber/Lyft) i Amerika Samoa

Fa’atautaia le Labyrinth Inisiua Faigata i le Gig Economy a Amerika Samoa

Ua avea auaunaga o femalagaaiga fa’akomepiuta e pei o le Uber ma le Lyft ma vaega taua o feoaiga i Amerika Samoa, ma ofoina atu le faigofie i le faitau miliona o tagata. Ae peita’i, pe a tupu se fa’alavelave e aofia ai se ta’avale fa’akomepiuta, e mafai ona faigata tele fa’afitauli fa’aletulafono ma inisiua. O le iloa o le nafa ma le fa’ailoaina o le inisiua sa’o e totogi ai tupe fa’aleaga e sili atu ona lavelave nai lo se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi masani, ma e masani ona fa’atupuina ai le fenumia’i ma le fa’atuai mo tagata manu’a na afaina i Amerika Samoa. Faatasi ai ma le 17.4 miliona malaga a Uber i aso ta’itasi i le lalolagi atoa ma le faitau aofa’i o malaga e mae’a i tausaga ta’itasi, e tele le avanoa e tupu ai fa’alavelave.

I le Attorney911, o lo’o iai lo matou malamalama fa’apitoa e fa’atautaia ai nei mataupu lavelave. O le matou loia lagolago, o Lupe Peña, fa’atasi ai ma lona tala’aga i le puipuiga o inisiua, o lo’o iai se malamalama loloto i inisiua eseese o lo’o a’afia ai, ma maua ai e a matou tagata fa’atau se avanoa taua.

Le Taua o Vaega Fa’ainisiua Fa’atau Fa’atasi:

O le inisiua e ufiufi i se fa’alavelave fa’atau fa’atasi e fa’alagolago atoatoa i le mea o lo’o fa’atinoina e le aveta’avale i le taimi tonu o le fa’aletonu. E iai ni “vaega” eseese e fa’atonu ai le inisiua e aoga:

1. Vaitaimi 0 – Tape le App (Tu’u ese): E le’i ulufale le aveta’avale i le app o le femalagaa’iga ma o lo’o fa’aaoga lona ta’avale mo le fa’aaogaina patino. I lenei tulaga, e na’o le inisiua ta’avale a le aveta’avale lava ia e aoga. E masani lava o le tau maualalo o Texas o le 30/60/25 ($30,000 i le tagata mo manu’aga tino, $60,000 i le fa’alavelave mo manu’aga tino, ma $25,000 mo fa’aleagaina o meatotino).
2. Vaitaimi 1 – I luga le App (Fa’atali mo le Talosaga): O le aveta’avale o lo’o logia i le app, o lo’o fa’atali ma le galue mo se talosaga e ave, ae e le’i taliaina lava. I lenei vaitaimi, afai e le ufiufi e le inisiua patino a le aveta’avale, ona aoga lea o se inisiua femalagaa’iga fa’aopoopo, e masani lava e ofoina atu le $50,000 i le tagata/$100,000 i le fa’alavelave mo le nofoaga e totogi ai manu’aga tino ma le $25,000 mo fa’aleagaina o meatotino.
3. Vaitaimi 2 – Talosaga Taliaina (I le Ala e Ave ai): Ua taliaina e le aveta’avale se talosaga e ave ma o lo’o aga’i atu e piki le pasese. I lenei taimi, o le inisiua fa’apisinisi atoa a le kamupani femalagaa’iga e masani lava ona tu’uina atu le $1,000,000 i le ufiufi.
4. Vaitaimi 3 – Fela’ua’iga Pasese: O lo’o i totonu o le ta’avale le pasese, o lo’o la’uina atu i lona taunu’uga. E toe fa’apea fo’i, o le inisiua fa’apisinisi atoa a le kamupani femalagaa’iga, o lo’o tu’uina atu le $1,000,000 i le ufiufi, e aoga.

O Ai E Mafai ona Manu’a i Fa’alavelave Fa’atasi Fa’atauga?

O fa’alavelave e aofia ai le Uber po’o le Lyft e le gata i le aveta’avale o le fa’atauga. Ua fa’aalia i fuainumera e:

• 21% o i latou na manu’a o pasese (o le “au ti’eti’e”).
• 21% o aveta’avale o femalagaiga lava latou.
• 58% o “isi vaega” – o lona uiga o isi aveta’avale, a latou pasese, po’o tagata savavali na taia e se aveta’avale fa’atauga le fa’aeteete po’o se isi ta’avale na a’afia i le fa’alavelave.

O lenei fa’amaumauga e fa’ailoa mai ai le lautele o le a’afiaga e mafai e nei fa’alavelave ona maua i le nu’u i Amerika Samoa.

Afai na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave fa’atasi fa’atauga i Amerika Samoa, pe o se pasese, o se isi aveta’avale, po’o se tagata savali, e te mana’omia se loia e malamalama i nei fa’afitauli fa’ainisiua lavelave. Aua le tu’u le kamupani femalagaa’iga po’o a latou tagata fa’avasega e fa’afefe ia te oe pe fa’afitia lau taui talafeagai. Vala’au vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se iloiloga fua o lau mataupu. Fa’atasi ai ma le malamalama i totonu o Lupe Peña, matou te iloa le auala e maua ai le taui sili e tatau ai.

Ta’avale Tu’i ma Ta’avale Sola i Amerika Samoa

Saili le Fa’amasinoga Tonu Pe a Sola le Aveta’avale Nafa Mai le Vaega na Tupu ai le Fa’alavelave

O se fa’alavelave tau tu’i ma sola o se mea e matua’i fa’anoanoa ma masani ona fa’amata’utia. Ua e manu’a, ua fa’aleagaina lau ta’avale, ma na faia e le tagata na nafa le filifiliga fa’atautala e sola ese mai le vaaiga, ma tu’u oe e taulimaina na’o oe le tele o mea e mulimuli mai. I le atunu’u, e a’afia se tagata i se fa’alavelave tau tu’i ma sola i le 43 sekone uma, ma e le puipuia Amerika Samoa mai nei fa’alavelave. E le gata o le sola ese mai le vaaiga o se fa’alavelave o se gaioiga e matua’i le tatau, ae o se solitulafono tuga fo’i i Texas, ma e iai ni fa’asalaga mamafa.

I lalo o le Texas Transportation Code § 550.021, o fa’asalaga mo le sola ese mai se fa’alavelave e eseese e fa’atatau i le ogaoga o le i’uga:

• Manu’a: Afai e manu’a se tasi, e mafai ona avea ma se solitulafono lona tolu, ma mafai ona fa’asalaga i le 2-10 tausaga i le falepuipui ma se sala tupe e o’o atu i le $10,000.
• Maliu: Afai e o’o atu le fa’alavelave i le oti, e avea ma solitulafono lona lua, ma e fa’asalaga i le 2-20 tausaga i le falepuipui ma se sala tupe e o’o atu i le $10,000.
• Osofa’iga i Meatotino: E tusa lava pe na’o le fa’aleagaina o meatotino e tupu, e mafai ona avea ma se solitulafono la’ititi (Class B Misdemeanor) po’o se solitulafono i le falepuipui a le setete (State Jail Felony), ma le ono fa’asalaga i le falepuipui ma sala tupe.

Fa’aaogaina o Inisiua mo Tagata e Le’i Inisiua/Lalo Inisiua (UM/UIM):

Pe a sola ese le aveta’avale sese, e masani lava ona foliga mai e leai se auala e maua ai se taui. Ae peita’i, o le taimi tonu lea e taua tele ai lau inisiua mo Tagata e Le’i Inisiua (UM). Afai o lo’o ia te oe le inisiua UM i luga o lau inisiua ta’avale, e galue o se laina fesoasoani, e sau e totogi au pili fa’afoma’i, tupe leiloa, ma tiga ma fa’afitauli pe a le mafai ona fa’ailoa pe maua le aveta’avale le fa’aeteete. A’oa’o atili e uiga i fa’ai’uga a le UM/UIM i la matou vitio YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

Le Taua o le Fa’asaoina o Fa’amaoniga:

I mataupu tau tu’i ma sola i Amerika Samoa, e matua taua tele le fa’aaogaina o le taimi. O fa’amaoniga taua e mafai ona fesoasoani e iloa ai le aveta’avale sola po’o le fa’amaonia o lana moliaga e vave ona leiloa:

• Ata Va’aiina: O le tele o mea pu’eata mo le va’aiina i fale suau’u, faleoloa, ma nofoaga e felavasa’i ai e masani ona tapeina ata i totonu o le 7-30 aso. E mafai fo’i ona le tumau ata o le faitoto’a e fa’aigoaina o le Ring. A leiloa loa, e leiloa e fa’avavau.
• Molimau: O tagata na va’aia le fa’alavelave e mafai ona ta’ape, faimalaga, po’o le mou atu o o latou manatuaga.

I le Attorney911, o le taimi lava e te faʻafesoʻotaʻi ai matou pe a maeʻa se taʻaloga ma sola i Amerika Samoa, matou te galulue vave. Matou te vave lafoina tusi faʻasao i pisinisi, auina atu tagata suʻesuʻe e suʻesuʻe le eria mo mea puʻeata ma molimau, ma galulue faʻatasi ma le faʻamalosia o tulafono e faʻailoa le tagata e nafa. O lenei tali vave e taua tele e puʻeina faʻamaoniga le tumau ma fausia lau mataupu. O la matou loia lagolago, Lupe Peña, o loʻo faʻaaogaina lona talaʻaga puipuia e malamalama ai i le auala e taumafai ai kamupani inisiua e faʻaitiitia tiute, aemaise lava pe a le o iai le isi avetaʻavale.

Afai ua e a’afia i se fa’alavelave tau tu’i ma sola i Amerika Samoa, aua le fa’anoanoa. E iai ou aia tatau, ma matou te mafai ona fesoasoani ia te oe e sailia le fa’amasinoga tonu. Vala’au vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga vave, fua. O aso uma e te fa’atali ai o lona uiga e mafai ona leiloa fa’amaoniga taua.

Fa’alavelave Uila Afi i Amerika Samoa

Ose Popolega Fa’atupula’ia mo Tagata Ti’eti’e Uila i Amerika Samoa

A’o fa’atupula’ia le fiafia i le ti’eti’e uila afi mo fa’afiafiaga ma le fela’ua’iga i Amerika Samoa, e fa’apea fo’i le lamatiaga o fa’alavelave ma ta’avale afi. O tagata ti’eti’e uila afi, e pei o tagata savavali, e matua’i vaivai lava i luga o le auala, e leai se puipuiga mai le malosi o se ta’avale po’o se loli. I Texas, na tupu ai le 78 maliu o tagata ti’eti’e uila afi i le 2024, o se fa’aitiitiga e 26.42% mai le tausaga na muamua atu, ae o lo’o tumau pea o se numera fa’anoanoa. E masani ona feagai tagata ti’eti’e ma le le fa’aeteete o aveta’avale, fa’atinoina malosi, ma se va’aiga le sa’o o le sese, aemaise lava e fa’atatau i le tulafono o le 51% o le fa’atusatusaina o le le fa’aeteete a Texas lea e masani ona taumafai ai kamupani inisiua e tu’uina atu le tu’ua’iga le talafeagai i le tagata ti’eti’e uila afi.

Malamalama i le Nafa ma le Tauivi Faasaga i le Fa’aituau:

E masani ona fai mai aveta’avale latou te “le’i va’ai” se tagata ti’eti’e uila po’o le agava’a o le tagata ti’eti’e uila o lo’o solia se tulafono o le ta’avale. O la matou matafaioi o le fa’asaga atu lea i nei fa’aituau ma fa’amautu le nafa manino. O mafua’aga masani o fa’alavelave uila, e tele lava ina mafua mai i le le fa’aeteete o le aveta’avale, e aofia ai:

• Aveta’avale o lo’o Liliu Agavale: Liliu sa’o atu i le ala o se tagata ti’eti’e uila o lo’o aga’i mai.
• Aveta’avale o lo’o Liliu Taumatau: Oti ese se tagata ti’eti’e uila o lo’o aga’i sa’o atu, e masani ona ta’ua o le “fa’au’au taumatau.”
• Tatala le Faitoto’a o le Ta’avale: O se aveta’avale po’o se pasese o lo’o tatalaina le faitoto’a o le ta’avale sa’o i le ala o se tagata ti’eti’e uila.
• Aveta’avale o lo’o Alu ‘ese mai Auala Ulufale po’o Nofoaga Ta’avale e Fa’aautū: Le mafai ona va’aia tagata ti’eti’e uila i luga o le auala savali po’o le auala uila.
• Fa’alavelave i le Ta’avale: Aveta’avale o lo’o va’ava’ai i a latou telefoni po’o le le fa’aeteete.

O la matou ‘au i le Attorney911 e aoina uma fa’amaoniga avanoa, e aofia ai ata mata’ituina mai pisinisi i Amerika Samoa, fa’amatalaga a molimau, ma lipoti auiliili o fa’alavelave, e fa’aalia ai le le fa’aeteete o le aveta’avale. O le poto masani fa’apitoa o Lupe Peña i togafiti puipuia o inisiua o lona uiga e mafai ona matou fa’ato’ilaloina finauga o le fa’atusatusaina o le sese e masani ona fa’aaogaina faasaga i tagata ti’eti’e uila.

Afai na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave tau uila afi i Amerika Samoa, aua le faia e kamupani inisiua oe ia tu’ua’ia mo le le fa’aeteete o se isi tagata. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua. Matou te mautinoa e fa’alogologo lou leo ma puipuia ou aia tatau.

Fa’alavelave Pasi i Amerika Samoa

Fa’afitauli Faigata i Fela-ua’iga Lautele ma Tuma’oti a Amerika Samoa

Pe a a’afia se pasi i se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, e mafai ona o’o i’uga tuga ona o le tele o pasese e ono o’o mai ma le tele tele o le ta’avale. E eseese pasi mai pasi a le malo ma pasi a’oga i pasi turisi fa’apisinisi ma pasi la’itiiti tuma’oti. Na ta’ita’ia e Texas setete uma i le 2024 ma le 1,110 fa’alavelave pasi, e aofia ai le 17 fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i ma le 549 fa’alavelave manu’aga. O le saogalemu o pasi a’oga o lo’o avea fo’i ma popolega tele, ma le silia ma le 2,523 fa’alavelave pasi a’oga na lipotia i le 2023, ma o’o atu ai i le 11 maliu ma le 63 manu’aga tuga, ma le faitau afe o tamaiti a’oga na manu’a.

Tele Itu, Togi Faigata:

O faalavelave pasi e masani ona aafia ai le tele o vaega o le noataga, ma faia ai ia matua lavelave. O vaega ono nafa e mafai ona aofia ai:

• Le Aveta’avale o le Pasi: Mo le le fa’aeteete e pei o le fa’alavelave i le ave, vaivai, po’o le fa’aletonu.
• Le Pulea/Kamupani Pasi: Mo le le atoatoa o a’oa’oga, fa’aagaga le fa’aeteete, le lelei o le tausiga o ta’avale, po’o le fa’amalosia o aveta’avale e solia tulafono saogalemu.
• Le Faufale Pasi: Mo fa’aletonu i le tisaini (e pei o taofi fa’aletonu, pa’u, po’o fa’aletonu o le fausaga).
• Isi Aveta’avale: Afai na mafua e se isi ta’avale le pa’u o le pasi.
• Vaega Fa’ale-Malo: Afai na mafua e le le lelei o le tisaini o auala, fa’ailoga, po’o le tausiga le fa’alavelave. O tagi faasaga i vaega fa’ale-malo e iai ni mana’oga fa’apitoa mo fa’amatalaga ma taimi pupuu tele.

Manatu Fa’apitoa mo Fa’alavelave Pasi A’oga:

O fa’alavelave pasi a’oga e sili atu ona ma’ale’ale, e a’afia ai le saogalemu o tamaiti. E ui o nei mataupu e masani ona a’afia ai tagi faasaga i vaega fa’ale-malo (e pei o itumalo a’oga), lea e fa’aalia ai lu’itau o le puipuiga o le malo, e iai tuusaunoaga e fa’asala ai vaega le fa’aeteete. O la matou ʻau, fa’atasi ai ma le silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani o Ralph Manginello, e malamalama i le fa’atautaia o nei fa’afitauli.

Afai na e manu’a po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fa’alavelave pasi i Amerika Samoa, e taua tele le mauaina o se loia vave ma tomai. Fa’afeso’ota’i vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 e talanoa ai i au filifiliga. Matou te su’esu’e mae’ae’a vaega uma o le fa’alavelave e fa’ailoa ai vaega uma e nafa ma tuliloa le taui atoa e tatau ai.

Fa’alavelave i Nofoaga Fa’apupula i Amerika Samoa

Fa’atautaia Tulaga Lamatia i Nofoaga o Galuega i Amerika Samoa

O nofoaga faufale o se vaega taua o le atina’e i Amerika Samoa, ae o vaega mata’utia tele fo’i ia o lo’o matua’i fa’ateleina ai le lamatiaga o fa’alavelave. O le fa’aitiitia o tapula’a saoasaoa, fa’ailoga fenumia’i, auala va’ava’a, ma le i ai o meafaigaluega tetele e fa’atupuina ai se si’osi’omaga mata’utia mo aveta’avale ma tagata faigaluega faufale. I le 2024, na tupu ai le toeitiiti 28,000 fa’alavelave i nofoaga o galuega a Texas, ma o’o atu ai i le 215 maliu – o se fa’atupula’ia fa’amata’utia e 12% nai lo le tausaga na muamua atu. I le atunu’u, ua fa’ateleina maliu i nofoaga o galuega i le 50% mai le 2013-2023, ma o su’esu’ega o lo’o fa’aalia ai le tele o konekarate o lo’o lipotia fa’alavelave ma manu’aga o tagata faigaluega i nei nofoaga.

O ai e nafa pe a tupu fa’alavelave?

O le nafa i fa’alavelave i nofoaga faufale e mafai ona faigata, e masani ona aofia ai le tele o itu:

• Aveta’avale Le Fa’aeteete: O aveta’avale e le mafai ona fa’agesegese, le amana’ia fa’ailoga, aveina o le ta’avale ma le fa’alavelave, po’o le mulimuli vavae tele o se mafua’aga autu o fa’alavelave i nofoaga o galuega. O le tala fa’anoanoa o le tamaitiiti a’oga i le kolisi o Katrina Bond, o le na maliu i luga o le I-35 e latalata i Fort Worth ina ua tu’i e se aveta’avale loli fa’alavelaveina lona ta’avale i se nofoaga o galuega, o lo’o fa’aalia ai lenei lamatiaga.
• Kamupani Faufale: Mo le le lelei o le makaina po’o le fa’amalamalamaina o le nofoaga, le lelei o le fa’atautaia o feoaiga, po’o le tu’uina o ni lamatiaga i luga o le auala.
• Vaega Fa’ale-Malo: O le Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) po’o isi pulega fa’atonutonu i le lotoifale e mafai ona latou nafa mo le le lelei o le tisaini, tausiga, po’o le va’ava’aiina o le nofoaga o galuega.
• Tagata E Fa’aogaina Meafaigaluega: Mo le le fa’aeteete o le fa’aogaina o masini mamafa.

I Amerika Samoa, matou te malamalama o lo’o fa’aauau pea galuega faufale, ma e tatau i aveta’avale ona mataala, ae o kamupani faufale ma isi aveta’avale o lo’o iai fo’i se tiute mo le saogalemu. O lo’o aumaia e la matou kamupani poto masani mai le a’afia i fa’amasinoga pa o le BP, lea e fa’aalia ai lo matou agava’a e taulimaina mataupu e aofia ai tagata e faasaga i pisinisi ma kamupani lavelave.

Afai na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave i se nofoaga fa’apupula i Amerika Samoa, e te mana’omia se loia e mafai ona fa’avasega vaega o le nafa ma tu’u atu ai i kamupani faufale tetele po’o vaega fa’ale-malo. Vala’au vave le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fa’atalanoaga fua. Matou te su’esu’e mae’ae’a le vaaiga ma fa’asalaina vaega uma e le’i fa’aeteete.

Fa’alavelave Fa’avaina Ta’avale i Amerika Samoa

O Tulaga Le Lilo o Auaunaga Fa’ato’ilalo Fa’ato’ilalo o Amerika Samoa

O le fa’atupula’ia o auaunaga fa’atosina i le taimi lava e mana’omia ai, mai ta’avale a Amazon DSP (Delivery Service Partner) i aveta’avale DoorDash ma Grubhub, ua suia ai fefa’ataua’iga i Amerika Samoa. E ui e faigofie, o lenei fa’atupula’ia o ta’avale fa’ato’esa ua o’o atu ai i se fa’atupula’ia fa’a’ono o fa’alavelave. E masani ona fa’amuamua e kamupani fa’ato’esa le saoasaoa ma le tele, o nisi taimi e fai ma sui o le saogalemu, ma e ono fa’amalosia a latou aveta’avale e galulue mo itula uumi pe fa’alagolago tele i masini mo le fa’atautaia, ma fa’ateleina ai le lamatiaga o le fa’alavelave i le ave ta’avale. O mataupu faasaga i nei kamupani o lo’o fa’atupula’ia i le atunu’u, ma fa’ai’uga ma taui e tele miliona tala mo tagata afaina.

Fa’ai’uga Taua ma Tulaga Nafa:

O mataupu fa’amasino lata mai o lo’o fa’amanino mai ai le tele o le nofoaga e nafa ai kamupani fa’ato’iesa ma a latou konekarate:

• I le 2024, na maua ai le Amazon 85% le nafa mo se tamaitiiti i Georgia na taia e se ta’avale fa’ato’iesa, ma i’u ai i se fa’ai’uga e $16.2 miliona.
• O se isi mataupu i le 2024, Lopez v. All Points 360 (se Amazon DSP), na i’u ai i se fa’ai’uga e $105 miliona, o se vaega ona o se aveta’avale leai se laisene, le a’oa’oina.
• O se tagi mo le maliu sese faasaga ia Grubhub i Arizona (Nov 2023) na afua mai i se aveta’avale fa’alavelave na le mafai ona va’aia se moli mumu, o lo’o fa’aalia ai le auala e mafai ai e fa’ata’ita’iga pisinisi ona fesoasoani i le le fa’aeteete. O mataupu fa’apena faasaga ia Instacart na o’o atu ai fo’i i tagi e tele miliona tala.

O Amazon DSP, mo se fa’ata’ita’iga, e sili atu le maualuga o fa’alavelave tau le saogalemu nai lo le ‘au fe’avea’i afi masani, ma le 1,879 fa’alavelave e aofia ai ‘au feso’ota’i i Amazon na lipotia i le 24-masina na fa’ai’u ia Aokuso 2025. O nei kamupani e masani ona mana’omia fa’akonekarate e “puipuia ma totogi” le Amazon, lea e fa’afaigata ai le fa’avae fa’aletulafono ae e masani ona fa’apea o lo’o iai ni tupe e sili atu mo taui.

Aisea e Maualuga ai le Taua o Nei Mataupu:

O fa’alavelave tau ta’avale e masani ona maua ai ni taui ma fa’ai’uga maualuga ona o:

• O le tele o ta’avale fa’ato’esa e sili atu ona lapopo’a nai lo ta’avale pasese masani, ma o’o atu ai i manu’aga tuga.
• O aveta’avale e masani ona galulue i lalo o taimi fa’atosina, ma fa’ateleina ai le avanoa e tupu ai amioga le fa’aeteete.
• O le natura fa’apisinisi o nei tagata molia o lona uiga e sili atu le maualuga o tapula’a inisiua ma sili atu le fa’aosofia e ‘alo’ese mai fa’asalalauga leaga.

Afai na e manu’a i se fa’alavelave e aofia ai se ta’avale fa’ato’esa i Amerika Samoa, e te mana’omia se ofisa loia e iai sona poto masani i le fa’atautaia o nei tagi fa’apisinisi. O le Attorney911, fa’atasi ai ma a matou i’uga e tele miliona tala ma le silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani o Ralph Manginello, e aofia ai le a’afia i le fa’amasinoga feterale, ua fa’aauupegaina e tauivi ma nei fa’alapotopotoga tetele. Vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua.

Fa’alavelave Fa’avavevave (ADS) & Fa’alavelave Tesla Autopilot i Amerika Samoa

Fa’asalaina Tekonolosi Fa’amatalaga i Auala o Amerika Samoa

O le tula’i mai o faiga fa’auluuluga aveta’avale (ADS), e aofia ai le Autopilot o Tesla ma le Full Self-Driving (FSD), ua fa’ailoa mai ai se tuaoi fou i le nafa o fa’alavelave. E ui o nei tekonolosi o lo’o folafola atu le fa’aleleia o le saogalemu, o fa’alavelave moni o le olaga ua fa’aalia ai ni fa’aletonu tuga ma e o’o lava i taunu’uga leaga. Mai Amerika Samoa i nofoaga tetele o le taulaga, o lo’o feagai aveta’avale ma nei faiga fa’aauau, ma pe a fa’aletonu, e matua faigata lava le fesili po’o ai e nafa. O fa’amaumauga a le NHTSA o lo’o fa’amaonia ai lea, o lo’o fa’aalia ai o le Tesla Autopilot e 70% o fa’alavelave na lipotia i le ofisa e feso’ota’i ma fesoasoani o aveta’avale.

O se Auala o Le Le Manuia Fa’afuase’i:

O le tele o fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i ua fa’ailoa mai ai tulaga lamatia o le soona fa’alagolago i nei faiga:

• Me 2016, Williston, FL: Na maliu Joshua Brown ina ua le mafai ona va’aia e lona Tesla, o lo’o fa’agaioia i le Autopilot, se 18-uili pa’epa’e o lo’o laasia le alatele.
• Mati 2018, Mountain View, CA: Na maliu le inisinia a Apple o Walter Huang i se fa’alavelave a le Tesla Autopilot i se pa puipui o le alatele. O se fa’ai’uga a le juri e $240M+ talu ai nei faasaga ia Tesla i se mataupu fa’apena ia Aokuso 2025 i Miami o lo’o fa’ailoa mai ai lu’itau fa’aletulafono o lo’o fa’atupula’ia.
• O lo’o fa’aauau pea tagi, e pei o le isi na tupu ina ua maliu Genesis Mendoza ia Tesema 2024 i Kalefonia, o lo’o fa’aauau pea ona lu’iina le tekonolosi a Tesla.

Finauga Autu o le Nafa Fa’asaga i Tagata Faufale:

Pe a le manuia nei faiga alualu i luma, o la matou fuafuaga fa’aletulafono e taula’i atu i finauga taua nei:

1. Fa’asalalauga Fa’asese: Ua masani ona fa’alauiloa e Tesla le FSD/Autopilot e sili atu le saogalemu nai lo aveta’avale tagata, ma fa’atupuina ai se talitonuga fa’asili e mata’utia i le tekonolosi.
2. Soona Mautinoa o le Aveta’avale: O lenei maketi ua mafua ai ona soona fa’alagolago aveta’avale i le faiga, ma le tausia le va’ava’aiga fa’agaioiga e pei ona mana’omia.
3. Fa’alavelave Fa’aletonu Mataga: Ua fa’amaumauina e Tesla fa’aletonu, e aofia ai le le mafai e le faiga ona va’aia ta’avale fa’auluuluga, fa’alavelave tetele fa’apitoa, ma nisi tulaga fa’alavelave fa’afeagai.
4. Toe Fa’aleleia Le Atoatoa: Nai lo le toe fa’atonutonuga atoatoa (e pei o le toe fa’atonutonuga o le 2+ miliona ta’avale Tesla ia Tesema 2023), e masani ona fa’alagolago le kamupani i fa’afouga o polokalama fa’akomepiuta i le ea, lea atonu e le lava le fo’ia o fa’afitauli autu o le saogalemu.

O lo matou ofisa, fa’atasi ai ma le taliaina o Ralph Manginello i le fa’amasinoga feterale i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, ma lona poto masani i fa’amasinoga lavelave e pei o le mataupu o le pa o le BP, ua fa’apitoa ona fa’atuina e taulimaina tagi o fa’aletonu o fua fa’atatau faasaga i kamupani tetele e pei o Tesla. Ua ia i matou punaoa ma tomai fa’apitoa e fa’asaga i kamupani tetele ma a latou tekonolosi fa’ato’ato’a ae le atoatoa.

Afai na e manu’a po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fa’alavelave e a’afia ai le Tesla Autopilot po’o isi faiga fa’auluuluga aveta’avale I Amerika Samoa, e te mana’omia ni loia fa’apitoa. Vala’au vave le Attorney911 i le 1-1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua. Ua matou sauni e fa’ato’ilalo kamupani sili ona tetele i le lalolagi e maua ai lau taui talafeagai.

Isi Fa’alavelave Tau Ta’avale Afi i Amerika Samoa

E le gata i ituaiga fa’alavelave masani, e ono o’o fo’i tagata o Amerika Samoa i isi fa’alavelave eseese i luga o le auala. O fa’alavelave ta’itasi e iai ona lava lu’itau, mai le fa’amautuina o le nafa i le fa’atautaia o tagi inisiua. O la matou kamupani, o lo’o ta’ita’ia e Ralph Manginello, e silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani i le taulimaina toetoe o ituaiga uma o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Texas atoa. Matou te aumaia le tu’uina atu tutusa ma le malamalama fa’ata’ita’i i mataupu uma, tusa lava po’o a ona tulaga fa’apitoa.

Fa’alavelave Ta’avale Foma’i & Ta’avale Fa’afuase’i:
Pe a tali mai ta’avale fa’afuase’i i se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, latou te masani ona galulue i lalo o tulaga fa’apitoa, ae e le puipuia i latou mai le le fa’aeteete. O fa’alavelave e aofia ai ta’avale falema’i, ta’avale afi, po’o ta’avale leoleo e mafai ona faigata ona o fa’afitauli e pei o le puipuiga a le malo ma mana’oga fa’apitoa mo fa’amatalaga. Afai na e manu’a po’o se tasi e pele ia te oe i se fete’ena’iga ma se ta’avale fa’afuase’i, e mafai e la matou ‘au ona fesoasoani e fa’atautaia nei auala fa’aletulafono fa’apitoa ina ia mautinoa e te maua se taui. Matou te vave lafoina tusi fa’asao ona o nei mataupu o lo’o iai ni taimi fa’atapula’a.

Fa’alavelave i Nofoaga Ta’avale e Fa’aautū:
O nofoaga ta’avale e fa’aautū i Amerika Samoa o nofoaga e masani ona tupu ai fa’alavelave, e masani ona afua mai i le fa’alavelave a le aveta’avale, le tu’uina atu o le ala, po’o le fa’atinoina malosi mo nofoaga e fa’aautū ai. E masani ona taumafai kamupani inisiua e fai mai o nei fa’alavelave o le “50/50” sese, o se pepelo. Matou te su’esu’e ma le fa’aeteete ata mata’ituina, fa’amatalaga a molimau, ma lipoti o fa’aleagaina e fa’amaonia ai le nafa, ma mautinoa ai e fa’asalaina aveta’avale le fa’aeteete i lalo o tulafono o le fa’atusatusaina o le le fa’aeteete a Texas.

Fa’alavelave Va’a ma Fa’alavelave i le Sami:
O itu gataifale o Amerika Samoa e mafai fo’i ona avea ma nofoaga mo fa’alavelave e a’afia ai va’a i fafo po’o va’a fa’afiafia. Pe o se fete’ena’iga i luga o le vai, o se manu’aga a’o galue i luga o se va’a, po’o se pa’u i luga o le va’a, o le tulafono o le gataifale o se matata fa’apitoa e ese mai le tulafono o fa’alavelave i le laueleele. O lo’o iai i la matou ofisa se fa’amaumauga fa’amaonia i lenei vaega; “i se mataupu lata mai, na manu’a le tua o le matou kalani a o sii faamalosi uta i luga o se va’a. Na fa’aalia i la matou su’esu’ega e semanu e fesoasoani atu lava o ia i lenei tiute, ma na mafai ona matou maua se taui tele.” O lenei fa’amaoniga o lo’o fa’aalia ai lo matou agava’a e taulimaina tagi lavelave i le gataifale ma tau mo se taui talafeagai.

Fa’alavelave E-Scooter ma E-Bike:
O le fa’atupula’ia o le ta’uta’ua o sikuta eletise ma uila eletise i Amerika Samoa ua o’o atu ai i le fa’ateleina o fa’alavelave. O tagata ti’eti’e sikuta eletise ma uila eletise, e pei o tagata ti’eti’e uila afi masani, e matua’i vaivai lava i manu’aga tuga pe a fete’ena’i ma ta’avale afi po’o le feagai ma atina’e le lelei ona tausia. I Texas, e iai fa’avasegaga ma tulafono fa’apitoa a uila eletise e fa’atatau i le saoasaoa ma le malosi o le afi. Afai e sili atu se uila eletise nai lo tulaga fa’apitoa, e mafai ona fa’avasegaina o se ta’avale afi, ma suia ai inisiua ma a’afiaga o le nafa. Matou te taulimaina tagi lavelave o fa’aletonu o oloa mo uila eletise fa’aletonu (e pei o afi pa’u po’o taofi fa’aletonu) ma tuliloa tagi faasaga i aveta’avale le fa’aeteete. O se fa’ai’uga a le Portland i Oketopa 2024 e $1.6 miliona mo se tagata ti’eti’e uila eletise na taia e se SUV o lo’o fa’aalia ai le taua o nei mataupu.

Fa’alavelave Ta’avale Fa’apisinisi (Le 18-Uili):
O lenei vaega e aofia ai le tele o ituaiga ta’avale, mai ta’avale toso fa’ato’esa ma loli tetele i loli pusa ma ta’avale faufale. E ui e le o ni 18-uili, o nei ta’avale e sili atu ona lapopo’a ma mamafa nai lo ta’avale pasese, ma o’o atu ai i manu’aga tuga i fete’ena’iga. O lo latou pulea fa’apisinisi e masani ona fa’apea o lo’o maualuga atu tapula’a inisiua ma e sili atu le mana’omia o loia e fai ma sui malolosi. O lo matou poto masani i fa’amasinoga tetele e faasaga i kamupani tetele, e aofia ai le tagi e $10,000,000 o lo’o matou tuliloaina nei, e fa’aaoga sa’o i le tauivi malosi ma nei fa’alapotopotoga tetele.

Tusa lava po’o le a le ituaiga fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi na e o’o i ai i Amerika Samoa, o le mataupu fa’avae o lo’o tumau pea: o se vaega le fa’aeteete e tatau ona fa’asalaina. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le asō i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua. O lo’o ia i matou le poto masani, le malamalama i totonu, ma le tautinoga e tau mo ou aia tatau.

Faiga Fa’atosina Vave pe a Mae’a se Fa’alavelave Tau Ta’avale i Amerika Samoa

O taimi e mulimuli mai ai se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa e mafai ona vevesi ma fa’anoanoa. Peita’i, o gaioiga e te faia – po’o le le faia – i itula taua ma aso pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave e mafai ona matua a’afia ai lou fa’amalologa fa’aletino ma le malosi o lau tagi fa’a-tulafono. I le Attorney911, matou te fa’amalosia oe e tu’u le saogalemu ma le fa’asaoina o fa’amaoniga e taua muamua. O la matou laina 24/7 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 ua fa’atulagaina e tu’uina atu ai se ta’iala fa’anatinati fa’a-tulafono, aua e amata ona leiloa fa’amaoniga taua i nai itula.

Le Taiala e Ola Ai ile 48 Itula Taua: Au Laasaga Vave

Itula 1-6 (Tali Fa’afuase’i mo Fa’alavelave):

• Fa’amuamua le Saogalemu Muamua: Afai e mafai ona e feoai saogalemu, ia ave lau taavale ma oe i se nofoaga saogalemu e mamao ese mai feoaiga. O lou saogalemu e sili atu ona taua nai lo isi mea uma.
• Vala’au Vave le 911: Lipoti le fa’alavelave i le fa’amalosia o tulafono. Talosaga mo fesoasoani fa’afoma’i pe afai e manu’a se tasi, e tusa lava pe foliga la’itiiti manu’aga. O se lipoti a leoleo e fa’atupuina ai se fa’amaumauga aloa’ia, lea e taua tele mo lau tagi.
• Saili se Fesoasoani Faafoma’i: ALU VAVE I LE ER pe afai e te lagona se tiga po’o le le fiafia. O le epinephrine o se fa’amalosi malosi e mafai ona puipuia ai manu’aga tuga. Atonu e sili atu ona e manu’a nai lo lou iloa. O kamupani inisiua o le a fa’aaogaina so’o se fa’atuai i togafitiga fa’afoma’i faasaga ia te oe, ma finau e le ogaoga ou manu’aga.
• Fa’amaumauga uma ma le Mae’ae’a:
  • Pu’e ata o fa’aleagaina uma o ta’avale mai itu uma, latalata ma lautele.
  • Pu’eina le va’aiga o le fa’alavelave, e aofia ai tulaga o le auala, fa’ailoga o feoaiga, auala e fa’ase’e ai, ma so’o se mea e ono talafeagai.
  • Pu’e ata manino o so’o se manu’aga e va’aia o lo’o e maua po’o lau pasese.
  • Fa’aao le fa’amatalaga i luga o lau telefoni e talafeagai ma le fa’alavelave (ae AUA LE TAPEINA SE MEA).
• Fefa’ataua’i Fa’amatalaga: Maua le igoa o le isi aveta’avale, numera telefoni, tuatusi, kamupani inisiua, numera inisiua, numera laisene aveta’avale, ma le numera laisene ta’avale.
• Fa’ailoa Molimau: Fesili i so’o se tagata o lo’o savavali pe latou te va’aia le mea na tupu. Maua o latou igoa ma numera telefoni. E mafai ona taua tele a latou molimau e le fa’alagolago.
• Vala’au le Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911. O la matou laina fa’afuase’i fa’aletulafono o lou laina muamua lea o le puipuiga. Maua se ta’iala fa’anatinati fa’aletulafono A’O LE’I talanoa i so’o se kamupani inisiua.

Itula 6-24 (Fa’asaoina o Fa’amaoniga e Taua Tele):

• Fa’asaoina Fa’amaoniga Fa’aeletoroni: Puipui uma feau tusitusia, vala’au, ata, ma vitio e feso’ota’i ma le fa’alavelave. Aua le tapeina se mea mai lau telefoni. Fa’aao fa’amatalaga o talanoaga ma imeli kopi ia te oe lava mo le teuina.
• Fa’amautu Fa’amaoniga Fa’aletino: Fa’amauina so’o se la’ei ua fa’aleagaina, matatioata, po’o mea totino. Fa’amauina lisiti mo tosoina, ta’avale mautotogi, po’o vaila’au muamua. Aua le toe fa’aleleia lau ta’avale mo le taimi nei – o fa’aleagaina fa’aletino e mafai ona avea ma fa’amaoniga taua.
• Talosaga Fa’amaumauga Fa’afoma’i: Maua kopi o fa’amaumauga uma a le ER/falema’i ma pepa o le fa’amalolo. Fa’atulaga se siakiina ma lau foma’i i totonu o le 24-48 itula.
• Aloese mai Fa’afitauli Inisiua: Mata’ituina so’o se vala’au mai kamupani inisiua. AUA LE tu’uina atu ni fa’amatalaga fa’amaumau mo le taimi nei. AUA LE sainia se mea. AUA LE talia ni ofo o le fa’amautuina. Na’o le fai atu, “E mana’omia ona ou talanoa muamua i la’u loia.”
• Puipuia Lou Fa’asalalauga Lautele: Fa’atupuina uma lau Tala fa’asolopito o fa’asalalauga lautele e fa’alilolilo vave. Aua le fa’asalalau e uiga i le fa’alavelave, ou manu’aga, po’o au gaioiga. E o’o lava i fa’asalalauga mama e mafai ona liliua ma fa’aaoga faasaga ia te oe e tagata su’esu’e inisiua.

Itula 24-48 (Faia o Filifiliga Fa’apitoa):

• Fautuaga Fa’aletulafono: Fa’aaoga lau fautuaga fua ma le Attorney911. Ia sauni au fa’amaumauga. Matou te ta’ita’ia oe i au filifiliga.
• Tu’u lau Loia e Taulimaina Inisiua: Afai e fa’afeso’ota’i oe e kamupani inisiua, ia tu’u sa’o atu i le Attorney911. O lau tali e tatau ona, “O le a fa’afeso’ota’i oe e la’u loia.” Na’o le tu’uina atu o fa’amatalaga fa’avae.
• Tetee i Ofo Fa’amautu Vave: O ofo vave mai kamupani inisiua e masani lava o ofo laiti. E te le mafai ona iloa le tele atoa o ou manu’aga po’o le tau umi mo le taimi nei.
• Fa’amaoniga Fa’aopoopo: Lafoa’i uma ata ma fa’aao i le teuina i le ao ma imeli kopi ia te oe lava po’o se tagata o le aiga fa’atuatuaina. Fausia se fa’asologa o taimi o mea tutupu a’o manino lou mafaufau.

Le Fa’asologa o le Fa’aleagaina o Fa’amaoniga: Aiseā e Taua tele ai Itula Uma

Atonu o le mafua’aga autu lea e tatau ai ona fa’afeso’ota’i le Attorney911 pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, ona o le vave mou atu o fa’amaoniga. E le fa’atali fa’amaoniga; e fa’aleagaina i se fa’asologa masani, ma pe a leiloa, e leiloa e fa’avavau.

• Aso 1-7: O manatuaga o molimau e sili ona maualuga ona amata lea ona mou atu. O fa’amaoniga fa’aletino e pei o auala e fa’ase’e ai ma otaota e mafai ona fa’amamatua.
• Aso 7-30: E masani ona tapeina ata mata’ituina. E masani ona tape e fale suau’u ata i le 7-14 aso. E masani ona tape e faleoloa pe a mae’a le 30 aso. E iai fo’i ni tapula’a mo mea pu’eata feoaiga. O lenei ata vitio taua o le fa’alavelave lava ia po’o mea na o’o atu ai.
• Masina 1-2: O le toe fa’aleleia o ta’avale e fa’aleagaina ai fa’amaoniga fa’aletino mai le fete’ena’iga. E fa’amautu e kamupani inisiua a latou tulaga puipuia.
• Masina 2-6: Mo fa’alavelave i le ta’avale la’u, o fa’amaumauga a le ELD (Electronic Logging Device) ma fa’amatalaga pusa uliuli e mafai ona toe tusia pe tape i totonu o le 30-180 aso.
• Masina 6-12: E faigata ona fa’afeso’ota’i molimau. O avanoa i togafitiga fa’afoma’i (e tusa lava pe talafeagai) e fa’aaogaina faasaga ia te oe.
• Masina 12-24: O lo’o e latalata i le 2-tausaga e muta ai le taimi e faila ai le tagi i Texas, lea e mafai ona fa’amalosia oe e fa’amautu mo se tau la’ititi.

Le Auala e Gaoioi ai le Attorney911 ma le Fa’aeteete Tele

I le Attorney911, o la matou vave tali atu e mautinoa ai le puipuia o lau mataupu mai le amataga lava. I totonu o le 24 itula talu ona maua a matou auaunaga, matou te auina atu tusi fa’asao i PA’AGA uma e talafeagai i Amerika Samoa: le inisiua a le isi aveta’avale, kamupani ta’avale, tagata e ona pisinisi mo ata mata’ituina, ma so’o se isi vaega e ono nafa. O tusi nei e fa’atulafonoina ai latou e fa’asaoina fa’amaoniga taua a’o le’i fa’aleagaina pe tapeina.

O lo’o galulue la matou au su’esu’e i le vaiaso muamua, e su’esu’e le nofoaga o le fa’alavelave, maua lipoti a leoleo ma fa’amaumauga o le 911, fa’amaumau le nofoaga, fesili i molimau, fa’amautu fa’amaumauga fa’afoma’i, ma fa’ailoa uma inisiua.

O aso uma e te fa’atali ai, e mou atu fa’amaoniga, ma e fa’avaivaia lau mataupu. Aua le fa’alavelave i le leiloa o fa’amaoniga taua o lau tagi. Vala’au le Attorney911 NEI: 1-888-ATTY-911. Ia matou ave’esea le mamafa mai ou tauau ina ia mafai ona e taula’i atu i lou toe fa’aleleia.

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law Framework mo Amerika Samoa Residents

O le malamalama i tulaga fa’aletulafono pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa e taua tele mo le puipuia o ou aia tatau ma le mauaina o se taui talafeagai. O tulafono a Texas o lo’o pulea nei mataupu, ma o ona tulafono fa’apitoa e fa’atonu ai taimi taua, le auala e fa’ailoa ai le sese, ma ituaiga o fa’aleagaina e mafai ona e toe maua. O le Attorney911, o lo’o ta’ita’ia e Ralph Manginello, e silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani i lenei faiga fa’aletulafono, ma mautinoa ai e maua e a matou tagata fa’atau i Amerika Samoa le manuia atoatoa o le tulafono.

Le Tulafono Fa’atapula’a Malosi o Texas: Lou 2-Tausaga Tapula’a Taimi

I lalo o le Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, o le tele o tagi mo manu’aga patino mai fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi, fa’apea fo’i ma tagi mo maliu sese, e fa’atatau i se fa’atapula’a o le lua tausaga.

• Manu’aga Tuma’oti: E i ai lou 2 tausaga mai le aso o le fa’alavelave e faila ai se tagiga.
• Maliu Sese: E i ai lou 2 tausaga mai le aso o le oti (lea atonu e le tutusa lava ma le aso o le fa’alavelave) e faila ai se tagiga o maliu sese.
• Osofa’iga i Meatotino: E fa’apena fo’i, e i ai lou 2 tausaga e faila ai se tagiga mo fa’aleagaina o lau ta’avale po’o isi meatotino.

O lenei tapula’a e matua’i. Afai e te le faila se tagiga i totonu o nei tausaga e lua, e te leiloa lou aia tatau fa’aletulafono e tuliga ai se taui e fa’avavau. E matua’i to’aitiiti ni tuusaunoaga, ma e matua’i iloa lelei e kamupani inisiua lenei uati o le taimi, e masani ona fa’aaogaina e fa’amama ai tagata a’afia i ni taui la’itiiti pe a latalata mai le tapula’a o le taimi.

Ae ui i lea, o tagi faasaga i vaega fa’ale-malo (e pei o se pasi o le taulaga, ta’avale leoleo, po’o se fa’alavelave ta’avale a le TxDOT) e sili atu ona pu’upu’u taimi mo le fa’ailoa atu, e masani ona mana’omia se fa’amatalaga aloa’ia i totonu o le 6 masina talu ona tupu le fa’alavelave. O lo’o fa’amamafaina ai le taua tele o le talanoa i se loia vave pe a mae’a so’o se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa.

Le Tulafono Fa’atusatusa a Texas: Le Tulafono o le 51% Tapula’a

I Texas, o le fa’ailoaina o le sese e le faigofie i taimi uma o se tagata e 100% le nafa. E fa’aaoga e Texas se tulafono o le “fa’atusatusaga le fa’aeteete”, e masani ona ta’ua o le Tulafono a le 51% Tapula’a, o lo’o fa’amatala auiliili i le Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001. O lenei tulafono e iai sona a’afiaga tele i lou agava’a e toe maua ai fa’aleagaina:

• Afai e fa’amaonia e te 50% pe laititi fo’i le sese: E mafai lava ona e maua ni fa’aleagaina, ae o lau taui o le a fa’aitiitia e tusa ai ma lou pasene o le sese. Mo se fa’ata’ita’iga, afai e fa’amaonia e te 20% le sese i se mataupu e tau $100,000, e te maua le $80,000.
• Afai e maua e te 51% pe sili atu fo’i le sese: E te le maua se mea lava. Ua matua’i fa’asaina lau tagi.

Aisea e taua ai lea: O kamupani inisiua mo le aveta’avale sese o le a taumafai malosi e tu’uina atu le tele o le tu’ua’iga ia te oe. E o’o lava i se pasene la’ititi e mafai ona fa’aalu ai ou afe i tupe leiloa. O le mea lenei e aoga ai le malamalama fa’apitoa o le Attorney911, aemaise lava mai le tele o tausaga o Lupe Peña o se loia o le puipuiga o inisiua, e ofoina atu ai se avanoa fa’apitoa. Na fa’aalu e Lupe ni tausaga e faia ai finauga o le sese fa’atusatusa mo kamupani inisiua; o lea la, o lo’o ia fa’aaogaina lena malamalama e fa’ato’ilalo ai a latou togafiti e tu’ua’ia ma puipui ai a matou tagata i Amerika Samoa.

Mana’oga Inisiua Ta’avale La’ititi a Texas (30/60/25)

O aveta’avale uma i Amerika Samoa ma Texas atoa e mana’omia fa’aletulafono le iai o inisiua ta’avale la’ititi, e masani ona ta’ua o le 30/60/25:

• $30,000 mo manu’aga tino i le tagata
• $60,000 mo le aofa’i o manu’aga tino i le fa’alavelave
• $25,000 mo fa’aleagaina o meatotino i le fa’alavelave

O le mea fa’anoanoa, o nei tau la’ititi e masani lava ona le lava e ufiufi ai manu’aga tuga. E le gata i lea, o le to’atele o aveta’avale e le o inisiua. E tusa ma le 15.4% o aveta’avale i le ISA e le o inisiua, o lona uiga e tusa ma le 1 i le 7 aveta’avale. O le mafua’aga lea e taua tele ai le iai o lau lava inisiua Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM). O le UM/UIM e mafai ona fa’a’aoga e ufiufi ai au fa’aleagaina pe a leai se inisiua a le aveta’avale sese po’o le le lava o le inisiua. E mafai e le tulafono a Texas ona fa’ataga le fa’aputuina o inisiua UM/UIM i le va o inisiua, lea e mafai ona sili atu ona manuia tagata a’afia.

Dram Shop Liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02)

E le gata i le aveta’avale le fa’aeteete, ae o le tulafono a Texas e mafai ai fo’i e tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave tau ta’avale pe a ‘ona ona tuliloaina tagi faasaga i nofoaga na tu’uina atu le ‘ava malosi i se faiga fa’asolitulafono. O le Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, e ta’ua o le Dram Shop Act, e mafai ai e tagata na a’afia ona taofi pa, faleaiga, po’o isi tagata tu’uina atu e nafa pe afai na latou tu’uina atu i se tagata “e mautinoa le ‘ona” na mafua ai se fa’alavelave. O la matou ‘au o lo’o su’esu’e mae’ae’a pe na fesoasoani le soona fa’aogaina o le ‘ava malosi i lou mafatiaga i Amerika Samoa.

Fa’amasinoga Feterale ma Fa’amasinoga Faigata

Mo ituaiga fa’apitoa o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi, aemaise lava i latuga o lo’o a’afia ai le 18-uili, ta’avale fa’apisinisi tetele, po’o mataupu e iai tagata molia mai fafo o le setete, e ono a’afia le tagi i le pulega feterale. O le taliaina o Ralph Manginello i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, ma le poto masani o la matou ofisa i fa’amasinoga lavelave, fa’ale-atunu’u e pei o le mataupu o le pa o le BP, o lona uiga ua matou sauni e taulimaina nei mataupu tetele a le fa’amasinoga feterale. O lenei poto masani o se auupega taua mo tagata fa’atau i Amerika Samoa o lo’o feagai ma kamupani tetele o lo’o molia.

O le malamalama i nei auiliiliga fa’aletulafono e taua tele i le fausiaina o se tagi manuia mo manu’aga patino i Amerika Samoa. Aua le taumafai e fa’avasega tulafono lavelave a Texas a’o e fa’amalolo mai ou manu’aga. Ia tu’u i le Attorney911 le matou silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani e galulue mo oe. Fa’afeso’ota’i i matou i le asō i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua.

Fa’amaonia o le Nofa’aga ma le Fausiaina o Lau Mataupu mo Tagata A’afia Fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa

Pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa, o le fa’amautuina po’o ai na sese o le ma’a fa’avae lea o so’o se tagi manuia mo manu’aga patino. E le faigofie i taimi uma e pei ona foliga mai ai, ona o kamupani inisiua o le a masani ona finau malosi i le nafa po’o le taumafai e tu’ua’ia. I le Attorney911, matou te fa’aaogaina se auala ma’oti, fa’avae i fa’amaoniga e fa’amaonia ai le le fa’aeteete ma fausia se mataupu malosi mo a matou tagata. O le matou loia lagolago, o Lupe Peña, o lo’o fa’aaogaina lona malamalama i totonu mai tausaga o galuega puipuia o inisiua e va’aia ai ma fa’ato’ilalo lelei togafiti o lo’o fa’aaogaina e kamupani inisiua a le tagata sese.

O Mana’oga E Fa o le Le Fa’aeteete: La Tatou Fa’avae Fa’aletulafono

Ina ia taʻu atu i se isi avetaʻavale poʻo se tagata e nafa mo ou manuʻa i Texas, e tatau ona tatou faʻamaonia faʻaletulafono ni elemene autu se fa:

1. Tiute o le Tausiga: O aveta’avale uma i auala o Amerika Samoa e iai se tiute fa’aletulafono e fa’agaioia a latou ta’avale ma le saogalemu, usita’i i tulafono o feoaiga, tausisia le va’ava’ai lelei, ma pulea a latou saoasaoa. E masani ona sili atu le maualuga o le tiute o le tausiga o aveta’avale fa’apisinisi ona o lo’o pulea e tulafono fa’apitoa a le feterale.
2. Solia le Tiute: Na solia e le aveta’avale sese lana tiute o le tausiga e ala i se gaioiga le fa’aeteete po’o le le faia. E mafai o le saoasaoa tele, le taofi i le moli mumu, fa’alavelave i le ave (e pei o le tusitala a’o aveina le ta’avale), aveina o le ta’avale pe a ‘ona, po’o le le tu’uina atu o le ala.
3. Mafua’aga: O le solia o le tiute a le aveta’avale na mafua sa’o ai ou manu’aga. O lenei mea e aofia ai le fa’amaoniaina e fa’apea “e aunoa ma” a latou gaioiga le fa’aeteete, e te le manu’a. O a matou foma’i fa’apitoa e fesoasoani e feso’ota’i le fa’alavelave i ou manu’aga fa’apitoa.
4. Fa’aleagaina: Na e mafatia i ni mea leaga moni ona o le fa’alavelave. E aofia ai manu’aga fa’aletino, tupe fa’aalu fa’afoma’i, tupe leiloa, fa’aleagaina o meatotino, ma le fa’anoanoa fa’alagona.

Aoina ma le Fa’asaoina o Fa’amaoniga Taua i Amerika Samoa

O le fausiaina o se mataupu malosi e mana’omia ai fa’amaoniga atoatoa. O le lu’itau o le vave mou atu o fa’amaoniga. O le mafua’aga lea e taua tele ai la matou faiga fa’atosina vave (vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911 i totonu o nai itula) pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa. Matou te aoina:

• Fa’amaoniga Fa’aletino: E aofia ai ata o fa’aleagaina uma o ta’avale mai itu uma, auala e fa’ase’e ai, tulaga o auala, fa’ailoga o feoaiga, ma so’o se otaota i le nofoaga o le fa’alavelave. Matou te fa’amaumau vave lenei mea a’o le’i fa’amamaina.
• Fa’amaoniga Fa’amaumau: Lipoti a leoleo o fa’alavelave, fa’amaumauga o vala’au 911, ata o mea pu’eata feoaiga, ma ata mata’ituina taua mai pisinisi lata ane i Amerika Samoa. Manatua, o ata mata’ituina e masani ona tapeina i totonu o le 7-30 aso.
• Fa’amaoniga Fa’aeletoroni: Mo fa’alavelave tau ta’avale la’u, matou te mana’omia fa’amaumauga a le ELD (Electronic Logging Device), fa’amatalaga pusa uliuli (Event Data Recorder), ma telemetry GPS, lea e mafai ona toe tusia pe tape pe a le puipuia vave. Mo ta’avale masani, e mafai ona matou mauaina fa’amatalaga komepiuta o ta’avale.
• Fa’amaoniga Molimau: Fa’amatalaga mai molimau va’aia, au fa’amatalaga auiliili, ma molimau fa’apitoa a tagata fa’apitoa i le toe fa’aleleia o fa’alavelave, foma’i, ma isi tagata fa’apitoa talafeagai.

Fa’ailoaina o Itu e tele e Nafa (ma a Latou Inisiua)

E masani lava, o le sili atu ma le tasi le tagata e mafai ona nafa mo se faʻalavelave, aemaise lava i mataupu lavelave. O le faʻailoaina o itu uma e nafa e taua tele aua e mafai ona iai ni inisiua eseese o vaega taʻitasi, lea e faʻateleina ai le avanoa e maua ai se taui atoatoa.

• Fa’alavelave i le Ta’avale La’u: E le gata i le aveta’avale, matou te su’esu’e le kamupani ta’avale (mo le fa’aagaga le fa’aeteete po’o le tausiga), le tagata e uta le uta, le faufale o le ta’avale, ma kamupani tausiga.
• Fa’alavelave Rideshare: E mafai ona fa’alautele le nafa i le aveta’avale o le rideshare, le kamupani rideshare (Uber/Lyft), ma isi aveta’avale sese, e fa’atatau i le “vaega” o le rideshare i le taimi o le fa’alavelave.
• Fa’alavelave Inumia Ava Malosi: E le gata i le aveta’avale ‘ona, o pa, faleaiga, po’o isi nofoaga e mafai ona latou nafa i lalo o le Texas’s Dram Shop Act pe afai na latou ‘au’una i se tagata “e mautinoa le ‘ona.”

O le tele o vaega e nafa e mafai ona matou fa’ailoaina, o le tele fo’i lea o auala tatou te maua e tuliloaina ai se taui atoatoa ma talafeagai mo a tatou tagata fa’atau i Amerika Samoa. O a tatou i’uga e tele miliona tala, e aofia ai i mataupu e afua mai i le maliu sese ona o ta’avale la’u, e fa’amaonia ai lo tatou agava’a e fa’atautaia nei tulaga lavelave.

Fa’aaogaina Molimau Fa’apitoa

I le tele o mataupu o fa’alavelave matuia, e le mafai ona aoga se molimau fa’apitoa. E galulue le Attorney911 ma se fa’alapotopotoga o tagata poto masani fa’aaloalogia e fa’amalosia lau mataupu:

• Tagata Toe Fausiaina o Fa’alavelave: Ina ia su’esu’e le va’aiga, fa’aleagaina o ta’avale, ma isi fa’amaumauga e iloa ai pe na fa’apefea ona tupu le fa’alavelave ma po’o ai na sese.
• Foma’i Fa’apitoa: Ina ia fa’afeso’ota’i manino au manu’aga i le fa’alavelave, fa’amatala le tele o lou tulaga fa’ama’i, ma fa’ata’ita’ia mana’oga fa’afoma’i i le lumana’i.
• Tagata Fuafuaina o Olaga: Mo manu’aga leaga tele (e pei o le TBI po’o manu’aga o le ua), o nei tagata fa’apitoa e fa’atatau le tau o le tausiga i le olaga atoa, meafaigaluega fesoasoani, ma isi mana’oga.
• Tagata Fa’apitoa i Galuega: Ina ia iloilo le leiloa o le malosi e maua ai tupe ma le a’afiaga o ou manu’aga i lou agava’a e galue.
• Economists: Ina ia fa’atatau le tau o le taimi nei o tupe maua leiloa i le lumana’i ma isi fa’aleagaina tau le tamaoaiga.

E ala i le fa’aputuina ma le mae’ae’a o fa’amaoniga uma ma fa’aaogaina molimau fa’apitoa, matou te fausiaina se mataupu e le mafa’ato’ilaloina e mautinoa ai le taui sili mo a matou tagata fa’atau i Amerika Samoa. Aua le tu’uina atu lou toe fa’aleleia i le fa’alavelave. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua i le asō.

Fa’aleagaina & Taui: Le Mea e Mafai ona E Maua Pe a Mae’a se Fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa

Pe a e manu’a i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa, o le malamalama i le tele atoa o fa’aleagaina e mafai ona e toe maua e taua tele. E le gata i pili fa’afoma’i, o fa’alavelave e masani ona mafua’aga ai ni fa’afitauli tuga fa’aletino, fa’alagona, ma fa’aletupe. I le Attorney911, o lo’o ta’ita’ia e Ralph Manginello ma fa’amalosia e le malamalama loloto o Lupe Peña i le fa’atatauina o inisiua, matou te fuaina ma le fa’aeteete ou leiloa uma ina ia mautinoa e te maua le taui sili. O a matou i’uga e tele miliona tala, e aofia ai mo manu’aga fai’ai ma tipi ese vaega o le tino, e fa’aalia ai lo matou tautinoga i le mauaina o le tau atoa o tagi uma.

Malamalama i Ituaiga Fa’aleagaina i Texas

I Texas, o tagata na a’afia i manu’aga patino e mafai ona tuliloaina ni vaega autu se tolu o fa’aleagaina:

1. Fa’aleagaina Fa’aletupe (Leai se Fa’atapula’a i Texas)

O ia mea o lo’o fa’atusalia ai tupe leiloa fa’aletino e mafai ona fa’atatauina ma le sa’o. E leai ni tapula’a i fa’aleagaina fa’aletupe i Texas:

• Tupe Fa’aalu Fa’afoma’i na Uma: Tupe fa’aalu uma mai le aso o le fa’alavelave seia o’o mai i le taimi nei, e aofia ai asiasiga i le potu fa’afuase’i, nofoaga i le falema’i, ta’otoga, asiasiga a le foma’i, togafitiga fa’aletino, vaila’au, ma meafaigaluega fa’afoma’i.
• Tupe Fa’aalu Fa’afoma’i i Le Lumana’i: Va’aiga mamao mo togafitiga fa’ifai pea, ta’otoga i le lumana’i, toe fa’aleleia umi, ma le tausiga fa’afoma’i i le olaga atoa e mana’omia e ou manu’aga.
• Tupe Leiloa na Uma: Tupe maua ua leiloa mai le le galue ona o ou manu’aga po’o le toe fa’aleleia mai le fa’alavelave.
• Leiloa o le Malosi e Maua Ai Tupe i Le Lumana’i: Taui mo lou fa’aitiitia o le malosi e maua ai tupe i le lumana’i pe afai e te le mafai ona toe fo’i i lau galuega muamua pe galue i le tulaga tutusa.
• Osofa’iga i Meatotino: Le tau e toe fa’aleleia pe toe sui ai lau ta’avale ua fa’aleagaina, fa’apea fo’i ma so’o se isi meatotino totino ua fa’aleagaina i le fa’alavelave.
• Tupe Fa’aalu Fa’afuase’i: So’o se isi tupe fa’aalu e feso’ota’i ma fa’alavelave, e pei o felauaiga i fa’amatalaga fa’afoma’i, suiga talafeagai o fale, po’o tupe fa’aalu mo fesoasoani i le fale pe afai e te le mafai ona faia galuega o aso ta’itasi.

2. Fa’aleagaina e Le Fa’aletupe (E leai se fa’atapula’a i Texas)

O le leiloa e le mafai ona fa’amatalaina e a’afia tele ai le tulaga lelei o lou olaga ae e le faigofie ona tu’u i ai se tau fa’apitoa. E leai ni tapula’a i fa’aleagaina e le fa’aletupe i Texas, sei vagana ai mataupu o fa’aletonu fa’afoma’i (e le feso’ota’i ma fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi).

• Tiga ma Mafatiaga: Taui mo le tiga faaletino ua e o’o i ai mai ou manu’aga, uma i le taimi ua tuana’i ma le mea o le a e oo i ai i le lumana’i.
• Fa’anoanoa Fa’alagona: Mafatiaga fa’alogona, popole, fa’anoanoa, fefe, ma le Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) e afua mai i le faigata o le fa’alavelave ma mea na tutupu mulimuli ane.
• Le Malosi o le Tino: Taui mo le leiloa o le malosi o le tino, le atoatoa, ma fa’atapula’aina o au gaioiga o aso ta’itasi.
• Suiga Fa’aletino: Fa’aleagaina mo ma’ila tumau, manu’aga va’aia, po’o suiga i lou foliga va’aia.
• Leiloa o Le Faauluuluga o le Aiga: Taui mo a’afiaga le lelei i au fusi fa’aipoipo po’o aiga, e aofia ai le leiloa o le fa’atasi, alofa, ma le lagolago.
• Leiloa o le Fiafia o le Olaga: Fa’aleagaina mo lou le mafai ona auai i fa’afiafiaga, gaioiga fa’afiafia, po’o fa’atasiga fa’aagafesootai na e fiafia i ai muamua ona o ou manu’aga.

3. Tulafono Fa’asalapoto / Fa’a’oa’o (Fa’atapula’a i Texas)

O nei tulafono fa’asalalau e le o fa’amoemoe e totogi ai oe mo se leiloa, ae ia fa’asalaina le tagata molia mo amioga leaga tele, leaga, po’o le le fa’aeteete tele ma ia taofia ai amioga fa’apena i le lumana’i.

• E masani ona sailia ni fa’asalaga fa’asalapoto i mataupu e aofia ai le ave ta’avale pe ‘ona, aua e masani ona fa’aalia ai se “le amana’ia lototoa” i le saogalemu o isi.
• I Texas, o fa’asalaga fa’asalapoto e fa’atapula’a i le $200,000 pe fa’alua fo’i le tau o fa’aleagaina fa’aletupe fa’atasi ai ma se aofa’iga e tutusa ma fa’aleagaina e le fa’aletupe (ma le vaega e le fa’aletupe e fa’atapula’a i le $750,000), po’o fea lava e la’ititi.

Tulaga Fa’amautu i Ituaiga Manu’aga: Le Mea e Fa’amoemoe I Ai

E ui e tulaga ese mataupu uma, o le tau masani o le fa’amautuina e a’afia e le ogaoga o manu’aga ma lo latou a’afiaga i lou olaga. E iai i la matou kamupani poto masani i mataupu e aofia uma ituaiga:

• Fa’alavelave Vaivai o Nino (Whiplash, Fa’aletonu, Faaoso): O tau fa’afoma’i e mafai ona amata mai le $6,000-$16,000, ma tupe leiloa mai le $2,000-$10,000. O tau fa’amautu e masani ona o’o i le va o le $15,000-$60,000.
• Ivi Gau (Faigofie): O tau fa’afoma’i mai le $10,000-$20,000, tupe leiloa mai le $5,000-$15,000. O tau fa’amautu e amata mai le $35,000-$95,000.
• Ivi Gau (Mana’omia Ta’otoga – ORIF): O tau fa’afoma’i e mafai ona o’o atu i le $47,000-$98,000, ma tupe leiloa mai le $10,000-$30,000. O tau fa’amautu e amata mai le $132,000-$328,000.
• Disc Herniated (Togafitiga Fa’atatau): O tau fa’afoma’i e mafai ona o’o i le $22,000-$46,000, ma tupe leiloa mai le $8,000-$25,000. O tau fa’amautu e amata mai le $70,000-$171,000.
• Disc Herniated (Mana’omia Ta’otoga): O tupe fa’aalu fa’afoma’i i le taimi ua tuana’i e mafai ona o’o atu i le $96,000-$205,000, fa’atasi ai ma tau fa’afoma’i tetele i le lumana’i. O le leiloa o le malosi e maua ai tupe e mafai ona matua tele. O tau fa’amautu e amata mai le $346,000-$1,205,000.
• Fa’alavelave Fai’ai (Feololo i le Ogaoga): O tupe fa’aalu fa’afoma’i muamua e mafai ona $198,000-$638,000, fa’atasi ma le tausiga fa’afoma’i i le lumana’i (e ala i se fuafuaga o le tausiga o le olaga) e amata mai le $300,000-$3,000,000+. O le leiloa o le malosi e maua ai tupe e mafai ona tele miliona. O tau fa’amautu e amata mai le $1,548,000-$9,838,000. Na maua e la matou ofisa se “taui e tele miliona tala mo se tagata na maua i se manu’a fai’ai ma le fa’aletonu o le vaai”, o lo’o fa’aalia ai lo matou agava’a i nei mataupu faigata.
• Manu’aga i le Tulua i le Spine / Fa’aletonu o le Tino: O tau o le tausiga i le olaga atoa e amata mai i miliona (e.g., $2.5M-$5.25M+ mo le paraplegia) i le tele o miliona ($6M-$13M+ mo le tetraparese maualuga). O tau o le fa’amautu e amata mai i le $4,770,000-$25,880,000.
• Amputation: O tau fa’afoma’i muamua e maualuga ($170,000-$480,000), ae o mea fesoasoani ma le tausiga i le olaga atoa e mafai ona fa’aopoopoina le $500,000-$2,000,000+. Na taulimaina talu ai nei e la matou ofisa se mataupu lea “na manu’a le vae o le matou kalani i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale. O manu’a pipisi i togafitiga na o’o atu ai i se tipi ese laitiiti. Na fa’amautuina lenei mataupu i le tele o miliona.” O tau fa’amautu e amata mai le $1,945,000-$8,630,000.
• Maliu Sese: O fa’aleagaina fa’aletupe mo mea e pei o tau o le falelauasiga ma tupe lagolago leiloa, fa’atasi ai ma fa’aleagaina e le fa’aletupe mo le leiloa o le mafutaga ma le fa’anoanoa fa’alagona, e mafai ona amata mai le $1,910,000-$9,520,000. Na fesoasoani la matou ofisa i “le tele o tagata manu’a ma aiga o lo’o feagai ma mataupu o maliu sese e feso’ota’i ma ta’avale e maua ai le tele o miliona tala i le taui.”

Le Nuclear Verdict Trend: O se Leo mo le Fa’amasinoga Tonu

E fefefe kamupani inisiua i “fa’ai’uga fa’atama’i”—fa’ai’uga a le juri e sili atu i le $10 miliona. E ta’ita’ia e Texas le atunu’u i nei fa’ai’uga, ma le 207 o ia fa’ai’uga e silia i le $45 piliona mai le 2009-2023. O fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi e 23.2% o fa’ai’uga fa’atama’i uma. O fa’alavelave lata mai i Texas e pei o le fa’ai’uga e $105 miliona faasaga i se Amazon DSP, le fa’ai’uga e $44.1 miliona i le fa’aputu o le I-35, ma le fa’ai’uga e $37.5 miliona faasaga i Oncor Electric o lo’o fa’amamafaina ai lenei mea moni. O lenei tulaga e fa’amalosia ai ofisa loia e pei o le Attorney911, ona o kamupani inisiua e masani ona sauni e fa’amautu mo tau maualuga e ‘alo’ese ai mai le tulaga lamatia o se fa’ai’uga tele a le juri, aemaise lava pe a feagai ma se ofisa loia e iai sona igoa fa’amaonia e sauni e faia se fa’amasinoga.

O le manumalo i le taui sili e uiga atu i le fa’amaonia ma le filigā o au leiloa o lo’o iai ma le va’aia o ou mana’oga i le lumana’i. Aua le fa’atagaina kamupani inisiua e fa’aitiitia lou mafatiaga i Amerika Samoa. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se iloiloga fua, atoatoa o lau tagi.

Inisiua Counter-Intelligence System: Manumalo i a Latou Tusi Ta’aloga i Amerika Samoa

Pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa, e le na’o le toe fa’aleleia o ou manu’aga; o le fa’atautaia lea o se malae taua e faasaga i kamupani inisiua faigata o lo latou sini autu o le fa’aitiitia o a latou totogi. E le o latou i lau itu, tusa lava pe foliga faauo i latou. O le mea lea e tu’uina atu ai e le Attorney911 se avanoa e le mafaatusalia mo a matou tagata i Amerika Samoa. O le matou loia lagolago, o Lupe Peña, na fa’aaluina ni tausaga o galue mo ofisa puipuia a le atunu’u, ma a’oa’oina togafiti uma, auala uma, ma polokalama uma latou te fa’aaogaina e fa’aitiitia ai tagi. O lea la, o lo’o ia fa’aaogaina lena malamalama i totonu e tau ai MO oe, ae le o le faasaga ia te oe.

Le Tusi Ta’aloga a le Kamupani Inisiua: 6 Togafiti Latou te Fa’aaogaina Faasaga ia te Oe

E fa’aosooso e kamupani inisiua se fuafuaga e fa’amaopoopoina lelei mai le taimi lava e tupu ai se fa’alavelave. O togafiti masani ia latou te fa’aaogaina, ma le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911 ia i latou:

Togafiti #1: Fa’afeso’ota’iga Vave & Fa’amatalaga Fa’amaumauga

O le a le latou faia: I totonu o aso — o nisi taimi o itula — talu ona e fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, o le a fa’afeso’ota’i oe e le au fa’avasega. O le a latou fa’aali le agaalofa, ma fai mai latou te mana’o lava e “fa’alogo i lau itu o le tala” ina ia “fa’atautaia lau tagi.” O le a latou fa’amalosia oe e tu’uina atu se fa’amatalaga fa’amaumau.

Le mea o lo’o latou faia moni: Latou te taumafai e te le loto i ai e fai se tala e mafai ona fa’aliliuina ma fa’aaogaina faasaga ia te oe mulimuli ane. A’o e fa’aaogāina vaila’au fa’ama’i, fenumia’i, po’o le te’i, o le a latou fesili i fesili ta’ita’i ua fa’atulagaina e fa’aalia ai ni fa’amatalaga e fa’aitiitia ai ou manu’aga, tu’ua’ia, po’o le fa’apea na e mafua ai le fa’alavelave. O mea uma e te fai atu ai o lo’o fa’amaumauina ma o le a fa’aaogaina e fai ma auupega faasaga i lau tagi.

Le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911: AUA LE tu’uina atu se fa’amatalaga fa’amaumauga i le inisiua a le isi aveta’avale e aunoa ma se loia. O la matou fautuaga o le tu’uina atu lea o vala’au uma ia i matou. O le taimi lava e te fa’afaigaluegaina ai le Attorney911, matou te avea ma ou leo. Matou te taulimaina feso’ota’iga uma, ma mautinoa e te le fa’alavelave i lau mataupu. E iloa e Lupe a latou fesili ona na ia fesili atu mo ni tausaga; o lea la, na te mautinoa ua e puipuia.

Togafiti #2: Talosaga Fa’amautu Vave (Le Tau Laiti)

O le a le latou faia: I vaiaso e mae’a ai lau fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i i Amerika Samoa, e mafai ona latou ofoina atu se fa’aleleia la’itiiti, vave – e masani lava $2,000-$10,000. O le a latou fa’atupuina se fa’anatinati fa’asese, ma fai mai “o le a muta vave lenei ofo” po’o le “o le matou ofo mulimuli lea.” E foliga mai e fa’anofo lelei pe a tele au pili fa’afoma’i ma tupe leiloa.

Le mea o lo’o latou faia moni: Latou te fa’amoemoe o le a e talia a’o le’i iloa le tele moni o ou manu’aga. O le taimi lava e te sainia ai se fa’amatu’u, ua tapunia lau tagi e fa’avavau. Afai e fa’aalia mulimuli ane i se MRI se disc herniated e mana’omia ai se ta’otoga e $100,000, o le a e nafa mo na tupe fa’aalu.

Le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911: Matou te fautuaina tagata fa’atau AUA LE fa’amautu a’o le’i o’o i le Fa’aleleia Fa’afoma’i Sili (MMI) – o le tulaga lea ua fa’amalolo ai ou manu’aga i le mea e gata ai le mafai fa’afoma’i. Se’ia o’o i lena taimi, e le mafai ona iloa le tau moni o lau mataupu. E iloa e Lupe o nei ofo vave e masani lava ona matua fa’aitiitia; na ia fa’atatauina na ofo la’ititi mo ni tausaga. Matou te le fa’atagaina latou te fa’aaogaina lou vaivai i Amerika Samoa.

Togafiti #3: Le Su’esu’ega Fa’afoma’i “Tuto’atasi” (IME)

O le a le latou faia: O le a latou mana’omia oe e va’ai i se tasi o latou foma’i “tuto’atasi” mo se “Su’esu’ega Fa’afoma’i Tuto’atasi.”

Le mea o lo’o latou faia moni: O nei foma’i e le o ni tagata tuto’atasi. E masani ona totogiina i latou e kamupani inisiua (mai le $2,000-$5,000 i le su’ega) mo se su’esu’ega vave, fa’anatinati. E filifilia i latou aua latou te fa’aauau pea ona fa’atupu lipoti e fa’aitiitia ai manu’aga, fa’atatau i “ma’i ua iai,” po’o le fa’ailoa atu o lo’o e sauni e galue vave. O latou fa’ai’uga e toetoe lava o taimi uma latou te lagolagoina le kamupani inisiua.

Le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911: Matou te sauniuni ma le mae’ae’a oe mo mea e fa’amoemoeina i se IME. Matou te mautinoa e tu’uina atu au fa’amaumauga fa’afoma’i atoa i le taimi muamua, ma leai se avanoa mo le foma’i e tu’ua’ia ai le le iloa. O le mea taua, e iloa e Lupe ia foma’i IME fa’apitoa ma a latou fa’aituau aua na ia fa’afaigaluegaina i latou mo le puipuiga. Matou te iloa a latou tusi ta’aloga ma le auala e fa’asaga atu ai i a latou lipoti fa’aituau ma a matou lava foma’i fa’apitoa.

Togafiti #4: Fa’atuai ma le Fa’amalosia Tau Tupe

O le a le latou faia: O kamupani inisiua o le a fa’atuai ma le loto i ai lau mataupu. O le a latou tuai ona tali atu, “leiloloa” pepa, po’o le talosaga mo le tele o “fa’amatalaga fa’aopoopo,” ma le fa’amoemoe e te fa’amoemoeina.

Le mea o lo’o latou faia moni: Latou te iloa o lo’o tele au pili fa’afoma’i, tupe leiloa, ma fa’afitauli tau tupe. Latou te talitonu afai latou te fa’atuai mo se taimi umi, o le a e matua’i o’ona i le fa’aletupe e talia ai se vaega la’itiiti o le tau moni o lau mataupu.

Le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911: Matou te le ta’alo i la latou ta’aloga fa’atali. Matou te faila tagi e fa’atulaga ni taimi fa’atapula’a ma fa’agasolo le mataupu. Matou te sauniuni mataupu ta’itasi e pei o le a faia se fa’amasinoga, ma fa’aalia i le kamupani inisiua e matou te maumaua’i ma e le fa’amalosia i se fa’amautu taugofie. E malamalama Lupe i fa’atuai fa’atuai ona na ia fa’aaogaina i le avea ai ma loia puipuia; na te iloa tonu pe o afea ma pe fa’apefea ona toe fa’afo’i.

Togi #5: Mata’ituina & Mata’ituina Fa’asalalauga Lautele

O le a le latou faia: Latou te fa’afaigaluegaina tagata su’esu’e totino e mulimuli ia te oe, pu’eina au gaioiga, ma matua’i mata’ituina au tala fa’asolopito o fa’asalalauga lautele (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, ma isi) i Amerika Samoa.

Le mea o lo’o latou faia moni: Latou te su’eina so’o se gaioiga e mafai ona latou fa’aaogaina e fai mai e le ogaoga tele ou manu’aga e pei ona e fai mai ai. O se ata o lo’o e ‘ata’ata, punou, po’o le savali fa’atasi ma lau maile e mafai ona avea ma fa’aaogaina mai lana tala’aga ma fa’aalia o se “fa’amaoniga” e te le’o matua’i manu’a. O le a latou pu’eina mea uma e te fa’asalalauina oe ma au uo, ma fa’aaoga fo’i le fa’ailoaina o foliga e su’e oe.

Le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911: Matou te lapata’i atu i tagata fa’atau uma ina ia fa’alilolilo uma tala fa’asolopito o fa’asalalauga lautele, ‘alo’ese mai le fa’asalalau e uiga i a latou fa’alavelave po’o gaioiga, ma fa’atonu uo ma aiga ina ia faia fo’i fa’apena. O le malamalama o Lupe iinei e taua tele: “Ua ou iloiloina le selau ma selau o ata mata’ituina ma fa’asalalauga lautele o se loia mo le puipuiga. O le mea moni lenei: E ave e kamupani inisiua gaioiga mama mai le tulaga masani. Latou te maluluina se ata tasi o oe o gaioia “masani” ma le amanaiaina le 10 minute o oe o tauivi a’o le’i ma pe a uma. Latou te le’o tusia lou olaga – latou te o lo’o fausia ni mea e fana ai oe.” Matou te a’oa’oina oe i le auala e puipuia ai oe lava mai nei togafiti fa’amalosi.

Togi #6: Fa’ailoga Fa’atusatusaina (Aveese le Tu’ua’iga)

O le a le latou faia: Fa’aaogaina le tulafono a Texas e 51% le pa, o le a taumafai kamupani inisiua e tu’uina atu tu’ua’iga sili ia te oe mo le fa’alavelave, e tusa lava pe leai ni fa’amaoniga.

Le mea o lo’o latou faia moni: E tusa lava pe le mafai ona latou maua le 51% o le tapula’a e fa’asaga atoa atu ai lau tagi, o le tu’uina atu ia te oe le 10% po’o le 20% o le sese e matua’i fa’aitiitia ai a latou totogi. E sefulu pasene le sese i le $100,000 tagi e fa’aalu ai oe le $10,000. O se fuafuaga taua e fa’asaoina ai a latou tupe.

Le auala e fa’asaga atu ai le Attorney911: Matou te faia ni su’esu’ega malolosi o le nafa, e fa’aaogaina tagata toe fa’aleleia o fa’alavelave, fa’amatalaga a molimau, ma lipoti a leoleo e fa’amaonia ai le le fa’aeteete o le isi aveta’avale. E iloa e Lupe a latou finauga fa’atusatusaina o le sese aua na ia faia mo le puipuiga. O lea la, o lo’o ia fa’aaogaina lena malamalama e puipui ai a matou tagata i Amerika Samoa, ma mautinoa e sa’o le tu’uina atu o le tu’ua’iga.

Polokalama Colossus & Fa’atatauina o Tagi: Le Tu’u i Totonu

O le tulaga o Lupe Peña e matua malosi lava pe a o’o mai i le auala e fa’atatauina ai e kamupani inisiua lau tagi. E matua masani o ia i polokalama e pei o le Colossus, o se polokalama fa’atatauina o tagi e fa’aogaina e kamupani inisiua tetele e pei o Allstate, State Farm, ma Liberty Mutual. E maua e Colossus fa’amaumauga e pei o numera o manu’aga, ituaiga togafitiga, ma tau fa’afoma’i, ona tu’uina atu lea o se fautuaga mo le tau fa’amautu.

Le Fa’afitauli: E masani ona fa’apipi’iina le Colossus e fa’aitiitia le tau o manu’aga tuga, e fa’aaogaina numera o manu’aga e fa’atatau i manu’aga e le ogaoga tele (“fa’anoanoa vaivai o tino” vs. “discs herniated”). E a’oa’oina tagata fa’avasega e fa’aaoga numera aupito maualalo. E iloa e Lupe le auala e tu’uina atu ai au fa’amaumauga fa’afoma’i i se auala e fa’aosoosoina ai ni fa’atatau maualuga i totonu o Colossus, po’o le iloa fo’i pe o le fa’atatauina o le polokalama e matua la’ititi lava ma mana’omia ai matou e talosaga mo le tele o mea. E malamalama fo’i o ia i le “fa’atulagaina o tupe teu”—o tupe e fa’atulaga e se kamupani inisiua mo lau tagi—ma le auala e fa’ateleina ai lena tupe teu e ala i le fa’amasinoga malosi, ma maua ai e i matou le tele o le malosi.

Aua le fa’atagaina le tusi ta’aloga a le kamupani inisiua e fa’atonu le i’uga o lau tagi fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa. E te mana’omia se loia e iloa a latou gaioiga uma a’o le’i latou faia. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua. Ia avea lo matou avanoa i totonu o lou malosi.

Encyclopedia o Malamalamaga Fa’afoma’i: Malamalama i Ou Manu’aga Pe a Mae’a se Fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa

Pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa, o lou fa’amalologa fa’aletino e taua tele. O le malamalama i le natura o ou manu’aga, lo latou a’afiaga umi, ma le auiliiliga o togafitiga fa’afoma’i e taua tele e le gata mo lou soifua maloloina ae fa’apea fo’i mo le malosi o lau tagi mo manu’aga patino. E masani ona taumafai kamupani inisiua e fa’aitiitia le ogaoga o ou manu’aga po’o le fa’apea e le feso’ota’i ma le fa’alavelave. I le Attorney911, o lo’o ia i matou le malamalama loloto fa’afoma’i-fa’aletulafono, o lo’o galulue fa’atasi ma foma’i fa’apitoa e fa’amaumau ma le sa’o lou tulaga ma mautinoa ua malamalama atoatoa ma fa’atatauina lou va’aiga fa’afoma’i i lau tagi mo taui.

Manu’aga Fai’ai (TBI)

TBIs o se tasi lea o manu’aga sili ona tuga ma e masani ona le malamalama i ai mai fa’alavelave tau ta’avale. E mafai ona amata mai i se concussione la’ititi i se fa’aleagaina tuga o le fai’ai.

• Fa’ailoga Vave: Leiloa o le iloa (e o’o lava i se taimi pu’upu’u), fenumia’iga, le masani, pua’i, tiga ulu tuga, tautala va’ai, fa’amoega.
• Fa’ailoga Tuai (Taua tele Fa’aletulafono): O le tele o fa’ailoga TBI e le fa’aalia se’ia o’o i itula po’o aso foi pe a mae’a le fa’alavelave. E mafai ona aofia ai le fa’atupula’ia o le tiga ulu, pua’i fa’aauau, fa’amoega fou, suiga o amio, suiga o lagona, fa’alavelave moe, ma’ale’ale i le malamalama/leo, ma fa’afitauli o le mafaufau. E masani ona fai mai kamupani inisiua e le feso’ota’i fa’ailoga tuai ma fa’alavelave, ae matou te fa’aaogaina foma’i fa’apitoa e fa’amatala ai lenei fa’agasologa masani.
• Fa’alavelave umi: O fa’ailoga fa’aauau e mafai ona aofia ai le post-concussive syndrome (tiga ulu, faufau mo masina/tausaga), fa’ateleina le lamatiaga o le tu’unanau, fa’anoanoa (e a’afia ai le 40-50% o tagata ma’i TBI), popole, ma fa’aletonu tumau o le mafaufau e a’afia ai le mafaufau ma le taula’i.

Na maua e le matou ofisa se “taui e tele miliona tala mo se tagata na mafatia i se manu’a fai’ai ma le fa’aletonu o le vaai” i se mataupu o fa’alavelave tau fafie, ma fa’aalia ai lo matou malamalama loloto i le a’afiaga leaga o le TBI ma se tautinoga e tau mo le tausiga i le olaga atoa.

Manu’aga o le Ua (SCI)

O SCI o manu’aga leaga tele e suia ai le olaga, ma e masani ona i’u ai i le fa’aletonu o le tino. O le tulaga o le manu’aga e fa’amauina ai le tele o le fa’aletonu:

• Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Ua):
  • C1-C4 (Ua Maualuga): Quadriplegia (vaega uma e fa o le tino ua fa’aletonu), e masani ona fa’alagolago i le masini e manava ai, ma mana’omia le tausiga 24/7. O tau i le olaga atoa e mafai ona sili atu i le $6 miliona-$13 miliona+.
  • C5-C8 (Ua Lalo): Quadriplegia ma ni galuega o le lima/aao, e masani ona fa’alagolago i le nofoa uili.
• Thoracic Spine (T1-T12, Tua i le Ogatotonu): Paraplegia (fa’aletonu o le tino pito i lalo), fa’alagolago i le nofoa uili, ma le fa’atonuina o le tino e eseese.
• Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Tua Pito I Lalo): Eseese tulaga o le vaivai/fa’aletonu o vae, o le le lelei o le manava/fua e masani ona tupu.

Fa’alavelave Lua: E le gata i le fa’aletonu, o le SCI e o’o atu ai i fa’alavelave tuga e pei o manua pupula, fa’afitauli o le manava, tiga fa’aauau, ma se fa’aitiitia tele o le ola. Matou te galulue fa’atasi ma tagata fa’atatauina le olaga e fa’ata’ita’ia le tele o miliona tala o le tau o nei manu’aga i le olaga atoa.

Tipi Ese Vaega o le Tino

O le tipi ese o se vaega o le tino, pe o se mea na tupu fa’afuase’i i le nofoaga po’o se mea e mana’omia e ta’otoga mulimuli ane ona o manu’aga nutimomomoina po’o manu’aga pipisi, o se taunu’uga loloto ma suia ai le olaga o fa’alavelave tuga.

• Ituaiga: E mafai ona i luga (lima, limafo’i, tamatamailima) po’o lalo (i luga o le tulivae, lalo o le tulivae), ma o le tipi ese o vae pito i lalo e sili atu ona masani i fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi.
• Tiga Lima Fa’afagogo: O le tele (80%) o tagata ua tipi ese vaega o le tino e lagona le tiga fa’afagogo—o le lagona o le tiga i le vaega o le tino e le o toe i ai. E masani lava ona mana’omia togafitiga tiga i le olaga atoa.
• Attorney911 Mataupu: Na matou taulimaina ma le manuia se mataupu lea “na manu’a ai le vae o le matou kalani i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale. O manu’a pipisi i le taimi o togafitiga na o’o atu ai i se tipi ese la’ititi. Na fa’amautuina lenei mataupu i le tele o miliona.” O le i’uga lenei o lo’o fa’amamafaina ai lo matou agava’a e maua ai se taui mo mana’oga fa’afoma’i faigata, e aofia ai prosthetics (lea e mafai ona tau $5,000-$100,000 ma mana’omia le toe suiina fa’aauau) ma le toe fa’aleleia tele.

Manu’aga Mu

O fa’alavelave e aofia ai afi (e pei o le pa’u o le tane suau’u) po’o le fa’afeso’ota’iga ma vaila’au e mafai ona mafua ai manu’aga tuga mu.

• Fa’avasegaga: E amata mai i le tikeri muamua (luga) e o’o i le tikeri lona fa (e o’o i maso/ivi).
• Ogaoga: O mu o lo’o ufiufi ai se pasene tele o le tino (e.g., sili atu i le 20%) e masani ona mana’omia le umi o le nofo i le falema’i, tele o ta’otoga, ma togafitiga fa’apitoa i nofoaga mo mu.
• A’afiaga Umi: O mu tuga e o’o atu ai i le fa’aleagaina, ma’ila tumau, leiloa o le galuega, tiga fa’aauau, ma le matua’i fa’alavelave fa’ale-mafaufau. O le a’afiaga o lo matou ofisa i le fa’amasinoga o le pa o le BP o lo’o tu’uina atu ai se malamalamaaga i le taulimaina o mataupu e iai vaega tuga o mu.

Disc Herniated

O diski o lo’o gau o se mea masani i fa’alavelave ma e mafai ona mafua ai le tiga ogaoga o le tua ma le ua.

• Fa’agasologa o Togafitiga: E masani ona amata i togafitiga fa’atatau (vaila’au, togafitiga fa’aletino, togafitiga), aga’i atu i togafitiga fa’alavelave (tui epidural), ma atonu e i’u ai i le ta’otoga o le ua (microdisectomy po’o le fusion), lea e mafai ona tau $50,000-$120,000.
• A’afiaga Umi: E o’o lava i togafitiga, o le tele o tagata e o’o i tiga fa’aauau, fa’atapula’aina tumau, ma le le mafai ona toe fo’i i galuega fa’aletino mamafa, ma o’o atu ai i le leiloa tele o le malosi e maua ai tupe.

Manu’aga Vaivai o A’ano (Whiplash, Fa’aletonu, Fa’alautele)

E ui e masani ona le amanaiaina e kamupani inisiua, o manu’aga “vaivai o a’ano” e mafai ona tuga ma fa’alavelave.

• Fa’aituau a Inisiua: E fa’aitiitia e kamupani inisiua nei manu’aga ona e faigata ona va’aia i X-ray ma e mafai ona fa’atulaga fa’ailoga. E iloa e Lupe Peña, le matou loia lagolago, a latou tusi ta’aloga iinei, ona na ia finauina tonu nei manatu mo kamupani puipui.
• Ogaoga: 15-20% o tagata na a’afia i le whiplash e maua’a i le tiga fa’aauau. O nei manu’aga e mafai ona puipuia tagata mai le faia o galuega po’o gaioiga o aso ta’itasi, ma o’o atu ai i le le atoatoa umi. O le fa’amaumauina lelei ma togafitiga fa’afoma’i tumau e taua tele.

Manu’aga Fa’a-Mafaufau

O faigata o se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi e sili atu nai lo manu’aga fa’aletino. O manu’aga fa’a-mafaufau e taua tele ma e mafai ona taui:

• PTSD: 32-45% o tagata na a’afia i fa’alavelave latou te maua fa’ailoga PTSD, e aofia ai le popole i le aveina o le ta’avale, miti le agaaga, fa’afitauli, ma amioga ‘alo’alo.
• Isi Tulaga: O le fa’anoanoa, popole, ma le fa’anoanoa fa’alagona o ni tali masani.
• Fa’aleagaina: Matou te tuliloa taui mo le fa’anoanoa fa’alagona, mafatiaga fa’alogona, ma le a’afiaga i lou fiafia uma i le olaga.

O lau malaga fa’afoma’i pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa e faigata, ae e le tatau ona e fa’atautaia na’o oe. E galulue le Attorney911 ina ia mautinoa o vaega uma o ou manu’aga—fa’aletino ma fa’a-mafaufau, ua tuana’i ma le lumana’i—ua fa’amaumau ma le mae’ae’a ma tu’uina atu mo le taui sili. Vala’au matou i le asō i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua.

Aisea e Filifili ai le Attorney911: Lou Avanoa Le Sa’o i Amerika Samoa

Pe a e feagai ma le faigata o mea e tupu mulimuli ane i se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa, o le filifiliga o le loia sa’o e mafai ona avea ma filifiliga sili ona taua e te faia. E te mana’omia le sili atu nai lo se loia; e te mana’omia se loia malosi e tu’u fa’atasi le poto masani, malamalama i totonu, ma le tu’uina atu le fa’amaoni. Ua tu ese le Attorney911 e ala i ni avanoa fa’apitoa se lima e fa’aaogaina i taimi uma e maua ai le tele o miliona tala ma fa’amautu ai le fa’amasinoga tonu mo a matou tagata. Matou te vala’aulia oe e fa’ata’ita’i le ese’esega o le Attorney911.

Avanoa 1: O se Tagata Totonu o le Puipuiga Inisiua i Lou Itu

O le mea lea e matua’i tu’u ese ai le Attorney911 mai toetoe o isi ofisa loia uma o manu’aga patino i Amerika Samoa. O la matou loia lagolago, o Lupe Peña, na fa’aaluina ni tausaga o galue i se ofisa puipuia a le atunu’u, ma fa’afa’ataga ai o ia lava i togafiti e fa’aaoga ai e kamupani inisiua tetele e fa’atatau, fa’atuai, ma te’ena tagi. E malamalama o ia i la latou tusi ta’aloga atoa.

Le Uiga Lea Mo Lau Mataupu:

• Va’ai Mamao: E mafai ona matou va’aia a latou togafiti a’o le’i latou fa’aaogaina ona na fa’aaogaina e Lupe.
• Malamalama i le Fa’atatauina: Matou te iloa le auala latou te fa’atatauina ai tagi i totonu, e aofia ai algorithms o polokalama e pei o Colossus, ma le auala e fa’asaga atu ai i a latou taumafaiga e fa’aitiitia le tau o lau mataupu.
• Malamalama i Foma’i IMĒ: E iloa e Lupe po’o fea “foma’i tuto’atasi” e sili ona fiafia i ai kamupani inisiua – ona sa ia fa’afaigaluegaina i latou. E malamalama o ia i a latou fa’avasegaga ma le auala e fa’asaga atu ai i a latou fa’ai’uga.
• Malosiaga Fa’atalanoaga: Matou te tautala gagana lava e tasi ma i latou, ma maua ai i matou se avanoa e le mafaatusalia i fefa’atalanoaga ma mautinoa latou te va’aia ma le ogaoga lau tagi.

E leai se isi ofisa loia i Amerika Samoa e mafai ona ofoina atu lenei tulaga o le avanoa fa’ata’ita’i. E pei ona fa’asoa e le tagata fa’atau o Donald Wilcox talu ona te’ena e se isi kamupani lana mataupu, “Ona ou maua lea o le telefoni mai Manginello…Na ou maua se telefoni e sau e aumai lenei siaki matagofie.” O le malosi lea o le malamalama i totonu.

Avanoa 2: Ose Fa’amaumauga o Fa’ai’uga e Tele Miliona Tala

O a tatou i’uga e le na’o ni tu’ua’iga; o mea moni fa’amaonia ia. Ua iai i le Attorney911 se tala fa’asolopito fa’amaonia o le mauaina o taui tetele mo tagata afaina o lo’o feagai ma manu’aga e suia ai le olaga:

• Manu’aga Fai’ai: Na matou maua se “miliona miliona tala o le taui mo le tagata na mafatia i se manu’a fai’ai ma le fa’aletonu o le vaai,” ma fa’aalia ai lo matou agava’a e taulimaina mataupu o manu’aga mata’utia fa’asaga i tagata molia tetele ma lavelave.
• Tipiesega: Mo se tagata na tipi ese le vae ina ua uma se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale, “na fa’amautuina lenei mataupu i le tele o miliona,” ma mautinoa ai le saogalemu fa’aletupe i taimi uumi mo se tasi o a matou tagata i Amerika Samoa.
• Maliu Sese Ta’avale Tipi: “I le Attorney911, ua fesoasoani la matou loia o manu’aga patino i le tele o tagata manu’a ma aiga o lo’o feagai ma mataupu o maliu sese e feso’ota’i ma ta’avale e maua ai le tele o miliona tala i taui,” o lo’o fa’ailoa mai ai lo matou agava’a e fa’atautaia tulafono feterale o ta’avale ma fa’ato’ilalo kamupani tetele o lo’o molia.

O nei toe maua e tele miliona tala e le na’o ni fuainumera; o ni fa’amaoniga ia o la matou lagolago le fa’amavae ma la matou tautinoga e mautinoa e maua e a matou tagata i Amerika Samoa le fa’amasinoga tonu nai lo se taui la’ititi.

Avanoa 3: Poto Masani i le Fa’amasinoga Feterale & Tomai Fa’apitoa i Fa’amasinoga Faigata

E mana’omia e nisi fa’alavelave fa’aletulafono se ‘au loia e mafai ona galue i tua atu o potu fono a le setete. Na taliaina Ralph Manginello i le U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, ma o lo’o iai i la matou ofisa le poto masani i nisi o fa’amasinoga sili ona lu’itau i le atunu’u, e aofia ai le avea ma “se tasi o nai ofisa i Texas na a’afia i fa’amasinoga pa o le BP.”

Aisea e Taua Ai Lenei Mea Mo Oe:

• Mataupu Lavelave: O fa’alavelave e aofia ai le 18-uili po’o kamupani tetele e masani ona aofia ai tulafono feterale (e pei o le FMCSA) ma e mafai ona siitia atu i le fa’amasinoga feterale. E iai lo matou poto masani e fa’amalosi ai i nei fa’alapotopotoga.
• Amioga Malolosi: O lo matou poto masani i le tauivi faasaga i kamupani e piliona tala le tau i mataupu e pei o le pa o le BP o lona uiga matou te le fefefe i ‘au puipuia e lava punaoa.
• Avanoa Fa’ata’ita’i: O le poto masani i le fa’amasinoga feterale o se meafaigaluega malosi faasaga i kamupani inisiua o lo’o masani ona ‘alo’ese mai fa’afitauli ma le ono maua o taui tetele a le juri i le pulega feterale.

O lenei tulaga o le poto masani o se auupega taua mo tagata fa’atau i Amerika Samoa o lo’o feagai ma mataupu tuga ma lavelave.

Avanoa 4: Fa’alogo Manatu Tuma’oti Le Mavae – O Oe o se Aiga Iinei

E matua’i ese le Attorney911 mai kamupani tetele o lo’o fa’amautu vave mataupu lea e te ono lagona ai na’o oe se numera. Ua fausia le Attorney911 i luga o se fa’avae o feso’ota’iga patino ma le tu’uina atu fa’apitoa. Matou te fa’atapula’a ma le loto i ai a matou mataupu e mautinoa ai e maua e tagata uma i Amerika Samoa le taula’iga ma le tausiga e tatau ai.

• E pei ona fa’amauina malosi e Chad Harris, “E te le’o se fa’afitauli ia i latou ma e te le’o na’o se tagata fa’atau…O oe o le AIGA ia i latou.”
• Na toe ta’ua e Ambur Hamilton lea, ma fa’apea, “Ou te le’i lagona lava o a’u o ‘na’o se isi mataupu’ o lo’o latou galulue ai.”
• O lo matou feso’ota’iga tumau e masani ona viia. Na ta’ua e Dame Haskett, “Feso’ota’iga tumau ma leai se taimi na ou vala’au ai ma le maua se tali manino…na aapa atu Ralph lava ia.”
• O a matou aufaigaluega fa’apitoa, e pei o Leonor, Melanie, ma Zulema, e fesoasoani tele i lenei auala patino. Na fa’amatala e Stephanie Hernandez le auala “na aapa mai Leonor ia te a’u…Na ia aveesea uma le mamafa o o’u popolega mai o’u tauau.”

E te galue sa’o lava ma loia poto masani, o Ralph Manginello ma Lupe Peña, o lo’o masani lelei i lau mataupu nai lo le tele o tagata e feso’ota’i atu ia te oe.

Avanoa 5: Fa’avae i luga o le Totogifuapau – Leai se Tulaga Lamatia, Leai se Tau Muamua

Matou te malamalama pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, e tetele le fa’anoanoa tau tupe. O le mafua’aga lea o lo’o galulue ai le Attorney911 i luga o le fa’avae o le totogifuapau.

• Fautuaga Fua: O lau fautuaga muamua ia i matou e 100% fua ma e leai se noataga.
• Leai ni Tau Muamua: E te le totogia se tupe e amata ai lau mataupu.
• “Tatou Te Le Togia Se’i Vagana Ua Tatou Manumalo”: O a matou totogifuapau o se pasene o le taui matou te toe maua mo oe. Afai matou te le manumalo i lau mataupu, e te le aitalafu i matou se mea. Matou te totogiina uma tau o le mataupu, ma aveesea le avega tau tupe mai ou tauau.

O lona uiga e mafai ona e sailia le fa’amasinoga tonu e aunoa ma le fa’aopoopoina o ou popolega tau tupe. E fa’atatauina lo matou manuia sa’o i lou manuia.

A e feagai ma se fa’alavelave fa’afuase’i fa’aletulafono i Amerika Samoa, e te mana’omia se ofisa e iai ni fa’aiuga fa’amaonia, malamalama i totonu, ma le tu’uto’atasi patino. Vala’au le Attorney911 i le asō i le 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se fautuaga fua, e leai se lamatiaga. O matou o le avanoa le talafeagai e te mana’omia. Hablamos Español.

Fesili e Masani ona Fesiligia e uiga i Fa’alavelave Tau Ta’avale Afi i Amerika Samoa

Pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa, e tele fesili e ono oso a’e i lou mafaufau. Ua matou tu’ufa’atasia tali i popolega masani e fesoasoani e fa’amaninoina fa’afitauli o le fa’agasologa o tulafono. I le Attorney911, matou te talitonu o tagata fa’atau malamalama o ni tagata fa’atau fa’amalosia, o le mafua’aga lea matou te ofoina atu ai punaoa atoatoa, e aofia ai la matou ala YouTube (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) ma le “Attorney 911 The Podcast,” e fesoasoani ia te oe e malamalama ai i ou aia tatau.

Gaioiga Vave Pe a Mae’a se Fa’alavelave

1. O le a se mea e tatau ona ou faia vave pe a mae’a se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale i Amerika Samoa?
Afai na e a’afia i se fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa, ia fa’amuamua le saogalemu: vala’au le 911 mo le fa’amalosia o tulafono ma fesoasoani fa’afoma’i. Pu’e ata tele o fa’aleagaina o ta’avale, ou manu’aga, ma le vaaiga. Fefa’ataua’i fa’amatalaga ma le isi aveta’avale. Maua fa’amatalaga a molimau. Aua le ta’utino le sese pe tu’uina atu se fa’amatalaga fa’amaumauga i so’o se kamupani inisiua. Ona vala’au lea o le Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 mo se ta’iala fa’anatinati fa’aletulafono.

2. E tatau ona ou vala’au leoleo e tusa lava pe la’ititi se fa’alavelave?
Ioe, vala’au pea leoleo. O se lipoti a leoleo e taua tele mo le fa’amaumauina o le fa’alavelave mai se itu lona tolu e le fa’aituau. I Texas, e mana’omia oe fa’aletulafono e lipoti fa’alavelave e aofia ai manu’aga, maliu, po’o fa’aleagaina o meatotino e sili atu i le $1,000.

3. E tatau ona ou sailia se fesoasoani fa’afoma’i pe afai ou te le lagona se tiga?
MAI IE IAI. E mafai e le epinephrine ona puipuia le tiga, ma o manu’aga tuga e pei o le concussions po’o le toto i totonu e ono le vave fa’aalia fa’ailoga. O se fa’atuai i le sailia o togafitiga fa’afoma’i e mafai fo’i ona fa’aaogaina e kamupani inisiua e finau e le ogaoga ou manu’aga pe le’i mafua mai i le fa’alavelave. Va’ai vave i se foma’i i se fale fa’afoma’i i Amerika Samoa.

4. O le a se fa’amatalaga e tatau ona ou aoina i le nofoaga na tupu ai le fa’alavelave?
Aoina le igoa o le isi aveta’avale, telefoni, tuatusi, numera laisene aveta’avale, ma fa’amatalaga inisiua. Mata’ituina le ituaiga, fa’ata’ita’iga, lanu, ma le numera laisene o la latou ta’avale. Aoina igoa ma numera telefoni o so’o se molimau. Pu’e ata tele o mea uma mai le tele o itu.

5. E tatau ona ou talanoa i le isi aveta’avale pe ta’utino le sese?
Na’o le fa’aliliuina o fa’amatalaga talafeagai. AUA LE talanoaina le sese, fa’atoese, pe fai atu “Fa’amāgalō mai,” ona o nei fa’amatalaga e mafai ona fa’auiga o se ta’utinoga o le sese ma fa’aaogaina faasaga ia te oe. Na’o le pipii atu i mea moni ma nofo filemu.

6. E faapefea ona ou maua se kopi o le lipoti o le faalavelave?
E mafai ona e maua le lipoti a leoleo mai le ofisa e tali atu ai i Amerika Samoa, po’o le Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS). E mafai foi ona fesoasoani lau loia ia te oe e maua lenei pepa.

Taulimaina Kamupani Inisiua

7. E tatau ona ou tu’uina atu se fa’amatalaga fa’amaumauga mo inisiua?
I le inisiua a le isi aveta’avale: LEAI. Leai lava e aunoa ma se loia. I lau inisiua lava ia (mo tagi UM/UIM po’o PIP): E ia te oe se tiute e galulue fa’atasi, ae e sili pea le fa’afeso’ota’i muamua le Attorney911. E mafai ona matou fautuaina oe i mea e saogalemu e tu’uina atu.

8. Pe a fa’afeso’ota’i a’u e le inisiua a le isi aveta’avale, o le a se mea e tatau ona ou fai atu ai?
Ta’u atu ia i latou: “E mana’omia ona ou talanoa muamua i la’u loia.” Na’o le tu’uina atu o lou igoa ma le aso o le fa’alavelave. Aua le talanoaina ou manu’aga, auiliiliga o le fa’alavelave, po’o le sese. Tu’u atu uma isi feso’ota’iga i le Attorney911.

9. E tatau ona ou talia le va’aiga a le kamupani inisiua?
Leai. O la latou va’aiga e masani lava o se ofo la’ititi, ua fa’amoemoe e fa’asaoina a latou tupe. O le a tauivi le Attorney911 mo le tau atoa ma talafeagai o lau ta’avale (toe fa’aleleia po’o le toe sui) ma fa’aleagaina o meatotino.

10. E tatau ona ou talia se ofo fa’amautu vave?
Aua le talia lava se ofo fa’aautu vave a’o le’i malamalama lelei i le tele o ou manu’aga ma a’o le’i o’o i le Fa’aleleia Fa’afoma’i Sili (MMI). O le taimi lava e te sainia ai se fa’amatu’u, e le mafai ona e toe sailia se isi taui, e tusa lava pe fa’atupula’ia ou manu’aga pe mana’omia se ta’otoga fa’afuase’i.

11. E faapefea pe afai e le o inisiua le isi aveta’avale po’o le le lava foi o inisiua?
O le mea lea e taua tele ai lau lava inisiua Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM). E mafai e le UM/UIM ona totogi oe mo ou manu’aga ma mea leaga pe afai e leai se inisiua a le aveta’avale sese po’o le le lava o inisiua. Matamata i la matou vitio: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” i le https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Aisea e mana’o ai le inisiua e fa’atagaina a’u e sainia se fa’atagaga fa’afoma’i?
Latou te fia maua le avanoa atoa i lau tala fa’asolopito fa’afoma’i atoa—e le na’o fa’amaumauga e feso’ota’i ma fa’alavelave—ina ia su’e ai so’o se ma’i ua iai muamua e mafai ona latou fa’aaogaina e te’ena pe fa’aitiitia le tau o lau tagi. Aua le sainia se fa’atagaga fa’afoma’i e aunoa ma le iloiloina ma fa’atapula’a lona lautele e lau loia.

Le Fa’agasologa Fa’aletulafono

13. E iai se a’u mataupu o manu’aga patino?
E foliga mai e iai sau mataupu o manu’aga patino pe afai o le le fa’aeteete o se isi itu na mafua ai lau fa’alavelave, ma o’o atu ai i manu’aga po’o fa’aleagaina, ma o lo’o iai se inisiua e mafai ona toe maua mai ai. Matou te ofoina atu fautuaga fua e iloilo ai lou tulaga fa’apitoa. Matamata i la matou vitio: “E Ia te A’u se Mataupu Lelei?” i le https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims

14. O afea e tatau ai ona ou fa’afaigaluegaina se loia o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale?
Vave. E vave ona mou atu fa’amaoniga (o ata mata’ituina e masani lava ona tape i totonu o le 7-30 aso), ma kamupani inisiua o lo’o amata ona fausia se mataupu faasaga ia te oe mai le aso muamua. O le vave ona e vala’au i le Attorney911 i le 1-888-ATTY-911, o le lelei fo’i lea o le puipuia o ou aia tatau ma le fa’asaoina o fa’amaoniga.

15. E fia le taimi ou te fa’atali ai e faila (tapula’a o le taimi)?
I Texas, e masani ona i ai lou 2 tausaga mai le aso o le fa’alavelave e faila ai se tagi mo manu’aga patino, ma le 2 tausaga mai le aso o le maliu mo se tagi o maliu sese. O le le fa’ataunu’uina o lenei taimi e fa’asaina tumau ai lou aia tatau e toe maua ai se taui.

16. O le a le Comparative Negligence ma fa’apefea ona a’afia ai a’u?
Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule (the 51% Bar Rule). Afai e te 50% pe la’ititi ifo foi le sese, e mafai pea ona e maua ni fa’aleagaina, ae o le a fa’aitiitia e tusa ai ma lou pasene o le sese. Afai e te 51% pe sili atu foi le sese, e te le maua se mea. E masani lava ona taumafai kamupani inisiua e tu’ua’ia oe.

17. O le a se mea o le a tupu pe afai na ou sese i se vaega?
E mafai lava ona e maua se taui pe afai o lau vaega o le sese e 50% pe laititi ifo. O le a fa’aitiitia le aofa’i o au fa’aleagaina e tusa ai ma lena pasene. O la matou galuega o le fa’aitiitia lea o so’o se sese ua tu’uina atu ia te oe. O le tala’aga o Lupe Peña i le puipuiga o inisiua o se avanoa taua tele iinei, ona e malamalama o ia i le auala e fa’ato’ilalo ai a latou finauga.

18. O le a o’o atu la’u mataupu i le fa’amasinoga?
E ui o le tele o mataupu o manu’aga patino e fa’amautu a’o le’i o’o i le fa’amasinoga, o le Attorney911 e saunia mataupu uma e pei o le a o’o lava i le fa’amasinoga. O lenei sauniuni mo se fa’amasinoga e maua ai e matou se malosi tele i fefa’atalanoaga ma kamupani inisiua, aua latou te iloa matou te le fefefe e tau mo a matou tagata. Matamata i la matou vitio: “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” i le https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc

19. O le a le umi e fa’amoemoeina e fa’ato’aatoa lau mataupu?
E eseese le taimi e fa’atatau i le ogaoga o lou manu’aga. Matou te le fa’amautu se’ia o’o ua e maua le Fa’aleleia Fa’afoma’i Aupito Maualuga (MMI), lea e mafai ona alu i le 6 masina mo manu’aga la’itiiti po’o le 18-24 masina (po’o le sili atu) mo manu’aga tuga ma faigata tele. Matou te fa’amuamua lou soifua maloloina ma le toe fo’i atoatoa nai lo se fa’amautu vave, ma le tau maualalo.

20. O le a le fa’agasologa fa’aletulafono i laasaga ta’itasi?
E masani lava, o le fa’agasologa e aofia ai su’esu’ega muamua, togafitiga fa’afoma’i i le MMI, tu’uina atu o tusi talosaga i inisiua, fefa’atalanoa’iga, ma afai e mana’omia, faila se tagi, su’esu’ega, fefa’atalanoa’iga, ma atonu o le fa’amasinoga. Matamata i la matou vitio: “O le a le Fa’agasologa mo se Tagiga o Manu’aga Tuma’oti?” i le https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneVVs

Taui & Fa’aleagaina

21. E fia le tau o la’u mataupu?
O le tau o lau mataupu e fa’alagolago i le tele o mea: le ogaoga o ou manu’aga, pili fa’afoma’i (ua tuana’i ma le lumana’i), tupe leiloa ma le malosi e maua ai tupe, le atoatoa tumau, ma le inisiua avanoa. E mafai ona amata mai le $15,000 mo manu’aga la’itiiti i le tele o miliona mo manu’aga leaga tele e pei o manu’aga fai’ai po’o amputations.

22. O a ituaiga fa’aleagaina e mafai ona ou toe maua?
E mafai ona e toe maua fa’aleagaina fa’aletupe (pili fa’afoma’i, tupe leiloa, fa’aleagaina o meatotino) ma fa’aleagaina e le fa’aletupe (tiga ma mafatiaga, fa’anoanoa fa’alagona, fa’aletonu, leiloa o le fiafia i le olaga). I mataupu o le le fa’aeteete tele, e mafai fo’i ona tu’uina atu fa’asalaga fa’asalapoto.

23. E mafai ona ou maua se taui mo le tiga ma le mafatia?
Ioe. O le tiga ma le mafatia o se vaega taua o tagi mo manu’aga patino i Texas. E masani lava e leai se tapula’a i nei fa’aleagaina e le fa’aletupe i mataupu o fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi.

24. E faapefea pe afai e iai se a’u ma’i ua iai muamua?
E mafai lava ona e toe maua pe afai na fa’aosoosoina pe fa’atupula’ia lou ma’i ua iai muamua e le fa’alavelave. E ta’ua lenei o le tulafono o le “ma’i fuamama”—o le tagata molia e taliaina le tagata a’afia e pei ona iai. Matou te galulue fa’atasi ma foma’i fa’apitoa e fa’amaonia le fa’atupula’ia o lou tulaga ona o le fa’alavelave.

25. E tatau ona ou totogiina lafoga i la’u taui?
E masani lava, o taui mo manu’aga fa’aletino ma tupe fa’aalu fa’afoma’i e LE TOTOGIA LAFOGA. Peita’i, o fa’asalaga fa’asalapoto, pe afai e tu’uina atu, e masani ona totogiina lafoga. Fa’afeso’ota’i se foma’i tausi lafoga mo fautuaga fa’apitoa.

26. E faapefea ona fuafua le tau o la’u tagi?
O le tau o le tagi e fuafua i le iloiloga o au tupe fa’aalu fa’afoma’i (ua tuana’i ma le lumana’i), tupe maua leiloa, fa’ailoga o le le atoatoa tumau, le a’afiaga i lou olaga i aso ta’itasi, ma le fefa’atalanoa’iga ma tagata fa’avasega o inisiua e fa’aaogaina fa’ata’ita’iga mai fa’ai’uga ma taui fa’atusatusa. O a matou i’uga e tele miliona tala o lo’o fa’amaonia ai lo matou agava’a e fa’atatauina ma maua ai se taui tele.

Mafutaga Loia

27. E fia le tau o loia mo fa’alavelave tau ta’avale?
Attorney911 e galue i luga o le totogifuapau. O lona uiga e te le totogia se mea muamua. O la matou totogifuapau, e masani lava 33.33% pe afai e fa’amautu le mataupu a’o le’i faia se fa’amasinoga ma le 40% pe afai e o’o i le fa’amasinoga, e na’o le aoina lava pe afai matou te manuia i le mauaina o se taui mo oe. Matamata i la matou vitio: “E Fa’apefea Ona Galue Totogifuapau?” i le https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

28. O le a le uiga o le “leai se totogifuapau se’i vagana ua tatou manumalo”?
O lona uiga e te le totogia se mea se’i vagana ua matou maua se taui mo oe. Matou te totogiina fo’i tau o le mataupu uma, e pei o totogifuapau mo le failaina o pepa, totogifuapau mo tagata poto masani, ma tupe fa’aalu mo su’esu’ega. Afai matou te le manumalo, e te le aitalafu ia i matou se mea.

29. O le a le tele o taimi ou te maua ai fa’afouga?
Attorney911 e fa’amuamua feso’ota’iga tumau. E pei ona fai mai le kalani o Dame Haskett, “Feso’ota’iga tumau ma leai se taimi na ou vala’au ai ma le maua se tali manino.” Matou te fa’ailoa atu oe i laasaga uma o le ala.

30. O ai o le a pulea moni la’u mataupu?
I le Attorney911, e te galue sa’o lava ma loia poto masani, e aofia ai Ralph Manginello ma Lupe Peña, ae le na’o tagata fesoasoani fa’aletulafono. Matou te talitonu i le tausiga fa’apitoa. Na ta’ua e le kalani o Chad Harris, “E te le’o na’o se tagata fa’atau…O oe o le AIGA ia i latou.”

31. E faapefea pe afai ua ou fa’afaigaluegaina se isi loia?
E ia te oe le aia tatau e sui ai loia pe afai e te le fiafia i lau loia o lo’o iai nei. Afai e le o feso’ota’i lau loia pe le o tauivi mo ou aia tatau, e mafai ona matou talanoaina le puleaina o lau mataupu. E pei ona fa’asoa e le kalani o Greg Garcia, “I le amataga sa ia te a’u se isi loia ae na ia tu’uina la’u mataupu e ui lava na mafai e le ofisa loia a Mangiello ona fesoasoani ia te a’u.”

Mea Sese e ‘Alo’eseina & Manatu Faaopoopo

32. O a mea sese masani e mafai ona fa’aleagaina la’u mataupu?
O mea sese masani e aofia ai: tu’uina atu se fa’amatalaga fa’amaumauga e aunoa ma se loia, talia se fa’amautu la’itiiti vave, fa’atuai togafitiga fa’afoma’i, iai ni avanoa i togafitiga, fa’asalalau e uiga i lau fa’alavelave i luga o fa’asalalauga lautele, po’o le sainia o fa’aumau e aunoa ma se iloiloga fa’aletulafono. Matamata i la matou vitio: “O Mea Sese a Tagata Fa’atau e Mafai ona Fa’aleagaina Lou Mataupu” i le https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

33. E tatau ona ou fa’asalalau e uiga i la’u fa’alavelave i luga o fa’asalalauga lautele?
LEAI. Fa’alilolilo uma au tala fa’asolopito o fa’asalalauga lautele vave. Aua le fa’asalalau e uiga i le fa’alavelave, ou manu’aga, po’o so’o se gaioiga. E matua’i mata’ituina e kamupani inisiua fa’asalalauga lautele mo so’o se mea e mafai ona latou fa’aaogaina e fa’aitiitia ai lau tagi.

34. Aisea e le tatau ai ona ou sainia se mea e aunoa ma se loia?
O fa’amalolo e tumau ma fa’amalosia. O fa’atagaga fa’afoma’i e mafai ona tu’u atu ai le avanoa e le fa’atapula’aina i lau tala fa’asolopito fa’afoma’i fa’alilolilo. O ofo fa’amautu e fa’ai’u. O le taimi lava e sainia ai, o nei pepa e mafai ona matua’i fa’aleagaina lou agava’a e toe maua ai se taui atoatoa, ma e masani lava e le mafai ona toe faia.

35. E fa’apefea pe afai e le’i vave ou va’aia se foma’i?
Vaaiga vave i se tasi NEI. Fa’amatala atonu na e te’ina ma e le’i iloa le ogaoga o ou manu’aga muamua; e masani lava ona tuai fa’ailoga. E ui o le tuai e mafai ona fa’atupu ai se lu’itau, e mafai lava ona matou fesoasoani ia te oe e tuliloaina lau tagi.

36. E mafai ona ou sui loia pe afai ou te le fiafia i la’u loia o lo’o iai nei?
IOE. E ia te oe le aia tatau e tuli ai lau loia i so’o se taimi pe afai e te le fiafia i lau loia o lo’o iai nei. Afai e le o feso’ota’i lau loia, e le o tauivi mo ou aia tatau, po’o le fa’amalosia o oe e fa’amautu mo se tau la’ititi, o lo’o ia te oe le aia tatau e sui ai. Ua pulea e le Attorney911 le tele o mataupu mai isi loia. E pei ona fai mai Greg Garcia: “I le amataga sa ia te a’u se isi loia ae na ia tu’uina la’u mataupu e ui lava na mafai e le ofisa loia a Mangiello ona fesoasoani ia te a’u.” Vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911 e talanoaina le sui.

37. E fa’apefea pe afai o le inisiua o la’u lava inisiua (UM/UIM claim)?
O tagi Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) e faasaga i LOU inisiua pe a leai se inisiua a le isi aveta’avale po’o le le lava o inisiua. E tusa lava pe o lau lava inisiua, e masani ona tauivi lau kamupani inisiua ma lau tagi e pei o le inisiua a le isi aveta’avale. E te mana’omia ni loia fa’apitoa i Amerika Samoa. E mafai e le tulafono a Texas ona tu’u fa’atasi (stacking) inisiua UM (UM/UIM), lea e taua tele mo le mauaina o le taui sili. O le malamalama o Lupe i inisiua e sili ona taua i lenei tulaga.

38. E fa’apefea ona fa’atatauina le tiga ma le mafatia?
E masani ona fa’atatauina le tiga ma le mafatia e ala i le fa’aaogaina o le auala fa’atele: o au tupe fa’aalu fa’afoma’i atoa fa’ateleina i se fa’atele (eg, 1.5 i le 5), fa’atasi ai ma tupe fa’apitoa mo tupe leiloa. O le fa’atele e fa’alagolago i le ogaoga o le manu’aga, le tumau, ma le a’afiaga o le olaga. Mo manu’aga tuga e mana’omia ai ta’otoga, po’o le o’o atu ai i se tipi ese vaega (e pei o le fa’amautuina e tele miliona tala na matou maua i le mataupu o le tipi ese o le vae o le matou kalani), e mafai ona sili atu le maualuga o le fa’atele, ma atagia ai le a’afiaga loloto ma le tumau i le tulaga lelei o le olaga. E malamalama Lupe i le auala tonu e fa’atatauina ai ia fa’atele e kamupani inisiua, ma matou te fa’aaogaina lena malamalama mo a matou tagata.

39. E fa’apefea pe afai na ou tu’i e se ta’avale a le malo (pasi o le taulaga, ta’avale leoleo, ma isi)?
O tagi a le malo e iai ni tulafono fa’apitoa ma malolosi. E tatau ona e faila se fa’amatalaga aloa’ia i totonu o le 6 masina (e sili atu ona pu’upu’u nai lo le 2-tausaga tapula’a o le taimi) e fa’asaoina ai lau tagi. E masani ona iai fo’i le puipuiga a le malo, lea e fa’atapula’a ai lo latou nafa, ae e iai tuusaunoaga. O nei mataupu e matua faigata tele ma mana’omia ai ni loia poto masani. O le silia ma le 25 tausaga o le poto masani o Ralph Manginello e aofia ai fa’amasinoga faasaga i vaega fa’ale-malo. Vala’au vave le 1-888-ATTY-911 pe afai e te talitonu na mafua e se ta’avale a le malo lau fa’alavelave i Amerika Samoa.

40. E faapefea pe afai na sola ese le isi aveta’avale mai le nofoaga na tupu ai le fa’alavelave (tu’i ma sola)?
Afai e sola ese se isi aveta’avale ina ua uma ona tu’ia oe i Amerika Samoa, faila se lipoti a leoleo vave; o se solitulafono tuga lenei. O lau inisiua Uninsured Motorist (UM) i lau inisiua lava ia ua fa’atulagaina mo lenei tulaga tonu. O fa’amaoniga taua, aemaise lava ata mata’ituina mai pisinisi lata ane i le nofoaga, e na’o le teuina mo se taimi pu’upu’u (e masani lava 7-30 aso). Matou te auina atu tusi fa’asao vave e fa’amautu ai lea.

41. E fa’apefea pe afai o a’u o se tagata malaga fa’asolitulafono—e mafai lava ona ou faila se tagi?
IOE. O lou tulaga o le tagata malaga i le Iunaite Setete E LE A’afia ai lou aia tatau e maua ai se taui mo manu’aga na mafua mai i le le fa’aeteete o se isi. E ia te oe aia tatau fa’aletulafono e tasi e pei o so’o se isi tagata nonofo. O lau mataupu e taulimaina ma le fa’alilolilo malosi. O la matou ‘au, e aofia ai Lupe Peña o lo’o lelei le tautala i le gagana Sipaniolo, ua tu’uto’atasi i le puipuia o tagata manu’a uma i Amerika Samoa, tusa lava po’o le a lo latou tulaga o le malaga. Vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911 – matou te puipuia ou aia tatau ma lou fa’alilolilo.

42. E fa’apefea pe afai na tupu le fa’alavelave i se nofoaga ta’avale e fa’aautū?
O fa’alavelave i nofoaga ta’avale e fa’aautū i Amerika Samoa e mafai ona tauia atoa. E ui o nisi taimi e taumafai kamupani inisiua e fa’apea o fa’alavelave i nofoaga ta’avale e masani lava ona “50/50” le nafa (lea e le sa’o), e mafai ona matou fa’amaonia le nafa e ala i le ata mata’ituina, fa’amatalaga a molimau, ma le auiliiliga mae’ae’a o fa’aleagaina. O tulafono o le fa’atusatusaina o le le fa’aeteete a Texas o lo’o fa’aaogaina pea, ma o lo’o ia te matou se fa’amaumauga malosi o le mauaina o i’uga lelei i fa’alavelave i nofoaga ta’avale.

43. E fa’apefea pe afai o a’u o se pasese i le ta’avale sese?
Afai o oe o se pasese mama i se ta’avale na mafua ai se fa’alavelave, e mafai ona e tuliloaina se tagi faasaga i le inisiua a le aveta’avale, e tusa lava pe o le aveta’avale o se uo po’o se tagata o le aiga (po’o se aveta’avale Uber/Lyft). O oe o se tagata manu’a mama, ma o le inisiua nofoaga a le aveta’avale e ufiufi pasese. O nei ituaiga o mataupu e masani ona fa’amautu vave ona e manino lava lou leai o se sese. Matou te taulimaina nei tulaga ma’ale’ale ma le fa’apolofesa.

44. E fa’apefea pe afai na maliu le isi aveta’avale i le fa’alavelave?
O le maliu o le aveta’avale sese e le fa’aumatia lona nafa. E mafai lava ona e tuliloaina se tagi faasaga i le fanua o le aveta’avale ua maliu ma lana inisiua. E fa’aaoga pea le inisiua. O tulafono o le maliu sese e puipuia itu uma, ma o nei mataupu e taulimaina ma le ma’ale’ale a’o puipuia ma le maumaua’i ou aia tatau.

Lau Vala’au mo se Gaioiga: Fa’amautu Lou Lumana’i i Amerika Samoa

O le mulimuli mai o se fa’alavelave tau ta’avale afi i Amerika Samoa o se taimi o le tele o le tiga, fenumia’iga, ma fa’afitauli tau tupe. E te ono feagai ma pili fa’afoma’i, tupe leiloa, ma pepa lofituina mai kamupani inisiua ma’umau. Ae e te le tau feagai na’o oe ma lenei taua. O le Attorney911 ua iinei e avea ma ou loia le fa’amavae, o lau ‘au fa’afuase’i fa’aletulafono, ma lou avanoa le talafeagai e faasaga ia i latou e fa’afitia oe i le fa’amasinoga tonu.

Ua matou molimauina muamua le a’afiaga leaga e mafai e fa’alavelave ona maua i tagata ta’ito’atasi ma aiga i Amerika Samoa. O le mafua’aga lea o le matou ‘au, o lo’o ta’ita’ia e Ralph Manginello ma fa’amalosia e le malamalama fa’apitoa i totonu o Lupe Peña e uiga i togafiti puipuia o inisiua, o lo’o tu’uina atu le tautinoga e tauivi ma le lē fiu e maua ai le taui sili e tatau ai. Mai le tele o miliona tala o taui mo manu’aga leaga e pei o fa’aleagaina fai’ai ma tipi ese vaega o le tino i le fa’atautaia o tulafono fa’alagolago i ta’avale tetele i le fa’amasinoga feterale, o a matou i’uga e tautala mo i latou lava.

Aua le fa’atagaina fa’amaoniga taua e mou atu, ma aua le fa’atagaina kamupani inisiua e fa’aaogaina lou vaivai. O aso uma e te fa’atali ai e mafai ona fa’alavelaveina lau mataupu. O ou aia tatau, lou toe faia, ma lou lumana’i i Amerika Samoa e taua tele e fa’atuai ai.

Faia le laasaga muamua taua agai i le fa’amasinoga tonu i le asō.

Vala’au le Attorney911 nei mo lau FUA, fautuaga e leai se noataga. Matou te galulue i luga o se totogifuapau, o lona uiga e te le totogia se mea se’i vagana ua matou manumalo i lau mataupu. E te le leiloa se mea ma e te maua mea uma.

Vala’au le 1-888-ATTY-911 – Lau Laina Fa’afuase’i Fa’aletulafono.
Se Habla Español.

• 1-888-288-9911
• Asiasi i la matou ‘upega tafa’ilagi mo nisi fa’amatalaga: https://attorney911.com
• Su’esu’e a matou punaoa vitiō atoatoa: https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm
• Fa’alogo i “Attorney 911 The Podcast” i Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/bj/podcast/attorney-911/id1773141988

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC | Ofisa Autu: Houston, Texas

O mataupu uma e eseese, ma o fa’ai’uga ua tuana’i e le fa’amaonia ai fa’ai’uga i le lumana’i. E mafai lava ona e nafa mo tau o fa’amasinoga ma tupe fa’aalu o le mataupu tusa lava po’o le a le i’uga. E avanoa fautuaga fua mo talanoaga e uiga i le fausaga o totogifuapau.

ENGLISH

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, the path forward can often feel overwhelming, confusing, and filled with uncertainty. We understand the physical pain, the emotional distress, and the financial worries that can follow an unexpected crash. That’s why Attorney911 is here to guide you every step of the way, offering not just legal expertise but also the steadfast support you need during a challenging time. With over 25 years of experience, Ralph Manginello leads our dedicated team, fighting for the residents of American Samoa and across Texas to ensure their rights are protected and they receive the compensation they deserve.

At Attorney911, we believe that when you’re facing a legal emergency, you need immediate, decisive action. Whether you’ve been injured in a car crash on one of American Samoa’s local roads or involved in a more complex incident with a commercial vehicle, our emergency hotline at 1-888-ATTY-911 is available 24/7. We’re ready to provide the urgent legal response that can make all the difference in preserving critical evidence and building a strong case from day one. Our commitment is to treat you like family, ensuring you never feel like just another case file.

Our Promise to American Samoa Residents: We Understand Your Crisis

When an accident strikes in American Samoa, your world can be turned upside down in an instant. From the immediate aftermath of the collision to the long process of medical treatment and recovery, countless questions can arise: “Who will pay my medical bills?” “How will I support my family if I can’t work?” “Can I trust the insurance company?” These are legitimate concerns, and we are here to provide clear, compassionate answers.

We’ve dedicated our careers to helping accident victims navigate these turbulent waters. Our founder, Ralph Manginello, a seasoned trial attorney with federal court admission in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, brings a quarter-century of litigation experience to the table. We’ve handled cases ranging from minor injuries to catastrophic accidents involving brain injuries and amputations, securing multi-million dollar settlements for our clients.

Our unique advantage comes from our deep understanding of how insurance companies operate. Associate Attorney Lupe Peña spent years on the other side, working for a national defense firm. He knows their tactics, their software, and their strategies for minimizing payouts because he used them himself. Now, that insider knowledge is your unfair advantage against the very companies trying to deny you justice.

Don’t let the insurance company dictate your future. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident in American Samoa, reach out to us immediately. Call 1-888-ATTY-911, and let us put our experience, our insights, and our unwavering commitment to justice to work for you. We offer free consultations, and we work on a contingency fee basis – meaning you don’t pay us a dime unless we win your case.

Attorney911: Your Trusted Legal Emergency Response in American Samoa

At Attorney911, a trade name of The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive and assertive legal representation for motor vehicle accident victims across American Samoa and the greater Texas area. With roots deeply embedded in Texas, our firm is built on a foundation of proven results, insider knowledge, and unwavering client advocacy. Ralph Manginello, our managing partner, has been practicing law for over 25 years, establishing a reputation for tenacity and dedication that few can match.

Ralph’s journey began after earning his J.D. from South Texas College of Law Houston. Admitted to the Texas State Bar in 1998, his career has been marked by a relentless pursuit of justice for his clients. His experience extends beyond state courts, with admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, allowing us to handle complex federal cases that many firms cannot. This federal court admission, coupled with our firm’s involvement in significant national litigation such as the BP explosion litigation, demonstrates our capability to take on powerful corporations and secure multi-million dollar results.

Meet Our Dedicated Team

Our strength at Attorney911 comes from the diverse and specialized talents of our team:

• Ralph Manginello, Managing Partner: With more than 25 years in litigation, Ralph is not just a lawyer; he is a formidable advocate. Raised in the Memorial area of Houston, Ralph’s deep understanding of the local landscape, from its highways to its courtrooms, is invaluable. His membership in the HCCLA (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) also means we can effectively navigate cases that involve both civil and criminal charges, such as drunk driving accidents in American Samoa. Clients like Jamin Marroquin praise Ralph’s leadership, stating, “Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise… tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.” This personal involvement ensures that every case benefits from his strategic insight and dedication.

• Lupe Peña, Associate Attorney: Lupe is our secret weapon, bringing an unparalleled advantage to our clients. Prior to joining Attorney911, Lupe spent several years at a national defense firm, where he learned firsthand the inner workings of large insurance companies. As we mentioned, Lupe knows their playbook inside and out:

  • He understands their claim valuation methods, including the notorious Colossus software.
  • He is familiar with their settlement authority structures and delay tactics.
  • He knows exactly how they select IME (Independent Medical Examination) doctors to minimize claims.
  • He has reviewed countless surveillance videos and social media posts as a defense attorney. His insight is critical when insurance companies attempt to misuse such evidence. As Lupe himself states, “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as defense attorney. Here’s the truth: 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.”

  Lupe’s insider knowledge means we can anticipate their moves, counter their strategies, and fight for maximum compensation for victims in American Samoa. Lupe is also a third-generation Texan and fluent in Spanish, ensuring that language is never a barrier to justice for our Spanish-speaking clients. As client Chelsea Martinez notes, “Special thank you to my attorney, Mr. Pena, for your kindness and patience with my repeated questions.”

Our Proven Track Record: Multi-Million Dollar Results Speak for Themselves

Our commitment to our clients in American Samoa is reflected in our consistent record of success. We don’t just talk about fighting for justice; we achieve it.

• Logging Brain Injury: We secured a “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss when log dropped on him at logging company.” This highlights our ability to handle catastrophic injury cases against large entities. Their life was drastically changed in an instant, and we fought tirelessly to ensure they had the resources for a lifetime of care.
• Car Accident Amputation: In a particularly challenging case, “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 result demonstrates our fierce advocacy when a client’s life is irrevocably altered by a severe injury and subsequent complications, ensuring they receive funds for future prosthetics, therapy, and lost earning capacity.
• 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.” These cases are profoundly tragic, and we bring all our federal court experience and resources to hold negligent trucking companies accountable.
• 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.” This outcome showcases our diligent investigation skills in complex maritime environments, ensuring employers uphold their duty of care.
• BP Explosion Litigation: Our firm was “one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation.” This experience underscores our capacity to tackle monumental cases against multi-billion dollar corporations, handling the intricate legal and scientific challenges involved.

We also possess a strong record in criminal defense, which often intersects with motor vehicle accidents involving serious charges like DWI. Our ability to secure DWI dismissals where breathalyzer machines were improperly maintained, missing nurse notes were exposed, or video evidence contradicted the state’s claims, reflects a meticulous approach to evidence and a deep understanding of legal procedures that benefits all our clients. We are currently actively pursuing a $10,000,000 lawsuit against the University of Houston and Pi Kappa Phi Fraternity, demonstrating our readiness to confront major institutions when justice demands it.

What Our Clients Say: Unwavering Support and Exceptional Results

Our numerous 5-star Google reviews (over 250 in total) highlight the consistent quality of service and positive results we deliver. Chad Harris eloquently sums up our approach: “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” This sentiment is echoed by countless others:

• Ambur Hamilton noted, “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.”
• Dame Haskett praised our communication, stating, “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.”
• Donald Wilcox shared his experience after another firm wouldn’t take his case, “Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.”
• Glenda Walker expressed, “They make you feel like family and even though the process may take some time, they make it feel like a breeze. They fought for me to get every dime I deserved.”
• Kiimarii Yup shared a remarkable recovery: “I lost everything… my car was at a total loss and because of Attorney Manginello and my case worker Leonor… 1 year later I have gained so much in return plus a brand new truck.”
• Our dedicated staff, including Leonor, Melanie, Amanda, and Zulema, often receive high praise directly from clients, reinforcing our commitment to personalized care. As Stephanie Hernandez describes, “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.”

Even celebrities like Trae Tha Truth recognize our firm’s commitment to justice in Houston, with Jacqueline Johnson stating, “One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know he do good work.”

Our Educational Resources: Empowering You with Knowledge

We believe informed clients are empowered clients. That’s why we offer extensive educational resources, including:

• Our YouTube Channel: With over 200 videos, our channel (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) covers essential topics like “What Is Fair Compensation for Pain and Suffering?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LG07vbB4cdU) and “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneVVs).
• Attorney 911 The Podcast: Hosted by Ralph Manginello, our podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/bj/podcast/attorney-911/id1773141988) delivers “Real-world cases, valuable insights, and practical tips you can use today. It’s time to get smart, like a lawyer.”

We provide these resources because we are committed to helping anyone who has been injured in American Samoa, whether they become our client or not. When you are ready to discuss your specific situation, we are here. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

Motor Vehicle Accident Types: Navigating the Complexities in American Samoa

The roads of American Samoa, whether bustling thoroughfares or quiet local streets, can become the scene of life-altering motor vehicle accidents in an instant. From the smallest fender-bender to the most catastrophic collision, each incident carries unique legal complexities, demands specific investigative approaches, and requires a deep understanding of Texas law. At Attorney911, we handle a comprehensive range of motor vehicle accident cases throughout American Samoa and across Texas. Our seasoned team, led by Ralph Manginello, approaches every case with the meticulous attention to detail and aggressive advocacy necessary to secure justice.

Our firm’s unique advantage, thanks to Lupe Peña’s background at a national defense firm, means we understand precisely how insurance companies will attempt to devalue your claim, regardless of the accident type. We’ve recovered millions for accident victims and are prepared to fight for you.

Car Accidents in American Samoa

A Constant Hazard on American Samoa Roads: Understanding Car Accident Risks

Car accidents are an unfortunate reality on Texas roads, and American Samoa is no exception. These incidents can range from minor fender-benders to devastating multi-vehicle collisions, often leaving victims with significant physical, emotional, and financial burdens. In 2024 alone, Texas saw 251,977 people injured in motor vehicle crashes, with one crash occurring every 57 seconds and one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds. This translates to over 4,150 fatalities statewide. These statistics underscore the constant danger faced by drivers and passengers in American Samoa.

For over 25 years, Ralph Manginello has been a tireless advocate for those injured in car accidents, bringing his extensive litigation experience, including federal court admission in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, to every case. We understand the specific challenges faced by car accident victims in American Samoa, from dealing with local law enforcement to navigating the complexities of their medical recovery.

Common Causes of Car Accidents in American Samoa:

Car accidents, whether on major thoroughfares or local roads in American Samoa, are frequently caused by negligent driver behavior. We often see cases stemming from:

• Distracted Driving: Despite increasing awareness, distracted driving remains a leading cause of accidents, contributing to 380 deaths in Texas in 2024. This includes texting, talking on the phone, eating, or engaging with in-car technology.
• Speeding: Exceeding the speed limit or driving too fast for conditions reduces reaction time and increases impact force, leading to more severe injuries in accidents in American Samoa.
• Failure to Yield: Violating right-of-way rules at intersections or during lane changes can lead to dangerous T-bone or head-on collisions.
• Running Red Lights/Stop Signs: Disregarding traffic signals is a reckless act that frequently results in serious crashes.
• Following Too Closely: Tailgating reduces the ability to stop safely, often causing rear-end collisions.
• DUI/DWI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs judgment and reaction time, leading to devastating accidents.

Common Injuries from Car Accidents:

Car accidents in American Samoa can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which may not be immediately apparent:

• Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Common in rear-end collisions, these affect the neck, back, and other muscles.
• Herniated Discs: Damage to the spinal discs can cause severe back and neck pain, often requiring extensive medical treatment.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Impact forces can lead to fractures in limbs, ribs, or the skull, necessitating casting, surgery, or prolonged recovery.
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even a seemingly minor jolt can cause concussions or more severe TBIs, leading to long-term cognitive and emotional challenges.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: These catastrophic injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis, changing a victim’s life forever.
• Internal Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma can cause internal bleeding or organ damage, requiring emergency surgery.

We have seen firsthand how devastating these injuries can be. 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 multi-million dollar result underscores our commitment to fighting for maximum compensation for our clients, ensuring they have the financial resources for lifelong care.

Proving Liability and Battling Insurance in American Samoa:

Texas is an “at-fault” state, meaning the negligent driver is responsible for damages. However, Texas also employs a “modified comparative negligence” rule (the 51% bar rule). This means if you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Insurance companies aggressively use this rule to minimize their payouts. This is where Attorney911’s unique advantage comes into play. Lupe Peña’s years as an insurance defense attorney mean we understand exactly how they try to shift blame and reduce your claim. We know their tactics because he used them. Now, we use that knowledge to protect you in American Samoa.

Whether it was a minor rear-end collision or a major impact, we meticulously gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, accident reconstruction, and medical records. We take on the insurance companies, handling all communication so you can focus on recovery. As client MONGO SLADE stated, “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” And for those concerned about delays in treatment, Chavodrian Miles praised our efficiency: “Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.”

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in American Samoa, don’t face the insurance adjusters alone. Your future is too important. Contact Attorney911 for a free consultation. Call us 24/7 at 1-888-ATTY-911. We don’t get paid unless we win your case.

18-Wheeler & Trucking Accidents in American Samoa

The Colossal Threat on American Samoa’s Major Roadways

Few accidents are as devastating as collisions involving 18-wheelers or other large commercial trucks. The sheer size and weight disparity—an 80,000-pound truck versus a 4,000-pound passenger car—means that occupants of smaller vehicles often sustain catastrophic injuries or even lose their lives. With major roadways connecting American Samoa to countless destinations, residents are constantly exposed to the risks posed by commercial trucking traffic. In 2024, Texas alone saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, leading to 608 trucking fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Tragically, Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide, making it a critical area of concern.

At Attorney911, we have extensive experience representing victims of these horrific accidents in American Samoa and across the state. Our firm, led by Ralph Manginello, has a proven track record, including multi-million dollar recoveries in trucking wrongful death cases. We understand the complex federal regulations governing the trucking industry and possess the federal court admission in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, necessary to litigate these often high-stakes cases.

Navigating the Labyrinth of Trucking Regulations:

Trucking accidents are inherently more complex than car accidents due to the intricate web of federal and state regulations that apply. The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) sets strict rules for truck drivers and trucking companies, including:

• Hours of Service (HOS): Limits on how long a driver can operate a vehicle to prevent fatigue. Drivers can only drive a maximum of 11 hours after 10 consecutive hours off-duty and cannot drive beyond the 14th hour after coming on duty. A 30-minute break is required after 8 cumulative hours of driving.
• Electronic Logging Devices (ELDs): Mandatory for recording HOS, these devices track crucial data like engine hours, vehicle movement, and miles driven. This data is critical evidence, but it can be overwritten or deleted within 30-180 days.
• Driver Qualifications: Strict requirements for Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs), medical certifications, background checks, and comprehensive drug and alcohol testing. The Commercial Driver BAC limit is 0.04%, half that of regular drivers.
• Vehicle Maintenance: Rules for pre-trip inspections, maintenance programs, and specific standards for brakes and tires.

Violations of FMCSA regulations can establish “negligence per se,” significantly strengthening a victim’s case. However, securing this evidence requires immediate action.

Multiple Liable Parties & Higher Stakes:

Unlike typical car accidents, trucking collisions often involve multiple liable parties, each with their own insurance policies, leading to significantly higher potential compensation. These can include:

• The Truck Driver: For negligent operation (e.g., speeding, distracted driving, fatigue).
• The Trucking Company: For negligent hiring, training, supervision, or maintenance.
• The Cargo Loader: If improper loading caused an unstable load or shifted weight.
• The Truck Manufacturer: For defective parts or mechanical failures.
• Maintenance Companies: If repairs were subpar.

Each additional liable party typically means additional insurance coverage, often with limits of $1,000,000 or more, compared to the minimum $30,000 for a personal vehicle. This is why our experience, including our firm’s involvement in the BP explosion litigation, which demonstrates our capacity to take on major corporations, is crucial for victims in American Samoa.

The Power of a “Nuclear Verdict”:

Insurance companies for trucking firms are acutely aware of the risk of “nuclear verdicts” – jury awards exceeding $10 million. Texas has seen the highest number of these verdicts nationally, with numerous examples in trucking cases, such as:

• A $37.5 million verdict against Oncor Electric for a distracted truck driver in 2024.
• A $44.1 million verdict in the New Prime I-35 pileup case involving 6 deaths in 2024.
• A $35 million settlement against Ben E. Keith in Fort Worth, marking the largest in the city’s history in 2024.
• An astounding $105 million verdict in Lopez v. All Points 360 (Amazon) in 2024.

This threat drives them to settle serious injury cases for higher values, but only if they know they are facing a firm like Attorney911 that is ready and able to go to trial. “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,” demonstrating our leverage against these powerful entities.

If you or a loved one has suffered in an 18-wheeler accident in American Samoa, time is of the essence. Critical evidence, like ELD data, disappears quickly. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. Let us put our multi-million dollar results and federal court experience to work for you.

Drunk Driving Accidents in American Samoa

Holding Impaired Drivers and Responsible Establishments Accountable

Drunk driving is a preventable crime with devastating consequences, tragically impacting families across American Samoa and the entire state of Texas. There’s no excuse for getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. The numbers are staggering: in 2024, Texas reported 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths, comprising a horrific 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Annually, more than 24,000 DWI-related crashes occur in Texas. These aren’t just statistics; they represent real lives irrevocably altered by someone’s reckless decision to drive while intoxicated.

At Attorney911, we firmly believe that drunk drivers must be held fully accountable for their actions. Under Texas Penal Code § 49.04, a driver is legally intoxicated with a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is even lower, at 0.04%. For over 25 years, Ralph Manginello and our team have vigorously pursued justice for victims of drunk driving accidents, ensuring that the maximum compensation is obtained not just from the drunk driver, but potentially from any establishment that illegally over-served them.

Leveraging Texas Dram Shop Law: A Critical Avenue for Justice

One of the most powerful tools in fighting for victims of drunk driving is Texas’s Dram Shop Act (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02). This law allows victims to hold bars, restaurants, or other establishments (referred to as “providers”) liable if they negligently served an “obviously intoxicated” person who then caused an accident. To prove a dram shop claim, we must demonstrate two key elements:

1. “Obviously Intoxicated”: The establishment served a patron who was clearly (or “obviously”) intoxicated at the time of service. Signs of obvious intoxication can include slurred speech, bloodshot or glassy eyes, an unsteady gait or stumbling, aggressive or erratic behavior, and impaired coordination.
2. “Proximate Cause”: That over-service was a direct and foreseeable cause (the “proximate cause”) of the accident and the resulting damages.

Potentially liable parties under dram shop law can range from bars and nightclubs to restaurants, liquor stores, and even event organizers that serve alcohol. This means a single drunk driving accident in American Samoa could have multiple defendants, each with their own insurance policies, significantly increasing the potential for recovery.

The Role of Punitive Damages:

Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages (also known as exemplary damages) in Texas. These damages are designed not to compensate the victim for their loss, but to punish the defendant for their egregious, reckless, or malicious conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future. Because drunk driving demonstrates a conscious indifference to the safety of others, it frequently meets the criteria for punitive damages. This further underscores why these cases can be of higher value, as they incentivize responsible establishments and drivers to act with greater care.

Our Expertise: Criminal and Civil Intersection:

Ralph Manginello’s membership in the HCCLA (Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association) is a testament to our firm’s deep understanding of both civil and criminal legal systems. This is particularly valuable in drunk driving cases, where the outcome of the criminal trial can significantly influence the civil claim. In fact, our firm has a track record of successfully challenging DWI charges, exposing issues such as:

• Improper breathalyzer maintenance: “Our client was charged with drunk driving based on a breath test. Our investigation revealed that a police department employee was not properly maintaining the breathalyzer machines. The charges were dismissed.”
• Missing vital evidence: “Our client drove home at 2:30 a.m., hit a curb and rolled his car, injuring a passenger. 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.”
• Challenging video evidence: “Our client was charged with DUI/DWI, 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.”

This deep insight into criminal defense bolsters our ability to uncover every piece of evidence and construct an unassailable case for drunk driving accident victims in American Samoa.

If you or a loved one has been a victim of a drunk driving accident in American Samoa, you need an attorney who will leave no stone unturned in the pursuit of justice. Don’t let an impaired driver’s negligence destroy your future. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, confidential consultation. We will fight to hold every responsible party accountable.

Motorcycle Accidents in American Samoa

Fighting the Bias for Injured Riders on American Samoa’s Roads

Motorcyclists on the roads of American Samoa face unique risks and often encounter unfair bias when involved in an accident. Despite exercising extreme caution, riders are frequently blamed for collisions, even when a negligent driver is at fault. The reality is stark: in 2024, Texas reported 585 motorcyclist fatalities, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. While Texas law requires helmets for riders under 21, those over 21 may be exempt if they’ve completed a safety course or have at least $10,000 in medical insurance. Regardless of helmet law, a driver’s negligence remains a critical factor in most accidents.

American Samoa, like other parts of Texas, experiences a disproportionate number of motorcycle accidents during warmer months, from March to October, with peak times on Friday through Sunday, particularly between 3 PM and 9 PM. We understand these patterns in American Samoa and know how to investigate them thoroughly.

The Insurance Company’s Blame Game: How We Fight Back

Insurance companies almost always try to pin significant blame on the motorcyclist. This is especially problematic in Texas due to the “51% comparative negligence” rule. If you’re found 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. If you’re 50% or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault. This seemingly small percentage can cost you thousands. For example, if you’re deemed 10% at fault in a $100,000 case, you lose $10,000.

Common causes where drivers, not riders, are usually at fault include:

• Failure to Yield Right-of-Way: The most common cause, especially at intersections. Drivers often claim they “didn’t see” the motorcycle.
• Driver Inattention/Distraction: Drivers preoccupied with phones or other tasks miss seeing motorcycles.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers change lanes without checking blind spots for smaller vehicles.
• Left-Turn Accidents: Vehicles turning left in front of an oncoming motorcycle lead to severe T-bone or head-on collisions.

Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years on the defense side making exactly these comparative fault arguments. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to anticipate and dismantle their tactics, ensuring that injured motorcyclists in American Samoa receive justice. We know how to prove liability lies with the negligent driver.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in American Samoa, don’t let insurance companies unfairly blame you. Contact Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We will fight tirelessly to protect your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Pedestrian Accidents in American Samoa

Protecting Vulnerable Walkers on American Samoa’s Streets

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable individuals on our roads in American Samoa. Without the protection of a vehicle, a collision with a car or truck can result in catastrophic injuries or even death. The statistics in Texas are alarming: in 2024, there were 6,095 pedestrian crashes, resulting in 768 fatalities. While pedestrians account for only 1% of all crashes, they tragically make up 19% of all roadway deaths. This stark disparity underscores the extreme danger pedestrians face, particularly in areas with heavy vehicle traffic.

As American Samoa continues to develop, a focus on pedestrian safety is paramount. Unfortunately, driver negligence often puts walkers at risk. We work tirelessly for injured pedestrians in American Samoa, seeking justice from negligent drivers who disregard traffic laws and the safety of others.

The Legal Right-of-Way: A Misunderstood Rule

One of the most critical legal points that many drivers and insurance companies ignore is that pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections under Texas law, even at unmarked crosswalks. As we often explain, “Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk,” regardless of whether it’s painted or not. Despite this clear legal precedent, drivers frequently fail to yield, leading to tragic consequences.

Common injuries suffered by pedestrians include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Caused by impacts to the head or violently shaking the brain.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Leading to partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Pelvis and Legs: Direct impact from vehicles often crushes lower extremities.
• Internal Organ Damage: Severe blunt force trauma can rupture organs and cause internal bleeding.
• Fatalities: Sadly, many pedestrian accidents are fatal due to the lack of protection.

Insurance companies will often try to argue comparative fault, attempting to claim the pedestrian was distracted or jaywalking. However, our experienced team, with Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge of defense tactics, knows how to counter these assertions and firmly establish driver liability. We collect and analyze all available evidence, including surveillance footage from nearby businesses, witness statements, and accident reconstruction, to build an irrefutable case.

If you or a loved one has been hit by a car while walking in American Samoa, you need immediate legal representation. Don’t let insurance adjusters shift the blame. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Our firm is dedicated to protecting the rights of pedestrians and securing the maximum compensation for their injuries.

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft) in American Samoa

Navigating the Complex Insurance Maze in American Samoa’s Gig Economy

Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft have become an integral part of transportation in American Samoa, offering convenience to millions. However, when an accident occurs involving a rideshare vehicle, the legal and insurance complexities can be daunting. Determining liability and identifying the correct insurance policy to cover damages is far more nuanced than a standard car accident, often creating confusion and delays for injured victims in American Samoa. With 17.4 million Uber trips daily worldwide and billions of trips completed annually, the potential for accidents is significant.

At Attorney911, we possess the specialized knowledge to navigate these intricate cases. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, with his background in insurance defense, has a deep understanding of the multi-layered insurance policies involved, giving our clients a critical advantage.

The Crucial Rideshare Insurance Phases:

The insurance coverage in a rideshare accident hinges entirely on what the driver was doing at the exact moment of the crash. There are four distinct “phases” that dictate which policy applies:

1. Period 0 – App Off (Offline): The driver is not logged into the rideshare app and is using their vehicle for personal use. In this instance, only the driver’s personal auto insurance policy applies. Texas Minimum coverage is typically 30/60/25 ($30,000 per person in bodily injury, $60,000 per accident in bodily injury, and $25,000 in property damage).
2. Period 1 – App On (Waiting for Request): The driver is logged into the app, actively waiting for a ride request, but has not yet accepted one. During this phase, if the driver’s personal insurance denies coverage, a contingent rideshare policy kicks in, typically offering $50,000 per person/$100,000 per accident in bodily injury liability and $25,000 in property damage.
3. Period 2 – Accepted Request (En Route to Pickup): The driver has accepted a ride request and is proceeding to pick up the passenger. At this point, the rideshare company’s full commercial liability policy typically provides $1,000,000 in coverage.
4. Period 3 – Transporting Passenger: The passenger is in the vehicle, being transported to their destination. Again, the rideshare company’s full commercial liability policy, providing $1,000,000 in coverage, applies.

Who Can Be Injured in Rideshare Accidents?

Accidents involving Uber or Lyft are not limited to just the rideshare driver. Statistics show that:

• 21% of those injured are passengers (the “riders”).
• 21% are the rideshare drivers themselves.
• 58% are “third parties” – meaning other drivers, their passengers, or pedestrians who are hit by a negligent rideshare driver or another vehicle involved in the crash.

This breakdown highlights the broad impact these accidents can have on the community in American Samoa.

If you’ve been injured in a rideshare accident in American Samoa, whether as a passenger, another driver, or a pedestrian, you need an attorney who understands these complex insurance dynamics. Don’t let the rideshare company or their adjusters confuse you or deny your rightful compensation. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free case evaluation. With Lupe Peña’s insider knowledge, we know how to secure the maximum compensation you deserve.

Hit and Run Accidents in American Samoa

Seeking Justice When the Responsible Driver Fled the Scene

A hit and run accident is a deeply frustrating and often terrifying experience. You’re injured, your vehicle is damaged, and the person responsible made the cowardly decision to flee the scene, leaving you to deal with the overwhelming aftermath alone. Nationally, someone is involved in a hit and run every 43 seconds, and American Samoa is not immune to these incidents. Not only is fleeing the scene of an accident morally reprehensible, but it is also a serious crime in Texas, carrying severe penalties.

Under Texas Transportation Code § 550.021, penalties for hit and run vary based on the severity of the outcome:

• Injury: If someone is injured, it can be a third-degree felony, punishable by 2-10 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Death: If the accident results in a death, it becomes a second-degree felony, carrying a penalty of 2-20 years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000.
• Property Damage: Even if only property damage occurs, it can be a Class B Misdemeanor or State Jail Felony, with potential jail time and fines.

Utilizing Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Coverage:

When the at-fault driver flees, it often feels like there’s no path to compensation. However, this is precisely when your own Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage becomes critical. If you carry UM coverage on your auto insurance policy, it acts as a lifeline, stepping in to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering when the negligent driver cannot be identified or located. Learn more about UM/UIM claims in our YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

The Urgency of Evidence Preservation:

In hit and run cases in American Samoa, time is severely of the essence. Key evidence that can help identify the fleeing driver or prove their fault disappears rapidly:

• Surveillance Footage: Most surveillance cameras at gas stations, retail stores, and traffic intersections typically delete footage within 7-30 days. Ring doorbell footage may also be temporary. Once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.
• Witnesses: People who saw the accident may disperse, relocate, or their memories may fade quickly.

At Attorney911, the moment you contact us after a hit and run in American Samoa, we spring into action. We immediately send preservation letters to businesses, dispatch investigators to canvass the area for cameras and witnesses, and work with law enforcement to identify the responsible party. This rapid response is crucial to capturing fleeting evidence and building your case. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, leverages his defense background to understand how insurance companies attempt to minimize responsibility, especially when the other driver is absent.

If you’ve been the victim of a hit and run accident in American Samoa, don’t despair. You have rights, and we can help you pursue justice. Call Attorney911 right away at 1-888-ATTY-911 for an immediate, free consultation. Every day you wait means critical evidence could be lost.

Bicycle Accidents in American Samoa

A Growing Concern for American Samoa Cyclists

As cycling grows in popularity for recreation and commuting in American Samoa, so does the risk of accidents with motor vehicles. Cyclists, like pedestrians, are incredibly vulnerable on the road, with little protection against the force of a car or truck. In Texas, there were 78 bicyclist fatalities in 2024, a 26.42% decrease from the previous year, yet still a tragic number. Riders often face driver inattention, aggressive maneuvers, and an unfair perception of fault, especially concerning the Texas 51% comparative negligence rule where insurance companies often try to assign undue blame to the cyclist.

Understanding Liability and Fighting Bias:

Drivers often claim they “didn’t see” a cyclist or that the cyclist was violating a traffic law. Our role is to counter these biases and establish clear liability. Common causes of bicycle accidents, largely due to driver negligence, include:

• Drivers Making Left Turns: Turning directly into the path of an oncoming cyclist.
• Drivers Making Right Turns: Cutting off a cyclist who is proceeding straight, often referred to as a “right hook.”
• Dooring: A driver or passenger opening a car door directly into a cyclist’s path.
• Drivers Exiting Driveways or Parking Lots: Failing to see cyclists on the sidewalk or bike lane.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers looking at their phones or otherwise not paying attention.

Our team at Attorney911 gathers all available evidence, including surveillance footage from businesses in American Samoa, witness statements, and detailed accident reports, to demonstrate driver negligence. Lupe Peña’s specific experience with insurance defense tactics means we can dismantle arguments of comparative fault often used against cyclists.

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident in American Samoa, don’t let insurance companies blame you for someone else’s negligence. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We’ll make sure your voice is heard and your rights are protected.

Bus Accidents in American Samoa

Complex Liability in American Samoa’s Public and Private Transportation

When a bus is involved in an accident in American Samoa, the consequences can be severe due to the large number of potential passengers and the sheer size of the vehicle. Buses range from public transit and school buses to commercial tour buses and private shuttles. Texas led all states in 2024 with 1,110 bus accidents, including 17 fatal crashes and 549 injury crashes. School bus safety is also a major concern, with over 2,523 school bus crashes reported in 2023, resulting in 11 deaths and 63 serious injuries, injuring thousands of students.

Multiple Parties, Complex Claims:

Bus accidents often involve multiple layers of liability, making them highly complex. Potentially liable parties can include:

• The Bus Driver: For negligence such as distracted driving, fatigue, or impairment.
• The Bus Operator/Company: For inadequate training, negligent hiring, poor vehicle maintenance, or pressuring drivers to violate safety regulations.
• The Bus Manufacturer: For defects in design (e.g., faulty brakes, tires, or structural flaws).
• Other Drivers: If another vehicle caused the bus to crash.
• Governmental Entities: If poor road design, signage, or maintenance contributed to the accident. Claims against government entities have special notice requirements with very short deadlines.

Special Considerations for School Bus Accidents:

School bus accidents are particularly sensitive, involving the safety of children. While these cases often involve claims against governmental entities (e.g., school districts), which introduces the challenges of sovereign immunity, exceptions exist to hold negligent parties accountable. Our team, with Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience, understands how to navigate these complexities.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bus accident in American Samoa, securing prompt and skilled legal representation is crucial. Contact Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss your options. We will thoroughly investigate every aspect of the accident to identify all responsible parties and pursue the full compensation you deserve.

Construction Zone Accidents in American Samoa

Navigating Danger in American Samoa’s Work Zones

Construction zones are a necessary part of progress in American Samoa, but they are also exceptionally dangerous areas where accident risks are significantly heightened. Reduced speed limits, confusing signage, narrowed lanes, and the presence of heavy equipment create a hazardous environment for both drivers and construction workers. In 2024, nearly 28,000 crashes occurred in Texas work zones, leading to 215 deaths—a shocking 12% increase over the previous year. Nationally, work zone fatalities have increased by 50% from 2013-2023, and surveys indicate a high percentage of contractors report crashes and worker injuries in these zones.

Who is Responsible When Accidents Happen?

Liability in construction zone accidents can be complex, often involving multiple parties:

• Negligent Drivers: Drivers failing to slow down, disregarding signs, driving distractedly, or following too closely are a primary cause of work zone accidents. The tragic story of college student Katrina Bond, who was killed on I-35 near Fort Worth when a distracted truck driver rear-ended her in a work zone, exemplifies this danger.
• Construction Companies: For failing to adequately mark or light the zone, improper traffic control, or leaving hazards in the roadway.
• Government Entities: The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) or local municipalities may be liable for negligent design, maintenance, or supervision of the work zone.
• Equipment Operators: For negligent operation of heavy machinery.

In American Samoa, we understand that construction is ongoing, and drivers must be vigilant, but construction companies and other drivers also bear a responsibility for safety. Our firm brings experience from involvement in the BP explosion litigation, which demonstrates our capability to handle cases involving industrial and complex corporate defendants.

If you’ve been injured in a construction zone accident in American Samoa, you need an attorney who can sort through the layers of liability and stand up to large construction firms or governmental bodies. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We will meticulously investigate the scene and hold all negligent parties accountable.

Delivery Vehicle Accidents in American Samoa

The Hidden Risks of American Samoa’s Exploding Delivery Services

The rise of on-demand delivery services, from Amazon DSP (Delivery Service Partner) vans to DoorDash and Grubhub drivers, has transformed commerce in American Samoa. While convenient, this surge in delivery vehicles has also led to a concerning increase in accidents. Delivery companies often prioritize speed and volume, sometimes at the expense of safety, and their drivers may be pressured to work long hours or rely heavily on devices for navigation, increasing the risk of distracted driving. Cases against these companies are gaining traction nationally, with multi-million dollar verdicts and settlements for victims.

Key Verdicts and Liability Trends:

Recent court cases highlight the significant liability delivery companies and their contractors face:

• In 2024, Amazon was found 85% responsible for a Georgia child struck by a delivery van, resulting in a $16.2 million verdict.
• Another 2024 case, Lopez v. All Points 360 (an Amazon DSP), resulted in a $105 million verdict, partly due to an unlicensed, untrained driver.
• A wrongful death lawsuit against Grubhub in Arizona (Nov 2023) stemmed from a distracted driver who missed a red light, demonstrating how business models can contribute to negligence. Similar cases against Instacart have also resulted in multi-million dollar lawsuits.

Amazon DSPs, for instance, have a higher safety violation rate than average motor carriers, with 1,879 crashes involving Amazon-related carriers reported in a 24-month period ending August 2025. These companies are often contractually required to “defend and indemnify” Amazon, which complicates the legal landscape but often means deeper pockets for compensation.

Why These Cases Are High Value:

Delivery vehicle accidents often result in higher settlements and verdicts because:

• Many delivery vehicles are larger than standard passenger cars, leading to more severe injuries.
• Drivers are often operating under tight schedules, increasing the likelihood of negligent behavior.
• The corporate nature of these defendants means higher insurance limits and a greater incentive to avoid negative publicity.

If you’ve been injured in an accident involving a delivery vehicle in American Samoa, you need a law firm with experience in navigating these corporate claims. Attorney911, with our multi-million dollar results and Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience, including federal court involvement, is equipped to fight these powerful entities. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Automated Driving System (ADS) & Tesla Autopilot Accidents in American Samoa

Holding Cutting-Edge Technology Accountable on American Samoa Roads

The advent of highly automated driving systems (ADS), including Tesla’s Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) features, has introduced a new frontier in accident liability. While these technologies promise enhanced safety, real-world incidents have demonstrated serious limitations and even fatal outcomes. From American Samoa to major metropolitan areas, drivers are encountering these evolving systems, and when they fail, the question of who is responsible becomes critically complex. NHTSA data confirms this, showing Tesla Autopilot accounts for 70% of driver-assist crashes reported to the agency.

A Pattern of Fatal Failures:

Several high-profile fatal crashes have highlighted the dangers of over-reliance on these systems:

• May 2016, Williston, FL: Joshua Brown was killed when his Tesla, operating on Autopilot, failed to detect a white 18-wheeler crossing the highway.
• March 2018, Mountain View, CA: Apple engineer Walter Huang died in a Tesla Autopilot crash into a highway barrier. A recent $240M+ jury verdict against Tesla in a similar August 2025 Miami case highlights the growing legal challenges.
• Ongoing lawsuits, such as the one following the death of Genesis Mendoza in December 2024 in California, continue to challenge Tesla’s technology.

Key Liability Arguments Against Manufacturers:

When these advanced systems fail, our legal strategy focuses on several key arguments:

1. Misleading Marketing: Tesla has often marketed FSD/Autopilot as safer than human drivers, fostering a dangerous overconfidence in the technology.
2. Driver Overconfidence: This marketing has led drivers to over-rely on the system, failing to maintain active supervision as required.
3. Known Defects: Tesla has documented failures, including the system’s inability to detect emergency vehicles, specific types of highway barriers, and certain cross-traffic scenarios.
4. Inadequate Fixes: Instead of comprehensive recalls (like the December 2023 recall of 2+ million Tesla vehicles), the company often relies on over-the-air software updates, which may not adequately address fundamental safety flaws.

Our firm, with Ralph Manginello’s federal court admission in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and experience in complex litigation like the BP explosion case, is uniquely positioned to handle product liability claims against major manufacturers like Tesla. We have the resources and expertise to challenge powerful corporations and their cutting-edge but flawed technologies.

If you or a loved one has suffered injuries or wrongful death in an accident involving a Tesla Autopilot or other automated driving system in American Samoa, you need sophisticated legal representation. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We are prepared to take on the world’s largest corporations to secure your just compensation.

Other Motor Vehicle Accidents in American Samoa

Beyond the common accident types, American Samoa residents may encounter a variety of other incidents on the road. Each carries its own set of challenges, from establishing liability to navigating insurance claims. Our firm, led by Ralph Manginello, has over 25 years of experience handling virtually every type of motor vehicle accident imaginable across Texas. We bring the same dedication and strategic insight to every case, regardless of its unique circumstances.

Ambulance & Emergency Vehicle Accidents:
When emergency vehicles respond to a crisis in American Samoa, they often operate under special circumstances, but they are not immune to negligence. Accidents involving ambulances, fire trucks, or police vehicles can be complex due to issues like governmental immunity and special notice requirements. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with an emergency vehicle, our team can help navigate these specialized legal pathways to ensure you receive compensation. We send preservation letters immediately as these cases have strict timelines.

Parking Lot Accidents:
Parking lots in American Samoa are frequent sites for collisions, often attributed to driver distraction, failure to yield, or aggressive maneuvering for parking spots. Insurance companies sometimes try to claim these are “50/50” fault, which is a lie. We meticulously review surveillance footage, witness statements, and damage reports to prove liability, ensuring that negligent drivers are held accountable under Texas’s comparative negligence rules.

Boat & Maritime Accidents:
American Samoa’s coastal areas can also be locations for accidents involving offshore vessels or recreational boats. Whether it’s a collision on the water, an injury while working on a vessel, or a slip and fall onboard, maritime law is a specialized field distinct from land-based accident law. Our firm has a proven track record in this area; “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.” This demonstrates our capability to handle intricate maritime claims and fight for fair compensation.

E-Scooter & E-Bike Accidents:
The increasing popularity of electric scooters and bikes in American Samoa has led to a rise in accidents. Riders of e-scooters and e-bikes, like traditional cyclists, are highly vulnerable to serious injuries when colliding with motor vehicles or encountering poorly maintained infrastructure. In Texas, e-bikes have specific classifications and regulations regarding speed and motor power. If an e-bike exceeds certain standards, it may be classified as a motor vehicle, altering insurance and liability implications. We handle complex product liability claims for defective e-bikes (e.g., battery fires or brake failures) and pursue claims against negligent drivers. A recent October 2024 Portland verdict of $1.6 million for an e-bike rider hit by an SUV shows the potential value of these cases.

Commercial Vehicle Accidents (Non-18-Wheeler):
This category includes a wide array of vehicles, from delivery vans and large utility trucks to box trucks and construction vehicles. While not 18-wheelers, these vehicles are significantly larger and heavier than passenger cars, leading to severe injuries in collisions. Their corporate ownership often means higher insurance limits and a greater need for aggressive legal representation. Our experience with high-stakes litigation against major corporations, including the $10,000,000 lawsuit we are currently pursuing, applies directly to aggressively fighting these powerful entities.

No matter the type of vehicle accident you’ve experienced in American Samoa, the principle remains the same: a negligent party should be held accountable. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. We have the experience, the insider knowledge, and the commitment to fight for your rights.

Immediate Action Protocols After a Motor Vehicle Accident in American Samoa

The moments immediately following a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa can be chaotic and disorienting. However, the actions you take – or fail to take – in the crucial hours and days after a crash can profoundly impact your physical recovery and the strength of your legal claim. At Attorney911, we urge you to prioritize safety and evidence preservation. Our 24/7 hotline at 1-888-ATTY-911 is designed to provide immediate legal guidance, because critical evidence begins to disappear in a matter of hours.

The Critical 48-Hour Survival Guide: Your Immediate Steps

HOUR 1-6 (Immediate Crisis Response):

• Prioritize Safety First: If you can move safely, get your vehicle and yourself to a secure location away from traffic. Your safety takes precedence over everything else.
• Call 911 Immediately: Report the accident to law enforcement. Request medical assistance if anyone is injured, even if injuries seem minor. A police report creates an official record, which is invaluable for your claim.
• Seek Medical Attention: GET TO THE ER IMMEDIATELY if you feel any pain or discomfort. Adrenaline is a powerful hormone that can mask severe injuries. You might be more hurt than you realize. Insurance companies will use any delay in medical treatment against you, arguing your injuries weren’t serious.
• Document Everything Thoroughly:
  • Take photos of ALL vehicle damage from every angle, close-up and wide-shot.
  • Photograph the accident scene, including road conditions, traffic signals, skid marks, and anything that might be relevant.
  • Take clear photos of any visible injuries you or your passengers sustain.
  • Screenshot any messages on your phone relevant to the accident (but DO NOT DELETE ANYTHING).
• Exchange Information: Get the other driver’s name, phone number, address, insurance company, policy number, driver’s license number, and license plate number.
• Identify Witnesses: Ask any bystanders if they saw what happened. Get their names and phone numbers. Their independent testimony can be crucial.
• Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911. Our legal emergency line is your first line of defense. Get immediate legal guidance BEFORE speaking to any insurance company.

HOUR 6-24 (Evidence Preservation is Key):

• Preserve Digital Evidence: Secure all texts, calls, photos, and videos related to the accident. Do NOT delete anything from your phone. Screenshot conversations and email copies to yourself for backup.
• Secure Physical Evidence: Keep any damaged clothing, glasses, or personal items. Hold onto receipts for towing, rental cars, or initial medications. Do NOT repair your vehicle yet – physical damage can be important evidence.
• Request Medical Records: Get copies of all ER/hospital records and discharge paperwork. Schedule a follow-up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours.
• Avoid Insurance Pitfalls: Note any calls from insurance companies. DO NOT give recorded statements yet. DO NOT sign anything. DO NOT accept any settlement offers. Simply state, “I need to speak with my attorney first.”
• Secure Your Social Media: Make ALL your social media profiles private immediately. Do NOT post about the accident, your injuries, or your activities. Even innocent posts can be twisted and used against you by insurance investigators.

HOUR 24-48 (Making Strategic Decisions):

• Legal Consultation: Use your free consultation with Attorney911. Have your documentation ready. We will guide you through your options.
• Let Your Attorney Handle Insurance: If insurance companies contact you, refer them directly to Attorney911. Your response should be, “My attorney will be in touch with you.” Provide only basic information.
• Resist Early Settlement Offers: Early offers from insurance companies are always lowball offers. You cannot know the full extent of your injuries or the long-term costs yet.
• Backup Evidence: Upload all photos and screenshots to cloud storage and email copies to yourself or a trusted family member. Create a written timeline of events while your memory is fresh.

The Evidence Deterioration Timeline: Why Every Hour Counts

Perhaps the most critical reason to contact Attorney911 immediately after an accident in American Samoa is the rapid disappearance of evidence. Evidence doesn’t wait; it deteriorates on a predictable schedule, and once it’s gone, it’s gone forever.

• Day 1-7: Witness memories are at their peak then begin to fade. Physical evidence like skid marks and debris can be cleared.
• Day 7-30: Surveillance footage is routinely deleted. Gas stations typically delete footage in 7-14 days. Retail stores often delete after 30 days. Traffic cameras also have limited retention. This is crucial video evidence of the crash itself or what led up to it.
• Month 1-2: Vehicle repairs destroy physical evidence from the collision. Insurance companies solidify their defense positions.
• Month 2-6: For trucking accidents, ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data and black box information can be overwritten or deleted within 30-180 days.
• Month 6-12: Witness contact becomes harder. Gaps in medical treatment (even legitimate ones) are used against you.
• Month 12-24: You are approaching the 2-year statute of limitations in Texas, which can put you under pressure to settle for less.

How Attorney911 Moves with Surgical Precision

At Attorney911, our rapid response ensures that your case is protected from the very beginning. Within 24 hours of retaining our services, we send preservation letters to ALL relevant parties in American Samoa: the other driver’s insurer, trucking companies, business owners for surveillance footage, and any other potentially liable entities. These letters legally mandate them to preserve critical evidence before it can be destroyed or deleted.

Our investigation team then springs into action within the first week, canvassing the accident scene, obtaining police reports and 911 recordings, documenting the scene, interviewing witnesses, securing medical records, and identifying all insurance policies.

Every day you wait, evidence disappears, and your case weakens. Don’t risk losing vital proof of your claim. Call Attorney911 NOW: 1-888-ATTY-911. Let us take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery.

Texas Motor Vehicle Accident Law Framework for American Samoa Residents

Understanding the legal landscape after a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa is essential to protecting your rights and securing fair compensation. Texas law governs these cases, and its specific rules dictate crucial deadlines, how fault is determined, and the types of damages you can recover. Attorney911, led by Ralph Manginello, possesses over 25 years of experience navigating these precise legal frameworks, ensuring that our clients in American Samoa receive the full benefit of the law.

The Strict Texas Statute of Limitations: Your 2-Year Deadline

Under Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003, most personal injury claims from motor vehicle accidents, as well as wrongful death claims, are subject to a strict two-year statute of limitations.

• Personal Injury: You have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
• Wrongful Death: You have 2 years from the date of death (which may not always be the same as the accident date) to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
• Property Damage: Similarly, you have 2 years to file a claim for damages to your vehicle or other property.

This deadline is absolute. If you fail to file a lawsuit within these two years, you lose your legal right to pursue compensation forever. There are very few exceptions, and insurance companies are acutely aware of this ticking clock, often using it to pressure victims into lowball settlements as the deadline approaches.

However, claims against governmental entities (e.g., a city bus, police car, or TxDOT vehicle accident) have even shorter notice periods, often requiring formal notice within 6 months of the incident. This underscores the critical importance of speaking with an attorney immediately after any accident in American Samoa.

Texas’s Comparative Negligence: The 51% Bar Rule

In Texas, determining fault is not always a simple matter of one person being 100% responsible. Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule, often called the 51% Bar Rule, detailed in Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001. This rule has a significant impact on your ability to recover damages:

• If you are found 50% or less at fault: You can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced proportionally by your percentage of fault. For example, if you are deemed 20% at fault in a case valued at $100,000, you would receive $80,000.
• If you are found 51% or more at fault: You recover absolutely nothing. Your claim is completely barred.

Why this matters: Insurance companies for the at-fault driver will relentlessly try to assign as much blame as possible to you. Even a small percentage can cost you thousands in lost compensation. This is where Attorney911’s unique insight, particularly from Lupe Peña’s years as an insurance defense attorney, offers a distinct advantage. Lupe spent years crafting comparative fault arguments for insurance companies; now, he uses that knowledge to dismantle their blame-shifting tactics and protect our clients in American Samoa.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements (30/60/25)

Every driver in American Samoa and across Texas is legally required to carry minimum auto insurance coverage, typically referred to as 30/60/25:

• $30,000 for bodily injury per person
• $60,000 for total bodily injury per accident
• $25,000 for property damage per accident

Unfortunately, these minimums are often insufficient to cover serious injuries. Furthermore, a significant number of drivers are uninsured. Approximately 15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured, meaning about 1 in 7 drivers. This is why having Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage on your own policy is absolutely critical. UM/UIM coverage can step in to cover your damages when the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. Texas law allows for inter-policy stacking of UM/UIM coverage, which can further benefit victims.

Dram Shop Liability (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02)

Beyond the negligent driver, Texas law also allows victims of drunk driving accidents to pursue claims against establishments that illegally served alcohol. The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, known as the Dram Shop Act, allows victims to hold bars, restaurants, or other providers liable if they served an “obviously intoxicated” person who then caused a crash. Our team thoroughly investigates whether over-service contributed to your suffering in American Samoa.

Federal Court and Complex Litigation

For certain types of motor vehicle accidents, particularly those involving 18-wheelers, large commercial vehicles, or cases with out-of-state defendants, the claim may fall under federal jurisdiction. Ralph Manginello’s admission to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and our firm’s experience in complex, national-level litigation such as the BP explosion case, means we are equipped to handle these high-stakes federal court cases. This experience is a crucial asset for clients in American Samoa facing powerful corporate defendants.

Understanding these legal nuances is paramount to building a successful personal injury claim in American Samoa. Don’t try to decipher complex Texas law while recovering from your injuries. Let Attorney911 put our 25+ years of experience to work for you. Contact us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Proving Liability & Building Your Case for American Samoa Accident Victims

After a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, establishing who was at fault is the cornerstone of any successful personal injury claim. This isn’t always as simple as it seems, as insurance companies will often aggressively dispute liability or try to shift blame. At Attorney911, we employ a meticulous, evidence-driven approach to prove negligence and build a compelling case for our clients. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, leverages his insider knowledge from years of insurance defense work to anticipate and effectively counter the strategies used by the at-fault party’s insurers.

The Four Elements of Negligence: Our Legal Foundation

To hold another driver or entity liable for your injuries in Texas, we must legally prove four key elements:

1. Duty of Care: Every driver on the roads of American Samoa has a legal duty to operate their vehicle safely, obey traffic laws, maintain a proper lookout, and control their speed. Commercial drivers often have an even higher duty of care due governed by specific federal regulations.
2. Breach of Duty: The at-fault driver violated their duty of care through a negligent action or inaction. This could be speeding, running a red light, distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving), driving under the influence, or failing to yield the right-of-way.
3. Causation: The defendant’s breach of duty directly caused your injuries. This involves proving that “but for” their negligent actions, you would not have been injured. Our medical experts help connect the accident to your specific injuries.
4. Damages: You suffered actual harm as a result of the accident. This includes physical injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and emotional distress.

Gathering and Preserving Critical Evidence in American Samoa

Building a strong case requires comprehensive evidence. The challenge is that evidence can disappear rapidly. That’s why our immediate action protocol (calling 1-888-ATTY-911 within hours) is so vital after an accident in American Samoa. We gather:

• Physical Evidence: This includes photographs of all vehicle damage from every angle, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals, and any debris at the accident scene. We document this quickly before it’s cleared.
• Documentary Evidence: Police accident reports, 911 call recordings, traffic camera footage, and crucial surveillance footage from nearby businesses in American Samoa. Remember, surveillance video is often deleted within 7-30 days.
• Electronic Evidence: For trucking accidents, we demand ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data, black box (Event Data Recorder) information, and GPS telemetry, which can be overwritten if not secured quickly. For regular vehicles, we may access vehicle computer data.
• Testimonial Evidence: Statements from eyewitnesses, your detailed account, and the expert testimony of accident reconstruction specialists, medical professionals, and other relevant experts.

Identifying Multiple Liable Parties (and Their Insurance)

Often, more than one party can be held responsible for an accident, particularly in complex cases. Identifying all liable parties is crucial because each one may have associated insurance policies, increasing the potential for full compensation.

• Trucking Accidents: Beyond the driver, we investigate the trucking company (for negligent hiring or maintenance), the cargo loader, the vehicle manufacturer, and maintenance companies.
• Rideshare Accidents: Liability can extend to the rideshare driver, the rideshare company (Uber/Lyft), and other at-fault drivers, depending on the rideshare “phase” at the time of the crash.
• Drunk Driving Accidents: In addition to the impaired driver, bars, restaurants, or other establishments may be liable under Texas’s Dram Shop Act if they over-served an “obviously intoxicated” person.

The more liable parties we can identify, the more avenues we have to pursue full and fair compensation for our clients in American Samoa. Our multi-million dollar results, including in trucking wrongful death cases, underscore our ability to navigate these complex scenarios.

Leveraging Expert Witnesses

In many serious accident cases, expert testimony is indispensable. Attorney911 works with a network of respected experts to strengthen your case:

• Accident Reconstructionists: To analyze the scene, vehicle damage, and other data to determine how the crash occurred and who was at fault.
• Medical Experts: To clearly link your injuries to the accident, explain the extent of your medical condition, and project future treatment needs.
• Life Care Planners: For catastrophic injuries (like TBI or spinal cord injuries), these experts calculate the lifetime costs of care, adaptive equipment, and other necessities.
• Vocational Experts: To assess lost earning capacity and the impact of your injuries on your ability to work.
• Economists: To calculate the present value of future lost income and other economic damages.

By thoroughly assembling every piece of evidence and leveraging expert testimony, we build an unassailable case designed to secure maximum compensation for our clients in American Samoa. Don’t leave your recovery to chance. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation today.

Damages & Compensation: What You Can Recover After an Accident in American Samoa

When you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, understanding the full scope of damages you can recover is essential. Beyond just medical bills, accidents often inflict profound physical, emotional, and financial burdens. At Attorney911, led by Ralph Manginello and bolstered by Lupe Peña’s intricate knowledge of insurance valuation, we meticulously calculate all your losses to ensure you receive maximum compensation. Our multi-million dollar results, including for brain injuries and amputations, demonstrate our commitment to securing the full value of every claim.

Understanding the Types of Damages in Texas

In Texas, personal injury victims can pursue three main categories of damages:

1. Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

These represent tangible financial losses that can be precisely calculated. There are no caps on economic damages in Texas:

• Past Medical Expenses: All costs incurred from the date of the accident until the present, including emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, doctor appointments, physical therapy, medications, and medical equipment.
• Future Medical Expenses: Projections for ongoing treatment, future surgeries, long-term rehabilitation, and lifetime medical care necessitated by your injuries.
• Past Lost Wages: Income you’ve lost from missed work due to your injuries or recovery from the accident.
• Future Lost Earning Capacity: Compensation for your reduced ability to earn income in the future if your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or working at the same capacity.
• Property Damage: The cost to repair or replace your damaged vehicle, as well as any other personal property damaged in the accident.
• Out-of-Pocket Expenses: Any other accident-related costs, such as transportation to medical appointments, necessary home modifications, or expenses for household help if you’re unable to perform daily tasks.

2. Non-Economic Damages (Generally No Cap in Texas)

These are intangible losses that significantly impact your quality of life but are not easily assigned a precise dollar value. There are no caps on non-economic damages in Texas, except in medical malpractice cases (which are not relevant to motor vehicle accidents).

• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain you’ve endured from your injuries, both in the past and what you will experience in the future.
• Mental Anguish: Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, and PTSD resulting from the trauma of the accident and its aftermath.
• Physical Impairment: Compensation for the loss of physical function, disability, and limitations on your daily activities.
• Disfigurement: Damages for permanent scarring, visible injuries, or alterations to your physical appearance.
• Loss of Consortium: Compensation for the negative impact on your marital or family relationships, including the loss of companionship, affection, and support.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: Damages for your inability to partake in hobbies, recreational activities, or social engagements you previously enjoyed due to your injuries.

3. Punitive / Exemplary Damages (Capped in Texas)

These damages are not intended to compensate you for a loss, but rather to punish the defendant for egregious, malicious, or grossly negligent conduct and to deter similar behavior in the future.

• Punitive damages are often sought in cases involving drunk driving, as it typically demonstrates a “conscious indifference” to the safety of others.
• In Texas, punitive damages are capped at the greater of $200,000 OR two times the economic damages plus an amount equal to the non-economic damages (with the non-economic portion capped at $750,000), whichever is less.

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type: What to Expect

While every case is unique, typical settlement ranges are influenced by the severity of injuries and their impact on your life. Our firm has experience with cases that span the entire spectrum:

• Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains): Medical costs can range from $6,000-$16,000, with lost wages from $2,000-$10,000. Settlement ranges typically fall between $15,000-$60,000.
• Broken Bones (Simple): Medical costs from $10,000-$20,000, lost wages from $5,000-$15,000. Settlement ranges from $35,000-$95,000.
• Broken Bones (Surgery Required – ORIF): Medical costs can be $47,000-$98,000, with lost wages from $10,000-$30,000. Settlement ranges from $132,000-$328,000.
• Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment): Medical costs can be $22,000-$46,000, with lost wages from $8,000-$25,000. Settlement ranges from $70,000-$171,000.
• Herniated Disc (Surgery Required): Total past medical can reach $96,000-$205,000, with significant future medical costs. Lost earning capacity can be substantial. Settlement ranges from $346,000-$1,205,000.
• Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe): Initial medical costs alone can be $198,000-$638,000, with future medical care (via a life care plan) ranging from $300,000-$3,000,000+. Lost earning capacity can be in the multi-millions. Settlement ranges from $1,548,000-$9,838,000. Our firm has secured “multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”, demonstrating our capability in these complex cases.
• Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis: Lifetime care costs range from millions (e.g., $2.5M-$5.25M+ for paraplegia) to multi-millions ($6M-$13M+ for high tetraplegia). Settlement ranges from $4,770,000-$25,880,000.
• Amputation: Initial medical costs are high ($170,000-$480,000), but lifetime prosthetics and care can add $500,000-$2,000,000+. Our firm recently handled a case where “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.” Settlement ranges from $1,945,000-$8,630,000.
• Wrongful Death: Economic damages for things like funeral costs and lost financial support, combined with non-economic damages for loss of companionship and mental anguish, can range from $1,910,000-$9,520,000. Our firm has “helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”

The Nuclear Verdict Trend: A Lever for Justice

Insurance companies fear “nuclear verdicts”—jury awards exceeding $10 million. Texas leads the nation in these verdicts, with 207 such awards totaling over $45 billion from 2009-2023. Motor vehicle accidents alone account for 23.2% of all nuclear verdicts. Recent Texas cases like the $105 million verdict against an Amazon DSP, the $44.1 million verdict in the I-35 pileup, and the $37.5 million verdict against Oncor Electric underscore this reality. This trend empowers firms like Attorney911, as insurance companies are often willing to settle for higher amounts to avoid the risk of a massive jury award, especially when facing a firm with a proven trial-ready reputation.

Winning maximum compensation means diligently proving both your current losses and anticipating your future needs. Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your suffering in American Samoa. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, comprehensive evaluation of your claim.

Insurance Counter-Intelligence System: Beating Their Playbook in American Samoa

After a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, it’s not just about recovering from your injuries; it’s about navigating a battlefield against sophisticated insurance companies whose primary goal is to minimize their payouts. They are not on your side, no matter how friendly they seem. This is where Attorney911 provides an unparalleled advantage for our clients in American Samoa. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, spent years working FOR national defense firms, learning every trick, every tactic, and every piece of software they use to devalue claims. Now, he uses that insider knowledge to fight FOR you, not against you.

The Insurance Company Playbook: 6 Tactics They Will Use Against You

Insurance companies deploy a carefully orchestrated strategy from the moment an accident occurs. Here are the common tactics they use, and how Attorney911 counters them:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statements

What they do: Within days—sometimes hours—of your accident in American Samoa, adjusters will contact you. They’ll act empathetic, claiming they just want to “get your side of the story” to “process your claim.” They’ll push for a recorded statement.

What they’re really doing: They are trying to get you to inadvertently say something that can be twisted and used against you later. While you’re on pain medication, confused, or shaken up, they’ll ask leading questions designed to elicit statements that minimize your injuries, shift blame, or suggest you caused the accident. Everything you say is recorded and will be used as ammunition against your claim.

How Attorney911 counters: NEVER give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company without legal counsel. Our advice is to refer all calls to us. Once you hire Attorney911, we become your voice. We handle all communication, ensuring you never inadvertently jeopardize your case. Lupe knows their questions because he asked them for years; now, he ensures you are protected.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (The Lowball)

What they do: In the weeks following your accident, they may offer a small, quick settlement – often $2,000-$10,000. They’ll create false urgency, saying “this offer expires soon” or “this is our final offer.” It sounds tempting when you have mounting medical bills and lost wages.

What they’re really doing: They are hoping you’ll accept before you know the true extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, your claim is closed forever. If an MRI later reveals a herniated disc requiring $100,000 surgery, you’ll be on the hook for those costs.

How Attorney911 counters: We advise clients NEVER to settle before reaching Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) – the point where your injuries have healed as much as medically possible. Until then, the true value of your case cannot be known. Lupe knows these early offers are always drastically undervalued; he calculated those lowball offers for years. We won’t let them take advantage of your vulnerability in American Samoa.

Tactic #3: The “Independent” Medical Exam (IME)

What they do: They’ll require you to see one of their “independent” doctors for an “Independent Medical Examination.”

What they’re really doing: These doctors are anything but independent. They are often paid thousands by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam) for a quick, cursory examination. They are selected because they consistently produce reports that minimize injuries, attribute them to “pre-existing conditions,” or declare you fit for work prematurely. Their findings are almost always skewed in favor of the insurance company.

How Attorney911 counters: We prepare you extensively for what to expect at an IME. We ensure your complete medical records are provided beforehand, leaving no room for the doctor to claim ignorance. Crucially, Lupe knows these specific IME doctors and their biases because he used to hire them for the defense. We know their playbook and how to challenge their biased reports with our own medical experts.

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure

What they do: Insurance companies will deliberately drag out your case. They’ll be slow to respond, “lose” documents, or demand endless “additional information,” hoping you’ll become desperate.

What they’re really doing: They know you have mounting medical bills, lost wages, and financial stress. They believe if they delay long enough, you’ll become financially desperate enough to accept a fraction of what your case is truly worth.

How Attorney911 counters: We don’t play their waiting game. We file lawsuits to impose strict deadlines and push the case forward. We prepare every case as if it’s going to trial, demonstrating to the insurance company that we are serious and will not be pressured into a cheap settlement. Lupe understands delay tactics because he deployed them as a defense attorney; he knows exactly when and how to push back.

Tactic #5: Surveillance & Social Media Monitoring

What they do: They hire private investigators to follow you, film your activities, and relentlessly monitor your social media profiles (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, etc.) in American Samoa.

What they’re really doing: They are looking for any activity they can use to claim your injuries aren’t as severe as you state. A photo of you smiling, bending over, or even walking your dog can be taken out of context and presented as “proof” you’re not really hurt. They will screenshot everything you and your friends post, and even use facial recognition to find you.

How Attorney911 counters: We warn every client to make all social media profiles private, avoid posting about their accident or activities, and instruct friends and family to do the same. Lupe’s insight here is invaluable: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as defense attorney. Here’s the truth: 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.” We teach you how to protect yourself from these invasive tactics.

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments (Shifting Blame)

What they do: Leveraging Texas’s 51% bar rule, insurance companies will try to assign you maximum fault for the accident, even if there’s no evidence.

What they’re really doing: Even if they can’t hit the 51% threshold to completely bar your claim, getting you 10% or 20% at fault dramatically reduces their payout. Ten percent fault on a $100,000 case costs you $10,000. It’s a key strategy to save them money.

How Attorney911 counters: We conduct aggressive liability investigations, using accident reconstructionists, witness statements, and police reports to prove the other driver’s negligence. Lupe knows their comparative fault arguments because he used to make them for the defense. Now, he wields that knowledge to protect our clients in American Samoa, ensuring blame is accurately assigned.

Colossus Software & Claim Valuation: The Inside Scoop

Lupe Peña’s background is particularly powerful when it comes to how insurance companies actually value your claim. He’s intimately familiar with systems like Colossus, a computerized claim valuation software used by major insurers like Allstate, State Farm, and Liberty Mutual. Colossus receives inputs like injury codes, treatment types, and medical costs, then outputs a recommended settlement range.

The Problem: Colossus is often programmed to undervalue serious injuries, using injury codes that rate less severe conditions (“soft tissue strain” vs. “disc herniation”). Adjusters are trained to use the lowest possible codes. Lupe knows how to present your medical records in a way that triggers higher valuations within Colossus, or when to recognize that the software’s valuation is artificially low and requires us to demand significantly more. He also understands “reserve setting”—the money an insurance company sets aside for your claim—and how to make them increase that reserve through aggressive litigation, giving us more leverage.

Don’t let the insurance company’s playbook dictate the outcome of your accident claim in American Samoa. You need an attorney who knows their every move before they make it. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation. Let our insider advantage be your strength.

Medical Knowledge Encyclopedia: Understanding Your Injuries After an Accident in American Samoa

After a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, your physical recovery is paramount. Understanding the nature of your injuries, their potential long-term impact, and the nuances of medical treatment is crucial not only for your health but also for the strength of your personal injury claim. Insurance companies will often try to minimize the severity of your injuries or suggest they’re unrelated to the accident. At Attorney911, we possess deep medical-legal knowledge, working with leading medical experts to precisely document your condition and ensure your prognosis is fully understood and accounted for in your compensation claim.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

TBIs are among the most serious and often misunderstood injuries from motor vehicle accidents. They can range from a mild concussion to severe brain damage.

• Immediate Symptoms: Loss of consciousness (even briefly), confusion, disorientation, vomiting, severe headache, slurred speech, seizures.
• Delayed Symptoms (CRITICAL LEGALLY): Many TBI symptoms don’t manifest until hours or even days after the accident. These can include worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, new seizures, personality changes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, sensitivity to light/noise, and memory problems. Insurance companies often claim delayed symptoms aren’t accident-related, but we use medical experts to explain this common progression.
• Long-Term Complications: Chronic symptoms can include post-concussive syndrome (headaches, dizziness for months/years), increased risk of dementia, depression (affecting 40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, and permanent cognitive impairments affecting memory and concentration.

Our firm secured a “multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss” in a logging accident case, demonstrating our deep understanding of TBI’s devastating impact and a commitment to fighting for lifelong care.

Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)

SCIs are catastrophic injuries with life-altering consequences, often leading to paralysis. The level of injury determines the extent of impairment:

• Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Neck):
  • C1-C4 (High Cervical): Quadriplegia (all four limbs paralyzed), often ventilator-dependent, requiring 24/7 care. Lifetime costs can exceed $6 million-$13 million+.
  • C5-C8 (Low Cervical): Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function, typically wheelchair-dependent.
• Thoracic Spine (T1-T12, Mid-Back): Paraplegia (lower body paralysis), wheelchair-dependent, with varying trunk control.
• Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Lower Back): Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis, bowel/bladder dysfunction common.

Secondary Complications: Beyond paralysis, SCIs lead to severe complications like pressure sores, respiratory problems, chronic pain, and a significantly shortened life expectancy. We work with life care planners to project the multi-million dollar lifetime costs of these injuries.

Amputation

Amputation, whether traumatic at the scene or surgically necessary later due to crush injuries or infections, is a profound and life-changing consequence of serious accidents.

• Types: Can be upper (arm, hand, fingers) or lower (above-knee, below-knee), with lower extremity amputations being more common in motor vehicle accidents.
• Phantom Limb Pain: A significant majority (80%) of amputees experience phantom pain—feeling pain in the limb that is no longer there. This often requires lifetime pain management.
• Attorney911 Case: We successfully handled a case where “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 result underscores our capacity to secure compensation for complex medical needs, including prosthetics (which can cost $5,000-$100,000 and need regular replacement) and extensive rehabilitation.

Burn Injuries

Accidents involving fires (e.g., from fuel tank ruptures) or chemical exposure can cause severe burn injuries.

• Classifications: Ranging from first-degree (superficial) to fourth-degree (extending to muscle/bone).
• Severity: Burns covering a large percentage of the body (e.g., over 20%) often require extensive hospitalization, multiple surgeries, and specialized burn center care.
• Long-Term Impact: Severe burns lead to disfigurement, permanent scarring, loss of function, chronic pain, and immense psychological trauma. Our firm’s involvement in the BP explosion litigation provides insight into handling cases with severe burn components.

Herniated Disc

Herniated discs are common in collisions and can cause debilitating back and neck pain.

• Treatment Timeline: Often begins with conservative management (medication, physical therapy, chiropractic), progresses to interventional treatments (epidural injections), and potentially culminates in spinal surgery (microdiscectomy or fusion), which can cost $50,000-$120,000.
• Long-Term Impact: Even with treatment, many individuals experience chronic pain, permanent restrictions, and an inability to return to physically demanding jobs, leading to significant lost earning capacity.

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

While often dismissed by insurance companies, “soft tissue” injuries can be serious and debilitating.

• Insurance Bias: Insurers undervalue these injuries because they are hard to see on X-rays and symptoms can be subjective. Lupe Peña, our associate attorney, knows their playbook here, as he used to argue precisely these points for defense firms.
• Severity: 15-20% of whiplash victims develop chronic pain. These injuries can prevent individuals from performing work or daily activities, leading to long-term disability. Proper documentation and consistent medical treatment are crucial.

Psychological Injuries

The trauma of a motor vehicle accident extends beyond physical wounds. Psychological injuries are significant and compensable:

• PTSD: 32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms, including anxiety about driving, nightmares, flashbacks, and avoidance behaviors.
• Other Conditions: Depression, anxiety, and mental anguish are common reactions.
• Damages: We pursue compensation for mental anguish, emotional distress, and the impact on your overall enjoyment of life.

Your medical journey after a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa is complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Attorney911 works to ensure every aspect of your injuries—physical and psychological, past and future—is thoroughly documented and presented for maximum compensation. Call us today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation.

Why Choose Attorney911: Your Unfair Advantage in American Samoa

When you’re facing the daunting aftermath of a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, selecting the right legal representation can be the most critical decision you make. You need more than just any attorney; you need a powerful advocate who combines experience, insider knowledge, and unwavering dedication. Attorney911 stands apart through five unique advantages that consistently deliver multi-million dollar results and secure justice for our clients. We invite you to experience the Attorney911 difference.

Advantage 1: An Insurance Defense Insider on Your Side

This is what truly sets Attorney911 apart from virtually every other personal injury firm in American Samoa. Our associate attorney, Lupe Peña, worked for a number of years at a national defense firm, immersing himself in the strategies that large insurance companies use to value, delay, and deny claims. He understands their entire playbook.

What This Means for YOUR Case:

• Anticipation: We can predict their tactics before they deploy them because Lupe used to deploy them.
• Valuation Insight: We know how they internally value claims, including the algorithms of software like Colossus, and how to counter their attempts to artificially lower your case’s worth.
• IME Doctor Knowledge: Lupe knows which “independent” medical exam doctors insurance companies favor – because he used to hire them. He understands their biases and how to challenge their findings.
• Negotiating Power: We speak their language fluently, giving us an unparalleled advantage in negotiations and ensuring they take your claim seriously.

No other firm in American Samoa can offer this level of tactical advantage. As client Donald Wilcox shared after another company refused his case, “Then I got a call from Manginello…I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” That’s the power of insider knowledge.

Advantage 2: A Track Record of Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results are not just claims; they are documented realities. Attorney911 has a proven history of securing significant compensation for victims facing life-altering injuries:

• Brain Injuries: We achieved a “multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss,” demonstrating our capability to handle catastrophic injury cases against large and complex defendants.
• Amputations: For a client whose leg injury led to a partial amputation after a car accident, “this case settled in the millions,” ensuring long-term financial security for one of our clients in American Samoa.
• 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,” highlighting our ability to navigate federal trucking regulations and take on powerful corporate defendants.

These multi-million dollar recoveries are not merely statistics; they are testaments to our relentless advocacy and our commitment to ensuring our clients in American Samoa receive justice rather than a lowball settlement.

Advantage 3: Federal Court Experience & Complex Litigation Prowess

Some legal emergencies demand a legal team that can operate beyond state courtrooms. Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, and our firm has experience with some of the most challenging litigation in the country, including being “one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation.”

Why This Matters for You:

• Complex Cases: Accidents involving 18-wheelers or large corporations often involve federal regulations (like FMCSA) and may be moved to federal court. We have the experience to litigate effectively in these forums.
• Powerful Opponents: Our experience fighting against billion-dollar corporations in cases like the BP explosion means we are not intimidated by well-funded defense teams.
• Strategic Advantage: Federal court experience is a powerful tool against insurance companies who often prefer to avoid the complexities and potential for larger jury awards in federal jurisdiction.

This level of experience is a critical asset for clients in American Samoa dealing with serious and complex cases.

Advantage 4: Unwavering Personal Attention – You Are Family Here

In contrast to high-volume settlement mills where you might feel like just a case number, Attorney911 is built on a foundation of personal connection and dedicated attention. We intentionally limit our caseload to ensure that every client in American Samoa receives the focus and care they deserve.

• As Chad Harris powerfully states, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”
• Ambur Hamilton echoed this, saying, “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.”
• Our consistent communication is frequently praised. Dame Haskett noted, “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.”
• Our dedicated staff, like Leonor, Melanie, and Zulema, are integral to this personal approach. Stephanie Hernandez described how “Leonor reached out to me…She took all the weight of my worries off my shoulders.”

You work directly with experienced attorneys, Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, who are intimately familiar with your case rather than a rotating cast of paralegals.

Advantage 5: Contingency Fee Basis – No Risk, No Upfront Cost

We understand that after an accident in American Samoa, financial stress is immense. That’s why Attorney911 operates on a contingency fee basis.

• Free Consultation: Your initial consultation with us is always 100% free and without obligation.
• No Upfront Costs: You pay absolutely nothing out of pocket to begin your case.
• “We Don’t Get Paid Unless We Win”: Our fees are a percentage of the compensation we recover for you. If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs, removing the financial burden from your shoulders.

This means you can pursue justice without adding to your financial worries. It aligns our success directly with yours.

When you’re facing a legal emergency in American Samoa, you need a firm with proven results, insider knowledge, and dedicated personal attention. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free, no-risk consultation. We are the unfair advantage you need. Hablamos Español.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motor Vehicle Accidents in American Samoa

After a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa, many questions can flood your mind. We’ve compiled answers to common concerns to help clarify the complexities of the legal process. At Attorney911, we believe that informed clients are empowered clients, which is why we offer comprehensive resources, including our YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm) and “Attorney 911 The Podcast,” to help you understand your rights.

Immediate Actions After an Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in American Samoa?
If you’ve been in an accident in American Samoa, prioritize safety: call 911 for law enforcement and medical assistance. Take extensive photos of vehicle damage, your injuries, and the scene. Exchange information with the other driver. Get witness contacts. Do NOT admit fault or give a recorded statement to any insurance company. Then, call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance.

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?
Yes, always call the police. A police report is vital for documenting the accident from an objective third party. In Texas, you’re legally required to report accidents involving injuries, fatalities, or property damage exceeding $1,000.

3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?
ABSOLUTELY. Adrenaline can mask pain, and serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not show symptoms immediately. A delay in seeking medical care can also be used by insurance companies to argue your injuries weren’t severe or weren’t caused by the accident. Get checked immediately at a local facility in American Samoa.

4. What information should I collect at the scene?
Collect the other driver’s name, phone, address, driver’s license number, and insurance details. Note their vehicle’s make, model, color, and license plate. Gather names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Take numerous photos of everything from multiple angles.

5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?
Only exchange necessary information. Do NOT discuss fault, apologize, or say “I’m sorry,” as these statements can be construed as an admission of guilt and used against you. Simply stick to the facts and remain calm.

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?
You can typically obtain the police report from the responding law enforcement agency in American Samoa, or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS). Your attorney can also help you secure this document.

Dealing with Insurance Companies

7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?
To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Never without an attorney. To your own insurance (for UM/UIM or PIP claims): You have a duty to cooperate, but it’s still best to consult with Attorney911 first. We can advise you on what information is safe to provide.

8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?
Tell them: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Provide only your name and the date of the accident. Do not discuss your injuries, the accident details, or fault. Refer all further communication to Attorney911.

9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?
No. Their estimate is typically a lowball offer, designed to save them money. Attorney911 will fight for the full and fair value of your vehicle (repair or replacement) and property damage.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?
NEVER accept a quick settlement offer before you fully understand the extent of your injuries and have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI). Once you sign a release, you cannot seek further compensation, even if your injuries worsen or require unexpected surgery.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?
This is where your own Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage becomes crucial. UM/UIM can compensate you for your injuries and damages if the at-fault driver has no insurance or insufficient coverage. Watch our video: “Uninsured & Underinsured Motorists” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kWcNFyb-Yq8

12. Why does insurance want me to sign a medical authorization?
They want broad access to your entire medical history—not just accident-related records—to dig for any pre-existing conditions they can use to deny or devalue your claim. Never sign a medical authorization without your attorney reviewing and limiting its scope.

The Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?
You likely have a personal injury case if another party’s negligence caused your accident, resulting in injuries or damages, and there is an insurance policy from which to recover. We offer a free consultation to evaluate your specific situation. Watch our video: “Do I Have a Good Case?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-PMMP5Jims

14. When should I hire a car accident lawyer?
Immediately. Evidence disappears quickly (surveillance footage often within 7-30 days), and insurance companies begin building a case against you from day one. The sooner you call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911, the better we can protect your rights and preserve evidence.

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?
In Texas, you generally have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, and 2 years from the date of death for a wrongful death claim. Missing this deadline will permanently bar your right to recover compensation.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?
Texas uses a “modified comparative negligence” rule (the 51% Bar Rule). If you are 50% or less at fault, you can still recover damages, but they will be reduced by your percentage of fault. If you are 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing. Insurance companies will always try to blame you.

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?
You can still recover compensation if your share of fault is 50% or less. Your total damages will be reduced by that percentage. Our job is to minimize any assigned fault against you. Lupe Peña’s background in insurance defense is a significant advantage here, as he understands how to dismantle their arguments.

18. Will my case go to trial?
While most personal injury cases settle before going to trial, Attorney911 prepares every case as if it will go to trial. This trial readiness gives us significant leverage in negotiations with insurance companies, as they know we are not afraid to fight for our clients. Watch our video: “Will Your Case Go to Trial?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Ed5AnmCMcc

19. How long will my case take to settle?
The timeline varies based on your injury severity. We do not settle until you have reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI), which could take 6 months for minor injuries or 18-24 months (or longer) for more serious, complex injuries. We prioritize your health and full recovery over a quick, low settlement.

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?
Generally, the process involves initial investigation, medical treatment to MMI, demand letter submission to insurance, negotiations, and if necessary, filing a lawsuit, discovery, mediation, and potentially trial. Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneVVs

Compensation & Damages

21. What is my case worth?
The value of your case depends on many factors: the severity of your injuries, medical costs (past and future), lost wages and earning capacity, pain and suffering, permanent impairment, and the available insurance coverage. Cases can range from $15,000 for minor soft tissue injuries to multi-millions for catastrophic injuries like brain injuries or amputations.

22. What types of damages can I recover?
You can recover economic damages (medical bills, lost wages, property damage) and non-economic damages (pain and suffering, mental anguish, disfigurement, loss of enjoyment of life). In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may also be awarded.

23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?
Yes. Pain and suffering is a key component of personal injury claims in Texas. There is generally no cap on these non-economic damages in motor vehicle accident cases.

24. What if I have a pre-existing condition?
You can still recover if the accident aggravated or worsened your pre-existing condition. This is known as the “eggshell plaintiff” rule—the defendant takes the victim as they find them. We work with medical experts to prove the accident made your condition worse.

25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?
Generally, compensation for physical injuries and medical expenses is UNTAXED. However, punitive damages, if awarded, are typically taxable. Consult a tax professional for specific advice.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?
Claim value is determined by assessing your medical expenses (past and future), lost income, permanent impairment rating, the impact on your daily life, and negotiating with insurance adjusters using precedents from comparable verdicts and settlements. Our multi-million dollar results validate our ability to accurately value and secure significant compensation.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?
Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing up front. Our fee, typically 33.33% if the case settles before trial and 40% if it goes to trial, is only collected if we successfully recover compensation for you. Watch our video: “How Do Contingency Fees Work?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=upcI_j6F7Nc

28. What does “no fee unless we win” mean?
It means you pay zero unless we obtain a recovery for you. We also advance all case costs, such as filing fees, expert witness fees, and investigation expenses. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing.

29. How often will I get updates?
Attorney911 prioritizes consistent communication. As client Dame Haskett said, “Consistent communication and not one time did i call and not get a clear answer.” We keep you informed every step of the way.

30. Who will actually handle my case?
At Attorney911, you work directly with experienced attorneys, including Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. We believe in personal attention. Client Chad Harris noted, “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

31. What if I already hired another attorney?
You have the right to switch attorneys if you are unhappy with your current representation. If your lawyer isn’t communicating or fighting for your best interests, we can discuss taking over your case. As client Greg Garcia shared, “In the beginning I had another attorney but he dropped my case although Mangiello law firm were able to help me out.”

Mistakes to Avoid & Additional Considerations

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?
Common mistakes include: giving a recorded statement without an attorney, accepting a quick lowball settlement, delaying medical treatment, having gaps in treatment, posting about your accident on social media, or signing releases without legal review. Watch our video: “Client Mistakes That Can Ruin Your Case” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r3IYsoxOSxY

33. Should I post about my accident on social media?
NO. Make all your social media profiles private immediately. Do not post about the accident, your injuries, or any activities. Insurance companies actively monitor social media for anything they can use to devalue your claim.

34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?
Releases are permanent and binding. Medical authorizations can grant unlimited access to your private medical history. Settlement offers are final. Once signed, these documents can severely harm your ability to recover full compensation, and often cannot be undone.

35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?
See one NOW. Explain that you may have been in shock and didn’t realize the severity of your injuries initially; delayed symptoms are common. While a delay can create a challenge, we can still help you pursue your claim.

36. Can I switch attorneys if I’m unhappy with my current lawyer?
YES. You can fire your attorney at any time. If your attorney isn’t communicating, isn’t fighting for you, or is pushing you to settle cheap, you have the right to switch. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. 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.” Call 1-888-ATTY-911 to discuss switching.

37. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Even though it’s your own policy, your insurance company will often fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need dedicated attorney representation in American Samoa. Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies) which can be critical for maximizing recovery. Lupe’s insurance knowledge is especially valuable here.

38. How is pain and suffering calculated?
Pain and suffering is typically calculated using a multiplier method: your total medical expenses multiplied by a factor (e.g., 1.5 to 5), plus distinct amounts for lost wages. The multiplier depends on injury severity, permanency, and impact on life. For severe injuries requiring surgery, or leading to an amputation (such as the multi-million dollar settlement we obtained in our client’s amputation case), the multiplier can be much higher, reflecting the profound and lasting impact on quality of life. Lupe understands precisely how these multipliers are valued by insurance companies, and we leverage that insight for our clients.

39. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?
Government claims have very specific and strict rules. You must file a formal notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations) to preserve your claim. Governmental entities often have sovereign immunity, which limits their liability, but there are exceptions. These cases are highly complex and require experienced legal counsel. Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience includes litigation against governmental bodies. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately if you believe a government vehicle caused your accident in American Samoa.

40. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?
If another driver flees the scene after hitting you in American Samoa, file a police report immediately; this is a serious criminal offense. Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage on your own policy is designed for this exact situation. Critical evidence, especially surveillance footage from businesses near the scene, is only retained for a short time (often 7-30 days). We send preservation letters immediately to secure this.

41. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?
YES. Your immigration status in the United States does NOT affect your right to claim compensation for injuries caused by another’s negligence. You are entitled to the same legal protections as any other resident. Your case is handled with strict confidentiality. Our team, which includes Lupe Peña who is fluent in Spanish, is dedicated to protecting all accident victims in American Samoa, regardless of immigration status. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 – we protect your rights and your privacy.

42. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?
Parking lot accidents in American Samoa are fully compensable. While insurance companies sometimes try to imply parking lot accidents are always “50/50” fault (which is incorrect), we can prove fault through surveillance video, witness statements, and detailed damage analysis. Texas comparative negligence rules still apply, and we have a strong track record of securing favorable outcomes in parking lot collisions.

43. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?
If you were an innocent passenger in a vehicle that caused an accident, you can pursue a claim against the driver’s insurance, even if the driver was a friend or family member (or an Uber/Lyft driver). You are an innocent victim, and the driver’s liability insurance covers passengers. These types of cases often settle more quickly because your lack of fault is usually clear. We handle these sensitive situations with professionalism.

44. What if the other driver died in the accident?
The death of the at-fault driver does not eliminate their liability. You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and their insurance policy. Insurance coverage still applies. Wrongful death laws protect both sides, and these cases are handled with sensitivity while vigorously protecting your rights.

Your Call to Action: Secure Your Future in American Samoa

The wake of a motor vehicle accident in American Samoa is a time of immense pain, confusion, and financial strain. You are likely facing medical bills, lost wages, and overwhelming paperwork from persistent insurance companies. But you don’t have to face this battle alone. Attorney911 is here to be your unwavering advocate, your legal emergency response team, and your unfair advantage against those who would deny you justice.

We have seen firsthand the devastating impact accidents can have on individuals and families in American Samoa. This is why our team, led by Ralph Manginello and bolstered by Lupe Peña’s exclusive insider knowledge of insurance defense tactics, is committed to fighting tirelessly to secure the maximum compensation you deserve. From multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries like brain damage and amputations to navigating complex trucking regulations in federal court, our results speak for themselves.

Don’t let vital evidence disappear, and do not let the insurance companies take advantage of your vulnerability. Every day you wait can compromise your case. Your rights, your recovery, and your future in American Samoa are too important to delay.

Take the first critical step toward justice today.

Call Attorney911 now for your FREE, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay us absolutely nothing unless we win your case. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.

Call 1-888-ATTY-911 – Your Legal Emergency Hotline.
Se Habla Español.

• 1-888-288-9911
• Visit our website for more information: https://attorney911.com
• Explore our comprehensive video resources: https://www.youtube.com/@Manginellolawfirm
• Listen to “Attorney 911 The Podcast” on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/bj/podcast/attorney-911/id1773141988

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC | Principal Office: Houston, Texas

Every case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. You may still be responsible for court costs and case expenses regardless of outcome. Free consultation available to discuss fee structure.

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