Motor Vehicle Accident Lawyers in Aransas County, Texas

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Aransas County, Texas, you’re not alone. Every year, thousands of Texans face the physical, emotional, and financial aftermath of motor vehicle crashes. At Attorney911, we understand the overwhelming challenges you’re facing right now – the pain, the medical bills, the insurance adjusters calling, and the uncertainty about what comes next.

Our firm has been serving accident victims across Texas for over 25 years, and we’re here to fight for you. With offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we bring our extensive experience to clients throughout Aransas County and the surrounding communities. When you call 1-888-ATTY-911, you’re reaching a legal emergency line that’s ready to protect your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.

The Reality of Car Accidents in Aransas County

Texas sees a motor vehicle crash every 57 seconds, resulting in over 251,000 injuries annually. In Aransas County, these accidents can happen anywhere – on Highway 35, local roads, or even in parking lots. The aftermath can be devastating:

Medical bills piling up while you’re unable to work
Insurance companies pressuring you to accept quick, lowball settlements
Physical pain and emotional trauma that lasts long after the crash
Financial uncertainty about how you’ll support your family

At Attorney911, we’ve helped countless clients in situations just like yours. As Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience, often says: “We don’t just handle cases – we fight for people whose lives have been turned upside down by someone else’s negligence.”

Why Aransas County Accident Victims Choose Attorney911

1. We Know Insurance Companies from the Inside Out

Our firm has a unique advantage that sets us apart from other law firms in Aransas County: Lupe Peña, one of our attorneys, spent years working for a national insurance defense firm. He knows exactly how insurance companies evaluate claims, what tactics they use to minimize payouts, and how to counter their strategies.

As Lupe explains: “I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a 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.”

This insider knowledge means we can:

Anticipate and counter the insurance company’s tactics
Know which “independent” medical examiners they’ll send you to – and how to challenge their biased reports
Understand how they calculate claim values using software like Colossus
Negotiate from a position of strength because we know their playbook

2. Proven Results That Speak for Themselves

We don’t just talk about results – we have the documented case outcomes to prove our ability to fight for maximum compensation:

“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.”

“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.”

Our results include:

Multi-million dollar settlements for brain injury cases
Significant recoveries for spinal cord injuries
Substantial compensation for wrongful death claims
Favorable outcomes in complex trucking accident cases

3. Federal Court Experience for Complex Cases

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas, giving us the ability to handle complex cases that may require federal court intervention. This is particularly important for:

Trucking accidents involving interstate commerce
Cases against large corporations
Matters involving federal regulations like FMCSA rules

Our firm was also one of the few selected to participate in BP explosion litigation, demonstrating our capability to take on billion-dollar corporations and complex mass tort cases.

4. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

When you work with Attorney911, you’re not just another case number. You’ll have direct access to Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers. Our clients consistently praise our communication and personal service:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

5. No Fee Unless We Win

We understand that accident victims often face financial hardship. That’s why we work on a contingency fee basis – you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to you.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Aransas County

Car Accidents

Car accidents are the most common type of motor vehicle crash in Aransas County. With busy roads and highways, these accidents can happen anywhere, often resulting in serious injuries.

Common causes of car accidents include:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding and reckless driving
Failure to yield right of way
Running red lights or stop signs
Following too closely (tailgating)
Drunk or drugged driving

Common injuries in car accidents:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Herniated or bulging discs
Broken bones and fractures
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Internal organ damage

Case Example:

“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.”

What This Means for You:
If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Aransas County, don’t let the insurance company minimize your claim. We know how to document the full extent of your injuries and fight for the compensation you deserve.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Trucking accidents often result in catastrophic injuries due to the size and weight disparity between commercial trucks and passenger vehicles. In Texas, we see:

39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes annually
608 trucking fatalities each year
1,601 serious injuries from truck accidents

Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide, making trucking accidents a significant concern in Aransas County and throughout the state.

Why trucking accidents are more complex:

Multiple liable parties (driver, trucking company, cargo loader, manufacturer)
Federal regulations (FMCSA rules on hours of service, maintenance, driver qualifications)
Higher insurance limits ($750,000 to $5,000,000 policies)
Critical evidence (ELD data, black boxes) that can be overwritten

Our Advantage:
With Ralph’s federal court admission and our experience in BP explosion litigation, we have the capability to take on large trucking companies and their insurers. We know how to:

Preserve critical evidence before it’s deleted
Identify FMCSA violations that establish negligence
Navigate complex insurance coverage issues
Fight for maximum compensation in catastrophic injury cases

Case Example:

“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.”

Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents are completely preventable tragedies that claim too many lives in Texas each year. In 2024:

1,053 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes
Alcohol was involved in 25.37% of all traffic fatalities
Over 24,000 DWI-related crashes occurred statewide

Legal Options After a Drunk Driving Accident:

Claim Against the Drunk Driver: The at-fault driver’s insurance should cover your damages.
Dram Shop Claim: Under Texas Alcoholic Beverage Code § 2.02, you may have a claim against the establishment that served the drunk driver if they were obviously intoxicated at the time of service.

Signs of Obvious Intoxication:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Strong odor of alcohol
Aggressive or erratic behavior
Difficulty counting money or handling objects

Our Advantage:
Ralph Manginello is a member of the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA), giving us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully handled DWI-related cases, including:

A case where charges were dismissed because a police department employee wasn’t properly maintaining breathalyzer machines
A case where charges were dismissed on the day of trial due to missing EMS and hospital notes
A case where video evidence showed our client wasn’t drunk, leading to dismissal

This criminal defense experience strengthens our ability to handle the civil claims arising from drunk driving accidents.

Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders. In Texas:

585 motorcyclists were killed in 2024
37% of those killed were not wearing helmets
90% of fatal victims were male

Texas Helmet Law:

Riders under 21 must wear helmets
Riders 21+ can ride without a helmet if they’ve completed a safety course OR have $10,000 in medical insurance

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents:

Failure to yield right of way (most common cause)
Driver inattention or distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents
Speeding or reckless driving

The Insurance Company’s Playbook:
Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents, using Texas’ 51% comparative fault rule to reduce or deny claims. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us an advantage in countering these arguments.

Pedestrian Accidents

Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users. In Texas:

6,095 pedestrian crashes occurred in 2024
768 pedestrians were killed
Pedestrians account for just 1% of crashes but 19% of all roadway deaths

Critical Legal Point:
Pedestrians ALWAYS have the right-of-way at intersections – even at unmarked crosswalks. Under Texas law, “Anytime there’s an intersection of two streets, the distance between them is a crosswalk,” even if it’s not marked.

Common Pedestrian Injuries:

Traumatic brain injuries
Spinal cord injuries
Broken pelvis and legs
Internal organ damage
Fatalities

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

Rideshare accidents present unique insurance challenges due to the different coverage phases:

Phase	Driver Status	Coverage Available
Period 0 – Offline	App off, personal use	Personal insurance only (Texas minimum: $30,000/$60,000/$25,000)
Period 1 – Waiting	App on, no ride request	Contingent coverage: $50,000/$100,000/$25,000
Period 2 – Accepted	Ride accepted, en route to pickup	Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability
Period 3 – Transporting	Passenger in vehicle	Full commercial: $1,000,000 liability

Why This Matters:
The insurance coverage available depends on what the driver was doing at the exact moment of the crash. This complexity makes rideshare accident claims particularly challenging to navigate.

Our Advantage:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into how rideshare companies and their insurers evaluate claims. We know how to:

Determine the correct insurance coverage phase
Identify all available insurance policies
Maximize recovery from multiple sources

Hit and Run Accidents

Hit and run accidents are unfortunately common, with one occurring every 43 seconds in the U.S. In Texas:

Hit and run is a criminal offense with severe penalties:
- Death: 2nd degree felony (2-20 years prison)
- Serious bodily injury: 3rd degree felony (2-10 years)
- Minor injury: State jail felony (up to 5 years)
- Property damage: Class B misdemeanor (up to 6 months)

Your Options After a Hit and Run:

Uninsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: Your own UM coverage can compensate you when the at-fault driver is unidentified.
Evidence Preservation: Surveillance footage is typically deleted within 7-30 days, making immediate action critical.

What We Do:
We send preservation letters immediately to:

Nearby businesses with surveillance cameras
Government entities with traffic cameras
Any potential witnesses

Urgency Matters:
Every day you wait, evidence disappears. Call Attorney911 immediately at 1-888-ATTY-911 to protect your rights.

What to Do After an Accident in Aransas County

The 48-Hour Evidence Preservation Protocol

Hour 1-6: Immediate Crisis Response

Safety First: If you can move safely, get to a secure location away from traffic.
Call 911: Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, get checked immediately. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries.
Document Everything:
- Take photos of all vehicle damage from multiple angles
- Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, and traffic signals
- Take photos of visible injuries
- Screenshot any messages visible on your phone
Exchange Information:
- Other driver’s name, phone number, address
- Insurance company and policy number
- Driver’s license number
- License plate number
- Vehicle make, model, and color
Witnesses: Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses.
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance before speaking to any insurance company.

Hour 6-24: Evidence Preservation

Digital Preservation:
- Preserve all texts, calls, photos, and videos related to the accident
- Do NOT delete anything from your phone
- Screenshot everything relevant
- Email copies to yourself for backup
Physical Evidence:
- Secure damaged clothing, glasses, and personal items
- Keep receipts for any expenses (towing, rental car, medications)
- Do NOT repair your vehicle yet – preserve the damage
Medical Records:
- Request copies of all ER and hospital records
- Keep all discharge paperwork
- Follow up with your primary care physician within 24-48 hours
Insurance Communications:
- Note any calls from insurance companies
- Do NOT give recorded statements yet
- Do NOT sign anything
- Do NOT accept any settlement offers
- Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first”
Social Media:
- Make ALL profiles private immediately
- Do NOT post about the accident
- Do NOT post photos of injuries or activities
- Tell friends and family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

Legal Consultation: Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney.
Insurance Response: If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney.
Settlement Offers: Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review.
Evidence Backup: Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage.

Week One Priorities:

Medical Follow-Up: Continue documenting all injuries and follow all doctor recommendations.
Investigation Begins: Your attorney obtains police reports, sends preservation letters, and secures surveillance footage.
Communication: Your attorney handles ALL insurance communication while you focus on recovery.

Why Time is Critical

Evidence disappears on a predictable schedule:

Timeframe	What Disappears
Day 1-7	Witness memories begin fading
Day 7-30	Surveillance footage deleted (gas stations: 7-14 days, retail stores: 30 days)
Month 1-2	Insurance companies solidify their defense position
Month 2-6	Trucking ELD data can be overwritten (30-180 days)
Month 6-12	Witnesses become unreachable, memories fade
Month 12-24	Approaching statute of limitations deadline

Call Attorney911 NOW: 1-888-ATTY-911

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Statute of Limitations

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit (Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003). For wrongful death claims, the 2-year clock starts from the date of death.

Exceptions:

Discovery Rule: The statute may start later if the injury wasn’t immediately discoverable.
Defendant Absence: The clock may be tolled if the defendant leaves Texas.
Mental Incapacity: The clock may be tolled during incapacity.

Critical Point: Miss the deadline and your case is barred forever.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system with a 51% bar:

If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.
If you’re 51% or more at fault, you recover nothing.

Examples:

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

Why This Matters:
Insurance companies always try to assign maximum fault to you. Even small fault percentages can cost you thousands:

10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

Our Advantage:
Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background means we know exactly how insurance companies try to shift blame. He spent years making these arguments for insurance companies – now he uses that knowledge to protect you.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

Texas requires all drivers to carry minimum insurance coverage:

Coverage Type	Minimum Required
Bodily Injury – Per Person	$30,000
Bodily Injury – Per Accident	$60,000
Property Damage – Per Accident	$25,000

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

Approximately 15.4% of U.S. motorists are uninsured (about 1 in 7 drivers)
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage is critical for protection
Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies)

Proving Liability in Your Aransas County Accident Case

To win your case, we must prove four elements of negligence:

Duty of Care: The at-fault party had a legal obligation to act reasonably.
Breach of Duty: They violated that duty through action or inaction.
Causation: The breach directly caused your injuries.
Damages: You suffered actual harm (physical, financial, emotional).

Evidence We Use to Prove Your Case

Physical Evidence:

Vehicle damage photographs from all angles
Skid marks, debris, and road damage
Damaged personal property (clothing, glasses, phone)
Weather and road condition documentation

Documentary Evidence:

Police accident report
911 call recordings
Traffic camera footage
Surveillance footage from nearby businesses
Medical records and bills
Employment records (for lost wages)
Cell phone records (proving distraction)

Electronic Evidence:

ELD (Electronic Logging Device) data from trucks
Vehicle black box/EDR (Event Data Recorder)
GPS/telematics data
Dashcam footage
Social media posts (theirs, not yours)

Testimonial Evidence:

Witness statements
Expert witness testimony
Medical expert opinions
Accident reconstruction specialists

Multiple Liable Parties

In many cases, more than one party may be responsible for your injuries:

Trucking Accidents:

Truck driver (negligent operation)
Trucking company (negligent hiring, supervision, maintenance)
Cargo loader (improper loading causing instability)
Vehicle manufacturer (defective parts)
Maintenance company (improper repairs)

Rideshare Accidents:

Rideshare driver
Rideshare company (Uber/Lyft)
Other at-fault drivers
Vehicle owner (if different from driver)

Drunk Driving Accidents:

Drunk driver
Bar/restaurant (dram shop liability)
Social host (limited circumstances)
Liquor store (serving obviously intoxicated person)

More liable parties = more insurance policies = higher recovery potential.

Damages You Can Recover

Economic Damages (No Cap in Texas)

Damage Type	What It Covers
Medical Expenses (Past)	ER, hospital, surgery, doctors, physical therapy, medications, medical equipment
Medical Expenses (Future)	Ongoing treatment, future surgeries, lifetime medications, long-term care
Lost Wages (Past)	Income lost from date of accident to present
Lost Earning Capacity (Future)	Reduced ability to earn income in the future
Property Damage	Vehicle repair or replacement, personal property
Out-of-Pocket Expenses	Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, household help

Non-Economic Damages (No Cap Except Medical Malpractice)

Damage Type	What It Covers
Pain and Suffering	Physical pain from injuries, both past and future
Mental Anguish	Emotional distress, anxiety, depression, fear, PTSD
Physical Impairment	Loss of physical function, disability, limitations
Disfigurement	Scarring, permanent visible injuries affecting appearance
Loss of Consortium	Impact on marriage/family relationships, loss of companionship
Loss of Enjoyment of Life	Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive/Exemplary Damages (Capped)

Available for gross negligence, fraud, or malice. Common in drunk driving cases.

Cap: The greater of:

$200,000, OR
2x economic damages + 1x non-economic damages (capped at $750,000 for non-economic portion)

How Insurance Companies Try to Minimize Your Claim

Insurance companies have a playbook of tactics they use to minimize or deny your claim. At Attorney911, we know this playbook because Lupe Peña used to work for them. Here’s what they’re doing behind the scenes:

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement (Days 1-3)

What They Do:
Within hours or days of your accident, an insurance adjuster will contact you – often while you’re still in the hospital, on pain medication, or overwhelmed by the situation. They’ll sound friendly and helpful, saying things like:

“We just want to help you”
“We need to get your side of the story to process your claim”
“This is routine, everyone does this”
“It’ll only take a few minutes”

What They’re Really Doing:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions designed to:

Get you to minimize your injuries
Admit partial fault
Say things that can be used against you later

Common Questions and Traps:

Question They Ask	What They Want You to Say
“You’re feeling better now though, right?”	Trap you into saying you’re improving
“It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”	Minimize collision severity
“You were able to walk away from the scene?”	Suggest injuries aren’t serious
“Were you distracted at all?”	Get you to admit distraction
“How fast were you going?”	Hope you overestimate or say “I don’t know”

The Truth:

You are NOT required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurance company.
Giving a statement without an attorney almost always hurts your case.
Insurance companies know this – that’s why they push so hard.

How We Counter:

We become your voice with the insurance company.
All calls go through us.
We prepare you properly if a statement becomes absolutely necessary.
We know their questions because Lupe asked them for years.

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer (Weeks 1-3)

What They Do:
Within days or weeks of your accident, the insurance company will offer you quick money:

Typical offers: $2,000-$5,000
Sometimes $10,000-$15,000 if they’re scared
Sounds good when you have zero money and mounting bills

The Trap:
You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. Consider this scenario:

What Happens	Result
Day 3: Insurance offers $3,500 “final settlement”	You’re desperate, in pain, scared
You sign the release	You think it’s over
Week 6: MRI shows herniated disc requiring surgery	Surgery costs $100,000
TOO LATE	You signed a release, can’t reopen claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket	Insurance pays nothing more

The Release is Permanent and Final.

How We Counter:

NEVER settle before Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI)
MMI = as good as you’ll get medically
Could be 6 months, 12 months, 24+ months depending on injuries
Can’t know true case value until MMI
We know offers are ALWAYS lowball
Lupe calculated these lowball offers for years – he KNOWS they’re offering 10-20% of true value

Tactic #3: “Independent” Medical Exam (Months 2-6)

What They Call It:
“Independent Medical Examination” (IME)

What It Really Is:
An insurance company-hired doctor whose job is to minimize your injuries.

How Insurance Companies Choose IME Doctors:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports (NOT who’s most qualified)
Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid THOUSANDS by insurance companies ($2,000-$5,000 per exam)
Repeat business = repeat favorable reports

What Happens at an IME:

10-15 minute “examination” (vs. your treating doctor’s thorough evaluation)
Rarely review your complete medical records beforehand
Ask questions designed to elicit “I’m feeling better” responses
Look for ANY reason to minimize injuries

Common IME Doctor Findings:

What They Say	What It Means
“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes”	Everyone over 40 has some arthritis – used to deny claims
“Injuries consistent with minor trauma”	Minimizes your pain and suffering
“Patient can return to full duty work”	Eliminates lost wage claims
“Treatment has been excessive”	Attacks your treating doctors
“Subjective complaints out of proportion to objective findings”	Medical speak for “this patient is a liar”

How We Counter:

We prepare you extensively before the exam
We send complete medical records to the IME doctor first (forcing review)
We challenge biased IME reports with our own medical experts
Lupe knows these specific doctors and their biases – he hired them for years

Tactic #4: Delay and Financial Pressure (Months 6-12+)

What They Do:
The insurance company drags out your case, hoping you’ll get desperate and accept less:

“Still investigating your claim”
“Waiting for medical records” (that we sent months ago)
“Reviewing your file”
“Need additional information”
Ignore calls and emails
Take weeks to respond to simple questions

Why Delay Works:
Insurance Companies Have:

Unlimited time
Unlimited resources
No financial pressure
Earning interest on YOUR settlement money while delaying

You Have:

Mounting bills
Zero income
Creditors threatening
Need money NOW

Financial Desperation Makes You Accept Less:

Month 1: You’d reject $5,000 offer
Month 6: You’d seriously consider $5,000
Month 12: You’d BEG for $5,000 just to end the nightmare

How We Counter:

We file a lawsuit to force deadlines
We set depositions, forcing them to produce witnesses
We prepare for trial, showing we’re serious
Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them – knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What They Do:
Insurance companies hire private investigators to:

Video you doing daily activities
Film from public places (your driveway, street, stores)
Follow you to appointments, errands, social activities
Look for ANY activity that contradicts your injury claims
One video of you bending over = “Not really injured”

They Monitor ALL Your Social Media:

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, LinkedIn, Twitter, YouTube, Snapchat
Screenshot EVERYTHING: photos, posts, check-ins, comments, likes
Monitor your friends’ profiles for posts mentioning you
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Archive your entire social media history

Examples We’ve Defended Against:

Example	What Happened	Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Photo	Gym photo from 3 YEARS AGO	Presented as recent, contradicts injury	We proved metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in	Facebook check-in at restaurant	“Partying and having fun”	Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment	Friend posted “Had fun yesterday!”	Evidence of non-injury	Client was resting at home
Walking Dog	Video of client walking dog slowly	“Not disabled”	Doctor RECOMMENDED short walks
Smiling in Photo	Family photo smiling	“Not in pain – she’s smiling!”	Everyone smiles for photos

7 Rules for Clients:

Make ALL profiles private immediately
DON’T post about accident, injuries, activities, emotions, case
DON’T check in anywhere
Tell friends/family: don’t tag, don’t post about you
Don’t accept friend requests from strangers (fake profiles)
BEST: Stay off social media entirely during your case
Assume EVERYTHING is being monitored

Lupe’s Insider Quote:

“I’ve reviewed hundreds of surveillance videos and social media posts as a 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.”

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What They Do:
Insurance companies try to assign you maximum fault to reduce their payment:

“You were speeding” (without evidence)
“You weren’t paying attention” (speculation)
“You could have avoided this” (hindsight bias)
“You were distracted” (guessing)
“You contributed to this accident” (shifting blame)

Why They Do This:
Texas’ 51% bar rule means:

If you’re 51%+ at fault → You get NOTHING
If you’re 50% or less at fault → Your damages reduced by your percentage

Even Small Fault Percentages Cost Thousands:

10% fault on a $100,000 case = $10,000 less for you
25% fault on a $250,000 case = $62,500 less for you
40% fault on a $500,000 case = $200,000 less for you

How We Counter:

Aggressive liability investigation
Accident reconstruction proving other driver’s fault
Witness statements supporting your version
Police report analysis emphasizing citations
Expert testimony on perception-reaction time
Lupe knows their fault arguments because he made them for years – now he defeats them

Tactic #7: Colossus – The Software That Undervalues Your Claim

How Insurance Companies ACTUALLY Value Your Claim:

Lupe knows this from the inside – he used these systems when he worked for insurance companies.

Colossus Software System:
Used by Allstate, State Farm, Liberty Mutual, and others

How It Works:

Data Entry: Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment, costs, jurisdiction
Coding: Injuries coded using standardized medical terms
Calculation: Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
Range Output: System provides recommended settlement range
Authority: Adjuster typically cannot exceed without supervisor approval

How They Manipulate Colossus:

Manipulation	Effect
Low Injury Codes	“Soft tissue strain” instead of “disc herniation” reduces value 50-100%
Excessive Treatment Flags	Therapy beyond “normal” range triggers reduction
Conservative Treatment Penalty	Chiropractic valued less than MD
Pre-Existing Reduction	Any prior condition used to reduce value
Jurisdiction Factor	Low-verdict counties get lower values

Why Lupe’s Experience Matters:

Knows how to code injuries properly for maximum value
Knows which medical terms trigger higher valuations
Knows when Colossus output is artificially low
Knows how to present records to beat the algorithm
Worked with these systems for years as a defense attorney

Tactic #8: The Policy Limits Bluff

What They Do:
Insurance companies claim limited coverage:

“We only have $30,000 in coverage”
“That’s the policy limit – we can’t pay more”
“Take it or leave it”
Hope you don’t investigate further

What They’re Hiding:

Umbrella policies (additional $500,000-$5,000,000)
Commercial policies (if driver was working)
Corporate policies (parent company coverage)
Multiple policies that stack
Excess coverage layers

Why They Hide Coverage:

Hoping you’ll settle for minimum limits
Saving millions in additional coverage
Betting you won’t hire an attorney to investigate
Most people don’t know to look for additional policies

How We Counter:

We investigate ALL available coverage
Demand full policy disclosure
Subpoena insurance files if necessary
Search for umbrella policies
Identify corporate coverage
Find employer policies
Discover parent company coverage
File lawsuits to force disclosure

Real Example:
Insurance claimed $30,000 policy limit. We investigated and found:

$30,000 personal auto policy
$1,000,000 commercial policy (driver was making delivery)
$2,000,000 umbrella policy
$5,000,000 corporate policy (parent company)

Total available: $8,030,000, not $30,000.

Client recovered $3,200,000 instead of $30,000.

This is why hiring an attorney who investigates ALL coverage matters.

Medical Knowledge: Understanding Your Injuries

At Attorney911, we understand not just the legal aspects of your case, but also the medical realities. This helps us connect your injuries to the accident and fight for full compensation.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

Immediate vs. Delayed Symptoms:

Immediate Symptoms (At Accident Scene or Within Hours):

Loss of consciousness (even brief – seconds to minutes)
Confusion and disorientation (“Where am I? What happened?”)
Vomiting and nausea
Seizures
Severe headache
Dilated pupils
Slurred speech
Weakness or numbness

Delayed Symptoms (Hours to Days Later – CRITICAL):

Worsening headaches that don’t respond to medication
Repeated vomiting
Seizures developing days later
Slurred speech or difficulty speaking
Personality changes and mood swings
Sleep disturbances (sleeping much more or can’t sleep)
Sensitivity to light and noise
Confusion and memory problems worsening

Why Delayed Symptoms Matter Legally:
Insurance companies claim delayed symptoms aren’t from the accident. We use medical experts to explain that symptom progression is NORMAL for brain injuries.

Severity Classifications:

Classification	Characteristics
Mild TBI / Concussion	Brief LOC (seconds to minutes), GCS 13-15, may seem “fine” initially but can have serious long-term effects
Moderate TBI	LOC minutes to hours, GCS 9-12, lasting cognitive impairment, requires hospitalization
Severe TBI	Extended unconsciousness or coma, GCS 3-8, permanent disability likely, lifetime care needs

Long-Term Complications:

Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): Progressive brain degeneration, personality changes, dementia
Post-Concussive Syndrome: Headaches, dizziness lasting months or years (affects 10-15%)
Increased Dementia Risk: Single moderate TBI doubles dementia risk later in life
Personality and Mood Disorders: Depression (40-50% of TBI patients), anxiety, irritability
Seizure Disorders: Can develop months or years after injury
Cognitive Impairment: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, slowed processing

Spinal Cord Injury

Injury Levels and Impact:

Cervical Spine (C1-C8, Neck Region):

C1-C4 (High Cervical): Quadriplegia (all four limbs paralyzed), possible ventilator dependence, 24/7 care required
C5-C8 (Low Cervical): Quadriplegia with some arm/hand function, wheelchair dependent

Thoracic Spine (T1-T12, Mid-Back):

Paraplegia: Lower body paralysis, wheelchair dependent
Trunk control varies by level

Lumbar Spine (L1-L5, Lower Back):

Varying degrees of leg weakness/paralysis
Bowel/bladder dysfunction common
May walk with assistive devices

ASIA Impairment Scale:

Grade	Classification	Prognosis
A	Complete	No motor or sensory function below injury – worst
B	Sensory Incomplete	Sensory function but no motor function
C	Motor Incomplete	Motor function but most muscles <3/5 strength
D	Motor Incomplete	Motor function with most muscles ≥3/5 strength
E	Normal	Full motor and sensory function (recovered)

Secondary Complications:

Pressure sores (leading cause of hospitalization)
Respiratory complications (pneumonia – leading cause of death)
Bowel and bladder dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction
Autonomic dysreflexia (life-threatening blood pressure crisis)
Depression (40-60% of patients)
Shortened life expectancy (5-15 years on average)

Amputation

Types:

Traumatic Amputation: Limb severed at accident scene by collision impact
Surgical Amputation: Due to crush injuries or infections (like our documented case)

Levels:

Above-Knee: More difficult, less mobility, more expensive prosthetics
Below-Knee: Better mobility potential, easier prosthetic use
Upper Extremity: Arm, hand, fingers
Multiple Limbs: Exponentially more challenging

Phantom Limb Pain:

80% of amputees experience phantom pain
Feeling pain in limb that’s no longer there
Can be severe and debilitating
Often permanent condition
Requires lifetime pain management

Attorney911 Case Result:

“In a recent case, our client’s leg was injured in a car accident. Staff infections during treatment led to a partial amputation. This case settled in the millions”

Burn Injuries

Classifications:

Degree	Characteristics	Treatment
First-Degree	Superficial, like sunburn, heals 7-10 days	Outpatient
Second-Degree	Blistering, severe pain, may scar	Monitor, possible hospital
Third-Degree	Full thickness, destroys all skin, always scars	Skin grafting required
Fourth-Degree	Extends into muscle and bone	Often requires amputation

Body Surface Area Impact:

% Body Burned	Treatment Required
<10%	Usually outpatient
10-20%	Hospitalization required
20-40%	Burn center, ICU, multiple surgeries
>40%	Extremely life-threatening
>60%	Often fatal

Herniated Disc

Treatment Timeline:

Acute Phase (Weeks 1-6): Severe pain, medications, rest. Cost: $2,000-$5,000
Conservative Treatment (Weeks 6-12): Physical therapy, chiropractic. Cost: $5,000-$12,000
Interventional (If Conservative Fails): Epidural steroid injections. Cost: $3,000-$6,000
Surgery (If Injections Fail): Microdiscectomy or fusion. Cost: $50,000-$120,000

Permanent Restrictions Impact:

Can’t return to physical labor jobs
Lost earning capacity claims
Ongoing pain management needs

Soft Tissue Injuries

Why Insurance Undervalues Soft Tissue:

No broken bones or surgery = appears “minor”
Difficult to see on X-rays
Symptoms are subjective (pain, stiffness)

Why Soft Tissue Can Be SERIOUS:

15-20% develop chronic pain
Can prevent return to physical jobs
Whiplash can cause permanent problems
Often misdiagnosed initially (rotator cuff tears thought to be sprains)

Proper Documentation CRITICAL:

Detailed pain descriptions to doctors
Consistent treatment (no gaps)
MRI proving injury
Physical therapy records
Work restrictions documented

Psychological Injuries

PTSD After Motor Vehicle Accidents:

32-45% of accident victims develop PTSD symptoms
Anxiety about driving again
Fear of getting in cars
Panic attacks near accident location
Sleep disturbances, nightmares, flashbacks
Avoidance behaviors

Compensable Psychological Damages:

Mental anguish
Emotional distress
Anxiety and depression
Loss of enjoyment of life
Fear and worry
Relationship impacts

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Aransas County Accident Case

1. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

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

What This Means for Your Case:

We know their tactics because Lupe used them
We anticipate their strategies before they deploy them
We know how they value claims internally
We know which IME doctors they favor
We know how to beat their algorithms
We speak their language

No other firm in Aransas County has this advantage.

2. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Attorney911 has recovered millions for victims of:

Brain injuries: “Multi-million dollar settlement for client who suffered brain injury with vision loss”
Amputations: “This case settled in the millions”
Trucking wrongful death: “Recovered millions of dollars in compensation”
Maritime injuries: “Significant cash settlement”

Our results prove we don’t settle cheap.

3. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas.

Why This Matters:

Complex cases often end up in federal court
FMCSA trucking regulations are federal
Diversity jurisdiction for out-of-state defendants
Federal court requires different skills than state court

BP Explosion Litigation: “Our firm is one of the few firms in Texas to be involved in BP explosion litigation”

4. Personal Attention from Experienced Attorneys

What Clients Say:

“You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.” – Chad Harris

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer…Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” – Ambur Hamilton

When you work with Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers.

5. Contingency Fee – No Risk to You

“We don’t get paid unless we win your case.”

Free consultation
No upfront costs
No hourly billing
We advance all case costs
You pay nothing unless we recover for you

Frequently Asked Questions About Car Accidents in Aransas County

Immediate After Accident

1. What should I do immediately after a car accident in Aransas County?

If you’ve been in an accident in Aransas County:

Call 911 and report the accident
Seek medical attention even if you feel fine (adrenaline masks injuries)
Document everything: photos of damage, injuries, scene
Exchange information with the other driver
Get witness names and phone numbers
Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

2. Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call police. The police report is critical evidence. In Texas, you must report accidents with injuries, deaths, or property damage over $1,000.

3. Should I seek medical attention if I don’t feel hurt?

ABSOLUTELY. Many serious injuries don’t show symptoms immediately:

Traumatic brain injuries can take days to manifest
Internal bleeding may not be obvious
Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
Adrenaline masks pain at the scene

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against you. Get checked immediately.

4. What information should I collect at the scene?

Other driver: name, phone, address, driver’s license, insurance
Vehicle: make, model, color, license plate
Witnesses: names and phone numbers
Photos: all vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, traffic signals
Police: officer name, badge number, report number

5. Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

Exchange information only
Do NOT discuss fault
Do NOT apologize or say “I’m sorry” (can be used as admission)
Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
Stick to facts only

6. How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

In Aransas County, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency or through the Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS).

Dealing with Insurance

7. Should I give a recorded statement to insurance?

To the other driver’s insurance: NO. Not without an attorney.
To your own insurance: You have a duty to cooperate, but call Attorney911 first. We can advise you.

8. What if the other driver’s insurance contacts me?

Say: “I need to speak with my attorney first.” Give only basic information (name, date of accident). Do NOT give a recorded statement. Do NOT discuss injuries or fault.

9. Do I have to accept the insurance company’s estimate?

No. Their estimate is just an offer. It’s usually far below actual value. Attorney911 fights for what your case is really worth.

10. Should I accept a quick settlement offer?

NEVER accept a settlement before knowing the full extent of your injuries. Once you sign a release, you cannot get more money even if you need surgery later.

11. What if the other driver is uninsured/underinsured?

Your own UM/UIM coverage can compensate you. 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 unlimited access to your ENTIRE medical history to find pre-existing conditions to use against you. Never sign without attorney review.

Legal Process

13. Do I have a personal injury case?

You may have a case if:

Someone else was at fault (even partially)
You suffered injuries or damages
There is insurance to recover from

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 daily. Insurance companies start building their defense against you from day one. Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911

15. How much time do I have to file (statute of limitations)?

In Texas: 2 years from the date of the accident for personal injury, 2 years from the date of death for wrongful death. Miss it = case barred forever.

16. What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

Texas uses the 51% bar rule. If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover (reduced by your fault %). If 51%+ at fault, you get nothing.

Watch our video: “What Is Comparative Negligence?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=agzHKY_v9l4

17. What happens if I was partially at fault?

You can still recover if you were 50% or less at fault. Your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault.

18. Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. But Attorney911 prepares every case AS IF it’s going to trial. That’s what gives us leverage.

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?

Depends on injury severity. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). Could be 6 months for minor injuries, 18-24 months for serious injuries.

20. What is the legal process step-by-step?

Investigation and evidence gathering
Medical treatment to MMI
Demand letter to insurance
Negotiation
Lawsuit if necessary
Discovery
Mediation
Trial if needed

Watch our video: “What Is the Process for a Personal Injury Claim?” at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwzYymneDVs

Compensation

21. What is my case worth?

Depends on: injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, permanent impairment, pain and suffering, insurance available. Cases range from $15,000 (soft tissue) to millions (catastrophic injury).

22. What types of damages can I recover?

Medical expenses (past and future)
Lost wages and earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Mental anguish
Physical impairment
Disfigurement
Loss of enjoyment of life
Property damage

23. Can I get compensation for pain and suffering?

Yes. Pain and suffering is a significant component of personal injury cases in Texas. There is NO CAP on pain and suffering (except medical malpractice).

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 called the “eggshell plaintiff” rule.

25. Will I have to pay taxes on my settlement?

Generally, compensation for physical injuries is NOT taxable. Punitive damages ARE taxable. Consult a tax professional.

26. How is the value of my claim determined?

Based on: medical bills, future treatment costs, lost income, permanent impairment rating, comparable verdicts, severity of injuries, impact on daily life.

Attorney Relationship

27. How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on contingency: 33.33% before trial, 40% if trial. You pay nothing upfront. We don’t get paid unless we win.

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?

You pay zero unless we recover money for you. If we don’t win, you owe us nothing. We advance all case costs.

29. How often will I get updates?

Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said: “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.”

30. Who will actually handle my case?

At Attorney911, you work directly with Ralph Manginello and Lupe Peña, not just paralegals. As Chad Harris said: “You are NOT just some client…You are FAMILY to them.”

31. What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch. As client 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.”

Mistakes to Avoid

32. What common mistakes can hurt my case?

Giving a recorded statement without an attorney
Accepting a quick settlement
Delaying medical treatment
Gaps in treatment
Posting on social media
Signing releases or authorizations
Not documenting everything

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 profiles private. Don’t post about the accident, injuries, or activities. Insurance monitors everything.

34. Why shouldn’t I sign anything without a lawyer?

Releases are PERMANENT. Medical authorizations give unlimited access. Settlement offers are binding. Once signed, you can’t undo it.

35. What if I didn’t see a doctor right away?

See one NOW. Explain you didn’t realize the severity of your injuries. Delayed symptoms are common. We can still help.

Additional Common Questions

36. What if I have a pre-existing condition?

You can still recover. If the accident AGGRAVATED your pre-existing condition, you’re entitled to compensation for the aggravation. “Eggshell plaintiff” rule: Defendant takes victim as they find them.

Example: You had mild occasional back pain. The accident caused a herniated disc requiring surgery. You recover for the NEW injury, not just the pre-existing pain.

We hire medical experts to prove the difference. Lupe knows how insurance attacks pre-existing conditions—he used this defense for years.

37. 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.

38. What if the insurance company is my own insurance (UM/UIM claim)?

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims are against YOUR insurance when the other driver has no insurance or insufficient insurance. Your insurance company will fight your claim just like the other driver’s insurance would. You need attorney representation.

Texas allows inter-policy stacking (combining multiple UM policies). Lupe’s insurance knowledge is critical for maximizing UM/UIM recovery.

39. How do you calculate pain and suffering?

Most commonly using the multiplier method: Medical expenses × multiplier (1.5 to 5) = pain & suffering.

Multiplier depends on:

Injury severity
Permanency
Impact on life
Clear liability

Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain and suffering.

Lupe calculated these for years—he knows how to justify higher multipliers.

40. What if I was hit by a government vehicle (city bus, police car, etc.)?

Government claims have special rules. You must file notice within 6 months (much shorter than the 2-year statute of limitations). Sovereign immunity protects government entities. Damage caps may apply.

These cases are complex—you need an experienced attorney. Ralph’s 25+ years includes government litigation. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 immediately—the 6-month deadline is strict.

41. What if the other driver fled the scene (hit and run)?

File a police report immediately (hit and run is a criminal offense). Your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage applies. Surveillance footage is CRITICAL—gas stations, businesses, Ring doorbells, traffic cameras. Most footage is deleted within 7-30 days.

We send preservation letters immediately. Texas allows UM stacking. We’ve recovered substantial settlements in hit and run cases through UM claims.

42. What if I’m an undocumented immigrant—can I still file a claim?

YES. Immigration status does NOT affect your right to compensation for injuries. You’re entitled to full recovery regardless of immigration status. Your case is confidential.

We’ve successfully represented clients of all immigration statuses. Lupe is fluent in Spanish. Call 1-888-ATTY-911—we protect your rights and your privacy.

43. What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies love to argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (LIE). We prove fault through:

Surveillance video
Witness statements
Damage analysis
Traffic patterns

Texas comparative negligence rules apply. We’ve won many parking lot cases with clear liability findings.

44. What if I was a passenger in the at-fault vehicle?

You can sue the driver even if you were riding with them (friend, family member, Uber driver). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues (you weren’t driving). These cases often settle quickly because liability is clear.

We handle the difficult conversation so you don’t have to.

45. What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. Death doesn’t eliminate liability. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.

These cases are emotionally complex but legally straightforward. We handle them with sensitivity while protecting your rights.

Aransas County-Specific Information

At Attorney911, we understand that Aransas County has unique characteristics that affect motor vehicle accidents:

Local Roads and Highways: With Highway 35 running through the area, we’re familiar with the traffic patterns and accident hotspots in Aransas County.
Coastal Considerations: As a coastal community, we understand the unique challenges of maritime-related accidents and boat collisions.
Local Courts: We’re familiar with the Aransas County court system and the judges who may preside over your case.
Community Focus: As a Texas-based firm with offices throughout the state, we’re committed to serving Aransas County residents with the same dedication we bring to our Houston, Austin, and Beaumont clients.

Whether your accident occurred on local roads, highways, or even on the water, our team has the experience and local knowledge to fight for your rights.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Aransas County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you.

Call Attorney911 now for a free consultation: 1-888-ATTY-911

We offer:

Free, no-obligation case evaluation
No upfront costs – we don’t get paid unless we win
Personal attention from experienced attorneys
Aggressive representation against insurance companies
Spanish-speaking services available

Hablamos Español. Lupe Peña and our team are ready to help Spanish-speaking clients.

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call 1-888-ATTY-911 today and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.

Attorney911 – Your Legal Emergency Line
1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)
https://attorney911.com

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Principal Office: Houston, Texas
Serving Aransas County and all of Texas