Car Accidents in Muleshoe, Bailey County, Texas: How Attorney911 Can Help You Recover

If You’ve Been Injured in a Muleshoe Car Accident, We’re Here to Fight for You

Every 57 seconds, a motor vehicle crash occurs somewhere in Texas. In 2024 alone, over 251,977 people were injured on Texas roads – and many of those accidents happened right here in Bailey County. If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Muleshoe or anywhere in Bailey County, you’re not alone. The experienced attorneys at Attorney911 understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on families in our community.

Ralph Manginello, our founding attorney with over 25 years of experience handling car accident cases across Texas, knows that the moments after a crash can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve made our legal emergency line – 1-888-ATTY-911 – available 24/7 to Muleshoe residents. When you call, you’ll speak directly with our team, not an answering service. As client Chad Harris shared, “You are NOT a pest to them and you are NOT just some client… You are FAMILY to them.”

The Reality of Car Accidents in Muleshoe and Bailey County

Muleshoe sits at the intersection of US Highway 84 and State Highway 214, making it a hub for both local traffic and through-traffic heading to larger cities like Lubbock and Amarillo. The rural nature of these highways, combined with the agricultural vehicles that frequently travel them, creates unique dangers for drivers in our area.

In 2024, Texas saw:

• 1 crash every 57 seconds
• 1 person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds
• 4,150 fatalities on our roads

While Bailey County may not have the traffic volume of larger Texas counties, our rural roads present their own set of challenges:

• Limited lighting on many county roads
• Agricultural equipment sharing the roadway
• Higher speeds on open highways
• Limited emergency response times in remote areas
• Weather-related hazards unique to the Texas Panhandle

These factors contribute to accidents that can leave victims with serious injuries and uncertain futures. Many Muleshoe residents work in agriculture or commute to jobs in nearby towns, making vehicle accidents particularly devastating for our local economy.

Common Injuries in Muleshoe Car Accidents

At Attorney911, we’ve seen firsthand how car accidents can change lives in an instant. The injuries our clients suffer range from minor to catastrophic, including:

Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries

These are among the most common injuries we see, often resulting from rear-end collisions. While some people recover quickly, others develop chronic pain that lasts for years. Insurance companies frequently try to downplay these injuries, but we know how to document their true impact on your life.

Herniated Discs and Spinal Injuries

The force of a collision can cause discs in your spine to bulge or rupture, leading to chronic pain, numbness, and even paralysis in severe cases. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment, including physical therapy, injections, or even surgery. 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 – proving that even complications from what might seem like a “minor” injury can have life-altering consequences.

Broken Bones and Fractures

From simple fractures to complex breaks requiring surgical intervention, broken bones can keep you out of work for months. We’ve helped Muleshoe clients recover compensation for:

• Broken arms and legs
• Rib fractures
• Pelvic fractures
• Facial fractures

Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)

Even a “mild” concussion can have lasting effects. More severe TBIs can result in:

• Memory loss
• Personality changes
• Vision problems
• Cognitive impairment
• Permanent disability

Our firm secured a multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss when a log dropped on him at a logging company. This case demonstrates our ability to handle complex brain injury claims and recover maximum compensation.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

These catastrophic injuries often result from high-speed collisions or rollover accidents. They can lead to:

• Partial or complete paralysis
• Loss of bowel and bladder control
• Chronic pain
• Lifelong medical care needs

Internal Organ Damage

The impact of a collision can cause internal bleeding or damage to organs that may not be immediately apparent. These injuries can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Many accident victims develop anxiety about driving, experience flashbacks, or suffer from depression. These psychological injuries are just as real as physical ones and deserve compensation.

Why Muleshoe Car Accident Cases Are Different

Car accidents in rural areas like Bailey County present unique challenges that our firm is uniquely equipped to handle:

Limited Emergency Response

With Muleshoe’s location in the Texas Panhandle, emergency medical services may take longer to arrive at accident scenes. This can affect both the immediate treatment of injuries and the documentation of the accident. Our team knows how to work with local first responders and medical providers to ensure all evidence is properly preserved.

Agricultural Vehicle Involvement

Many accidents in our area involve tractors, combines, or other large agricultural equipment sharing the road with passenger vehicles. These cases often require specialized knowledge of farm equipment regulations and liability issues.

Weather-Related Accidents

The Texas Panhandle experiences extreme weather conditions that contribute to accidents:

• Sudden dust storms that reduce visibility
• Ice and snow in winter months
• High winds that can affect vehicle stability
• Flash flooding on rural roads

Limited Surveillance Evidence

Unlike urban areas with traffic cameras and business security systems, rural accidents often lack video evidence. Our team knows how to conduct thorough investigations to gather other forms of evidence, including:

• Witness statements
• Vehicle black box data
• Accident reconstruction reports
• Cell phone records

Insurance Company Tactics in Rural Areas

Insurance adjusters often assume rural accident victims won’t hire attorneys and may make lowball settlement offers. They might claim:

• “You were speeding on these open roads”
• “You should have seen the other vehicle”
• “This is just a minor injury”
• “We don’t need to involve attorneys”

Having a former insurance defense attorney like Lupe Peña on our team gives us insider knowledge of these tactics. 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.”

The Insurance Reality: What You’re Really Up Against

Texas is an at-fault state, meaning the driver who caused the accident is responsible for the damages. However, insurance companies don’t make it easy to recover what you deserve. Here’s what really happens after an accident:

The 51% Rule

Texas uses a modified comparative negligence system. If you’re found to be 51% or more at fault for the accident, you cannot recover any compensation. Even if you’re 50% or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault.

Insurance companies know this and will try to assign as much blame as possible to you. They might claim:

• You were speeding (even if you weren’t)
• You could have avoided the accident
• You weren’t paying attention
• You contributed to your own injuries

Lupe Peña’s experience working for insurance companies gives us an advantage in countering these arguments. He knows exactly how they calculate fault percentages and how to challenge their assessments.

Minimum Coverage Isn’t Enough

Texas only requires drivers to carry minimum liability coverage of:

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

For serious injuries, these minimums are often exhausted quickly. That’s why we always investigate for additional insurance policies, including:

• Umbrella policies
• Commercial policies (if the at-fault driver was working)
• Underinsured motorist coverage from your own policy

Insurance Tactics to Watch Out For

Insurance companies have a playbook of tactics designed to minimize your claim. Here are the most common ones we see in Muleshoe cases:

1. The Quick Cash Offer

Within days of your accident, an insurance adjuster might call with a “generous” offer of $2,000-$5,000. They’ll say things like:

• “This is our best offer”
• “Take it now or we’ll withdraw it”
• “You don’t need an attorney for this amount”

The trap: You don’t know the full extent of your injuries yet. What seems like a lot of money now might not cover your medical bills in six months. Once you sign a release, you can’t go back for more money – even if you need surgery later.

2. The Recorded Statement

Adjusters will ask for a recorded statement “to process your claim.” They’ll ask questions designed to get you to say things that hurt your case:

• “You’re feeling better now, right?”
• “It wasn’t that bad of an impact, was it?”
• “You were able to walk away from the scene?”
• “Were you distracted at all?”

The trap: Everything you say is recorded and can be used against you. Adjusters are trained to ask leading questions that minimize your injuries and maximize your fault.

3. The Independent Medical Exam (IME)

If you pursue a claim, the insurance company may require you to see a doctor of their choosing. This is called an “Independent Medical Exam,” but it’s anything but independent.

The trap: These doctors are paid by the insurance company to find reasons to minimize your injuries. They might:

• Claim your injuries are pre-existing
• Say you’re exaggerating your symptoms
• Recommend less treatment than your doctor
• Claim you’ve reached maximum medical improvement

Lupe Peña knows this tactic well – he used to hire these doctors for insurance companies. Now he helps our clients prepare for these exams and counter the doctors’ reports.

4. Surveillance

Insurance companies may hire private investigators to follow you and record your activities. They’re looking for any evidence that contradicts your injury claims.

The trap: They’ll take innocent activities out of context. A video of you carrying groceries might be used to claim you’re not really injured. They might monitor your social media for posts that could be used against you.

5. Delay Tactics

Insurance companies know that the longer they delay your claim, the more desperate you may become to settle. They might:

• “Lose” your paperwork
• Take weeks to respond to simple questions
• Claim they’re still “investigating”
• Offer less money as time goes on

The trap: As your medical bills pile up and you can’t work, you may feel pressured to accept a low offer just to get some money.

6. Pre-Existing Condition Blame

If you have any prior injuries or medical conditions, the insurance company will try to blame your current problems on those rather than the accident.

The trap: They’ll request broad medical authorizations to search through your entire medical history for any reason to deny your claim.

Why Attorney911 Is the Right Choice for Muleshoe Car Accident Victims

When you’re injured in a car accident in Bailey County, you need an attorney who understands both the legal system and our local community. Here’s why Muleshoe residents choose Attorney911:

1. We Know Bailey County

While we have offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we regularly handle cases throughout Texas, including rural areas like Bailey County. We understand:

• The unique challenges of rural accidents
• The local court system and judges
• The insurance adjusters who handle claims in our area
• The medical providers available to treat accident injuries

2. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims. He knows:

• How insurance companies calculate claim values
• Which doctors they use for IMEs (and how to counter their reports)
• Their delay tactics and how to overcome them
• How to maximize your claim’s value

This insider knowledge is a game-changer for our clients. As client Jamin Marroquin said about Ralph Manginello, “Mr. Manginello guided me through the whole process with great expertise… tenacious, accessible, and determined throughout the 19 months.”

3. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves. We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims, including:

• A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Millions for a client whose leg injury led to partial amputation after complications
• Significant settlements for clients with herniated discs, broken bones, and other serious injuries

As client MONGO SLADE shared, “I was rear-ended and the team got right to work… I also got a very nice settlement.”

4. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for:

• Complex cases involving multiple defendants
• Cases against large corporations
• Trucking accidents with federal regulations
• Cases that may be removed from state to federal court

Our involvement in the BP explosion litigation demonstrates our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

5. Personal Attention You Deserve

Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, we treat every client like family. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers.

Client Ambur Hamilton said it best: “I never felt like ‘just another case’ they were working on.” And client Dame Haskett shared, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer… Ralph reached out personally.”

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs
• You only pay if we recover money for you
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery

This ensures that every Muleshoe resident has access to top-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

What to Do After a Car Accident in Muleshoe

The actions you take in the hours and days after a car accident can significantly impact your ability to recover compensation. Here’s what you should do:

At the Scene (If You’re Able)

1. Call 911 – Report the accident and request medical assistance if anyone is injured.
2. Document everything – Take photos of:
   • All vehicle damage (from multiple angles)
   • The accident scene (road conditions, skid marks, traffic signals)
   • Any visible injuries
   • The other vehicle’s license plate
3. Exchange information with the other driver(s), including:
   • Name, phone number, and address
   • Insurance company and policy number
   • Driver’s license number
4. Get witness information – Names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the accident.
5. Don’t admit fault – Even saying “I’m sorry” can be used against you later.
6. Call Attorney911 – 1-888-ATTY-911. We can guide you through what to say (and not say) to insurance companies.

In the First 48 Hours

1. Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, many injuries don’t show symptoms immediately. Adrenaline can mask pain.
2. Preserve evidence – Don’t delete any photos, videos, or messages related to the accident.
3. Don’t give recorded statements – Refer all insurance calls to Attorney911.
4. Don’t sign anything – Insurance companies may try to get you to sign releases or authorizations.
5. Follow up with your doctor – Keep all medical appointments and follow treatment recommendations.

In the First Week

1. Contact Attorney911 – If you haven’t already, call 1-888-ATTY-911 to schedule a free consultation.
2. Keep a journal – Document your pain levels, limitations, and how the accident is affecting your daily life.
3. Save all receipts – Medical bills, prescription costs, transportation expenses, etc.
4. Don’t post on social media – Insurance companies monitor social media for evidence to use against you.
5. Follow your doctor’s orders – Gaps in treatment can be used to claim your injuries aren’t serious.

Evidence That Disappears Quickly

Some evidence is only available for a limited time after an accident. We act quickly to preserve:

• Surveillance footage – Typically deleted within 7-30 days
• Witness memories – Details fade quickly
• Vehicle black box data – Can be overwritten
• Skid marks and debris – Cleared by road crews
• 911 call recordings – May be purged after a certain period

That’s why it’s critical to call Attorney911 as soon as possible after your accident. We send preservation letters to all relevant parties to ensure evidence is not destroyed.

Common Types of Car Accidents in Muleshoe and Bailey County

While any type of car accident can occur in our area, some are more common in rural Texas:

Rear-End Collisions

These often occur:

• At stop signs or traffic signals
• When vehicles slow for agricultural equipment
• In low-visibility conditions (dust storms, fog)
• When drivers are distracted

Head-On Collisions

Particularly dangerous on rural highways, these can happen when:

• A driver crosses the center line
• Someone is driving the wrong way on a divided highway
• A driver swerves to avoid an animal or obstacle

Rollover Accidents

More common in rural areas due to:

• Higher speeds on open roads
• Uneven road surfaces
• Collisions with large animals
• Vehicle instability with certain loads

Intersection Accidents

Common at:

• The intersection of US-84 and SH-214 in Muleshoe
• Rural intersections with limited visibility
• Uncontrolled intersections in residential areas

Single-Vehicle Accidents

Often caused by:

• Hitting large animals (deer, cattle)
• Losing control on gravel roads
• Driving off the road to avoid collisions
• Weather-related loss of control

Accidents Involving Agricultural Vehicles

Unique to rural areas, these accidents can involve:

• Tractors and combines
• Hay trucks and other farm equipment
• Slow-moving vehicles with limited visibility

How We Prove Liability in Muleshoe Car Accident Cases

To recover compensation, we must prove that the other driver was negligent. This requires gathering and presenting evidence that shows:

1. The Other Driver Owed You a Duty of Care

All drivers have a legal duty to operate their vehicles safely and follow traffic laws.

2. They Breached That Duty

We must show that the other driver failed to meet the standard of care, such as:

• Speeding
• Running a stop sign or red light
• Driving while distracted
• Driving under the influence
• Failing to yield the right of way

3. The Breach Caused Your Injuries

We must establish a direct link between the other driver’s negligence and your injuries.

4. You Suffered Damages

This includes medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Evidence We Use to Prove Your Case

Police Reports

The Muleshoe Police Department or Bailey County Sheriff’s Office will create a report documenting:

• The date, time, and location of the accident
• The parties involved
• Witness statements
• Citations issued
• The officer’s opinion on fault

Witness Statements

We interview witnesses to gather their accounts of what happened. Witnesses can provide crucial information about:

• Who had the right of way
• Whether drivers were speeding or distracted
• Road conditions at the time of the accident

Photographs and Videos

Photos from the scene can show:

• Vehicle damage
• Skid marks
• Road conditions
• Traffic signals and signs
• Injuries

Medical Records

Your medical records document:

• The injuries you suffered
• The treatment you received
• Your prognosis
• The cost of your medical care

Expert Testimony

We work with experts who can provide specialized knowledge, including:

• Accident reconstructionists – To determine how the accident occurred
• Medical experts – To explain your injuries and treatment
• Economists – To calculate your lost earning capacity
• Life care planners – To estimate your future medical needs

Electronic Data

Modern vehicles often contain electronic data that can provide valuable information:

• Black box/EDR data – Can show vehicle speed, braking, and other factors
• Cell phone records – Can prove distracted driving
• GPS data – Can show the vehicle’s location and speed

Surveillance Footage

While less common in rural areas, we still check for:

• Traffic cameras
• Security cameras from nearby businesses
• Dashcam footage from other vehicles

What You Can Recover in a Muleshoe Car Accident Case

If we prove the other driver was at fault, you may be entitled to compensation for:

Economic Damages

These are quantifiable financial losses, including:

• Medical expenses – Past, present, and future medical bills related to your injuries
• Lost wages – Income you’ve lost due to time off work
• Lost earning capacity – If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or reduce your earning potential
• Property damage – Repair or replacement of your vehicle and other damaged property
• Out-of-pocket expenses – Transportation to medical appointments, home modifications, etc.

Non-Economic Damages

These compensate for intangible losses, including:

• Pain and suffering – Physical pain from your injuries
• Mental anguish – Emotional distress, anxiety, depression
• Physical impairment – Loss of physical function or disability
• Disfigurement – Scarring or other permanent visible injuries
• Loss of consortium – Impact on your relationship with your spouse
• Loss of enjoyment of life – Inability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed

Punitive Damages

In cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are designed to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Examples include:

• Drunk driving accidents
• Extreme speeding or reckless driving
• Hit-and-run accidents

How Case Value Is Determined

Insurance companies use various methods to calculate the value of your claim. One common approach is the multiplier method:

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

The multiplier typically ranges from 1.5 to 5, depending on factors such as:

• The severity of your injuries
• Whether your injuries are permanent
• The impact on your daily life
• The clarity of liability (who was at fault)
• Your likeability as a plaintiff

For example:

• Minor injuries with quick recovery: 1.5-2 multiplier
• Moderate injuries requiring months of recovery: 2-3 multiplier
• Severe injuries requiring surgery: 3-4 multiplier
• Catastrophic injuries with permanent disability: 4-5+ multiplier

Lupe Peña’s experience working for insurance companies gives us an advantage in negotiating higher multipliers. He knows how they calculate these values and how to present your case to justify a higher multiplier.

The Legal Process: What to Expect

1. Free Consultation

We offer a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case. During this meeting, we’ll:

• Review the details of your accident
• Explain your legal rights
• Answer your questions
• Discuss our fee structure

2. Investigation

If you choose to hire us, we’ll immediately begin investigating your case. This includes:

• Obtaining the police report
• Interviewing witnesses
• Preserving evidence
• Reviewing medical records
• Consulting with experts

3. Medical Treatment

We’ll work with your doctors to ensure you receive the treatment you need. We can also help you find medical providers who will treat you on a lien basis, meaning they’ll wait for payment until your case settles.

4. Demand Letter

Once you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI), we’ll send a demand letter to the insurance company outlining:

• The facts of the accident
• The other driver’s negligence
• Your injuries and treatment
• Your damages
• Our settlement demand

5. Negotiation

The insurance company will typically respond with a counteroffer. We’ll negotiate on your behalf to reach a fair settlement.

6. Lawsuit (If Necessary)

If we can’t reach a fair settlement through negotiation, we’ll file a lawsuit. This involves:

• Filing a complaint in court
• Engaging in discovery (exchanging information with the other side)
• Taking depositions
• Possibly going to mediation
• Preparing for trial

7. Settlement or Trial

Most cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

Frequently Asked Questions About Muleshoe Car Accidents

What should I do immediately after a car accident in Muleshoe or Bailey County?

If you’ve been in an accident in Muleshoe, Bailey County, or anywhere in the Texas Panhandle:

1. Call 911 to report the accident and request medical assistance if needed
2. Seek medical attention even if you feel fine – adrenaline can mask injuries
3. Document everything: take photos of the scene, vehicle damage, and your injuries
4. Exchange information with the other driver(s)
5. Get contact information from any witnesses
6. Do NOT give a recorded statement to any insurance company
7. Call Attorney911 at 1-888-ATTY-911 for immediate legal guidance

Should I call the police even for a minor accident?

Yes. Always call the police after an accident in Bailey County. The police report is critical evidence for your claim. In Texas, you’re required to report accidents that result in:

• Injury or death
• Property damage over $1,000
• Disabling damage to any vehicle

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 at first
• Herniated discs may not cause pain for weeks
• Adrenaline can mask pain at the scene

Insurance companies use delays in treatment against accident victims. Getting checked immediately creates a record of your injuries.

What information should I collect at the accident scene?

Collect as much information as possible:

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

Should I talk to the other driver or admit fault?

• Exchange information only
• Do NOT discuss fault or apologize
• Do NOT say “I’m sorry” – this can be used as an admission of fault
• Do NOT give your opinion on what happened
• Stick to the facts only

How do I obtain a copy of the accident report?

You can obtain the police report from:

• The Muleshoe Police Department (for accidents within city limits)
• The Bailey County Sheriff’s Office (for accidents outside city limits)
• The Texas Department of Transportation’s Crash Records Information System (CRIS)

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 on what to say.

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.

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

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

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.

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 – the defendant takes the victim as they find them.

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 at 1-888-ATTY-911 as soon as possible after your accident.

How much time do I have to file a lawsuit (statute of limitations)?

In Texas, you have 2 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. For wrongful death claims, you have 2 years from the date of death. If you miss this deadline, your case will be barred forever.

What is comparative negligence and how does it affect me?

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

• If you’re 50% or less at fault, you can recover damages (reduced by your percentage of fault)
• If you’re 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover anything

Insurance companies will try to assign as much fault as possible to you to reduce their payment.

Will my case go to trial?

Most cases settle before trial. However, we prepare every case as if it’s going to trial. This approach gives us leverage in negotiations and ensures we’re ready if the case does go to court.

How long will my case take to settle?

The timeline depends on the severity of your injuries. We don’t settle until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement (MMI). This could be:

• 6 months for minor injuries
• 12-18 months for moderate injuries
• 24+ months for serious or catastrophic injuries

What is my case worth?

The value of your case depends on many factors, including:

• The severity of your injuries
• Your medical expenses
• Your lost wages and earning capacity
• The impact on your daily life
• The clarity of liability (who was at fault)
• The insurance coverage available

Cases can range from $15,000 for minor injuries to millions for catastrophic injuries.

What types of damages can I recover?

You may be entitled to compensation for:

• 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

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 damages (except in medical malpractice cases).

What if the other driver is uninsured or underinsured?

Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage can compensate you when:

• The other driver has no insurance
• The other driver has insufficient insurance
• The other driver fled the scene (hit and run)

Texas allows you to stack UM/UIM coverage from multiple policies.

How much do car accident lawyers cost?

Attorney911 works on a contingency fee basis:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery (typically 33.33% before trial, 40% if we go to trial)
• You only pay if we recover money for you

What does “no fee unless we win” mean?

It means:

• You pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you
• If we don’t win your case, you owe us nothing
• We advance all case costs (filing fees, expert witnesses, etc.)
• Our fee comes out of your settlement or verdict

How often will I get updates on my case?

Attorney911 provides regular updates. As client Dame Haskett said, “Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” We believe in keeping our clients informed every step of the way.

Who will actually handle my case?

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

What if I already hired another attorney?

You can switch attorneys at any time. Attorney911 has taken over many cases from other attorneys. 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.”

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

Uninsured/underinsured motorist claims are against your own 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 for these claims.

How do you calculate pain and suffering?

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

The multiplier depends on:

• Injury severity
• Permanency
• Impact on your life
• Clarity of liability

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, and damage caps may apply. These cases are complex – you need an experienced attorney.

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

File a police report immediately. Your uninsured motorist (UM) coverage applies when the at-fault driver is unidentified. Surveillance footage is critical – most is deleted within 7-30 days. We send preservation letters immediately to secure this evidence.

What if I’m an undocumented immigrant – can I still file a claim?

YES. Your 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 Peña is fluent in Spanish.

What if the accident happened in a parking lot?

Parking lot accidents are fully compensable. Insurance companies often argue that parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault, but this isn’t true. We prove fault through:

• Surveillance video
• Witness statements
• Damage analysis
• Traffic patterns

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, etc.). You’re an innocent victim. The driver’s insurance covers passengers. No comparative fault issues apply to you.

What if the other driver died in the accident?

You can still pursue a claim against the deceased driver’s estate and insurance. The insurance policy still applies. The estate may have assets. Wrongful death laws protect both sides.

Why Muleshoe Residents Choose Attorney911

When you’re injured in a car accident in Bailey County, you need an attorney who understands both the legal system and our local community. Here’s why Muleshoe residents choose Attorney911:

1. We Know Bailey County

While we have offices in Houston, Austin, and Beaumont, we regularly handle cases throughout Texas, including rural areas like Bailey County. We understand:

• The unique challenges of rural accidents
• The local court system and judges
• The insurance adjusters who handle claims in our area
• The medical providers available to treat accident injuries

2. Insurance Defense Insider Advantage

Lupe Peña worked for years at a national defense firm, learning firsthand how large insurance companies value claims. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for accident victims. He knows:

• How insurance companies calculate claim values
• Which doctors they use for IMEs (and how to counter their reports)
• Their delay tactics and how to overcome them
• How to maximize your claim’s value

3. Multi-Million Dollar Results

Our results speak for themselves. We’ve recovered millions for car accident victims, including:

• A multi-million dollar settlement for a client who suffered a brain injury with vision loss
• Millions for a client whose leg injury led to partial amputation after complications
• Significant settlements for clients with herniated discs, broken bones, and other serious injuries

4. Federal Court Experience

Ralph Manginello is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court, Southern District of Texas. This federal court experience is crucial for:

• Complex cases involving multiple defendants
• Cases against large corporations
• Trucking accidents with federal regulations
• Cases that may be removed from state to federal court

Our involvement in the BP explosion litigation demonstrates our ability to take on billion-dollar corporations and win.

5. Personal Attention You Deserve

Unlike high-volume firms where you’re just a case number, we treat every client like family. You’ll work directly with Ralph Manginello or Lupe Peña, not just paralegals or case managers.

6. No Fee Unless We Win

We work on a contingency fee basis, which means:

• You pay nothing upfront
• We advance all case costs
• You only pay if we recover money for you
• Our fee is a percentage of your recovery

This ensures that every Muleshoe resident has access to top-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.

7. Bilingual Services

Lupe Peña is fluent in Spanish, and our staff includes Spanish speakers like Zulema. As client Celia Dominguez shared, “Especially Miss Zulema, who is always very kind and always translates.” We ensure language is never a barrier to justice.

8. Community Trust

We’re proud to serve the Muleshoe community and have earned the trust of our neighbors. Our reputation is built on results, not just advertising. As client Jacqueline Johnson noted, “One of Houston’s Great Men Trae Tha Truth has recommended this law firm. So if he is vouching for them then I know they do good work.”

Don’t Wait – Call Attorney911 Today

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident in Muleshoe or anywhere in Bailey County, don’t wait to get the help you need. Every day you wait, evidence disappears and insurance companies build their case against you.

Call our legal emergency line at 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911) for a free, no-obligation consultation. We’re available 24/7 to help you understand your rights and options.

Remember:

• Free consultation – no obligation
• No fee unless we win your case
• We advance all case costs
• Se habla español
• We handle everything – you focus on recovery

As client Glenda Walker said, “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.”

Don’t let insurance companies take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 today at 1-888-ATTY-911 and let us fight for the compensation you deserve.