Motor Vehicle Accidents in Bowie County, Texas: Your Complete Legal Guide

If you’ve been injured in a car accident in Bowie County, Texas, you’re not alone. With over 251,977 people injured in Texas motor vehicle crashes in 2024 alone – that’s one person injured every 2 minutes and 5 seconds – our roads have become increasingly dangerous. At Attorney911, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families. With Ralph Manginello’s 25+ years of experience handling car accident cases across Texas, our team is uniquely positioned to fight for the compensation you deserve.

Bowie County’s mix of rural roads, busy highways, and growing communities creates unique accident risks. Whether you were rear-ended on I-30, involved in a drunk driving collision in Texarkana, or struck by a distracted driver on a local road, our firm has the expertise to handle your case. We’ve recovered millions for accident victims across Texas, including multi-million dollar settlements for catastrophic injuries.

Why Bowie County Accidents Require Local Expertise

Bowie County presents specific challenges for accident victims:

Highway dangers: I-30 sees heavy commercial truck traffic, increasing the risk of serious collisions
Rural road hazards: Many county roads lack proper lighting and signage, contributing to accidents
Local court knowledge: We understand how Bowie County courts handle personal injury cases
Insurance company tactics: Texas adjusters often try to minimize claims from smaller counties

Our team knows how to navigate these local challenges while leveraging our statewide experience to maximize your recovery.

Common Types of Motor Vehicle Accidents in Bowie County

Car Accidents (Most Common)

Car accidents account for the majority of collisions in Bowie County. With 251,977 injuries statewide in 2024 and one crash occurring every 57 seconds in Texas, these accidents are unfortunately common.

Common causes in Bowie County:

Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
Speeding on rural roads and I-30
Failure to yield at intersections
Drunk driving (especially on weekends)
Weather-related accidents (rain, fog)

Common injuries:

Whiplash and soft tissue injuries
Herniated discs
Broken bones (arms, legs, ribs)
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Spinal cord injuries
Internal organ damage
Psychological trauma (PTSD, anxiety)

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.

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day and handled everything. It only took 6 months – amazing!” – Chavodrian M.

18-Wheeler and Trucking Accidents

Bowie County’s location along I-30 makes it a hotspot for trucking accidents. In 2024, Texas saw 39,393 commercial motor vehicle crashes, resulting in 608 fatalities and 1,601 serious injuries. Texas accounts for 11% of all fatal truck crashes nationwide.

Why trucking accidents are more severe:

Trucks weigh up to 80,000 lbs (vs. 4,000 lbs for passenger cars)
Higher center of gravity increases rollover risk
Longer stopping distances
Larger blind spots

Federal regulations we investigate:

Hours of Service (HOS) violations (11-hour driving limit, 14-hour window)
Electronic Logging Device (ELD) data (must be preserved for 6 months)
Driver qualification requirements (CDL, medical certification)
Vehicle maintenance records
Drug and alcohol testing results

Multiple liable parties in trucking accidents:

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

“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.”

Recent Texas trucking verdicts:

Oncor Electric: $37.5 million (distracted truck driver)
New Prime I-35 pileup: $44.1 million (6 deaths)
Ben E. Keith (Fort Worth): $35 million settlement

Drunk Driving Accidents

In 2024, Texas saw 1,053 alcohol-impaired driving deaths, accounting for 25.37% of all traffic fatalities. Bowie County has seen its share of these preventable tragedies.

Texas dram shop liability (TABC § 2.02):
Establishments can be held liable if they served alcohol to someone who was obviously intoxicated and that person then caused an accident.

Signs of obvious intoxication:

Slurred speech
Bloodshot or glassy eyes
Unsteady gait or stumbling
Strong odor of alcohol
Impaired coordination
Aggressive or erratic behavior

Potentially liable parties:

Drunk driver
Bars and nightclubs
Restaurants serving alcohol
Liquor stores
Social hosts (limited circumstances)

Punitive damages available:
Drunk driving cases often qualify for punitive damages due to the gross negligence involved.

Our criminal defense advantage:
Ralph Manginello’s membership in the Harris County Criminal Lawyers Association (HCCLA) gives us unique insight into both the criminal and civil aspects of drunk driving cases. We’ve successfully handled numerous DWI cases, including:

A case where improperly maintained breathalyzer machines led to dismissal
A case where missing EMS and hospital notes resulted in dismissal at trial
A case where video evidence showed the client was not intoxicated

Motorcycle Accidents

Texas saw 585 motorcyclist fatalities in 2024, with 37% of those killed not wearing helmets. Bowie County’s rural roads can be particularly dangerous for riders.

Texas helmet law:

Required for all riders under 21
Riders 21+ may ride without helmets 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)
Driver inattention/distraction
Unsafe lane changes
Left-turn accidents (T-bone/head-on)
Speeding/reckless driving

Comparative negligence challenges:
Insurance companies often try to blame motorcyclists for accidents. With Texas’ 51% bar rule, this can completely bar recovery. Lupe Peña’s insurance defense experience helps us counter these arguments effectively.

Pedestrian Accidents

In 2024, Texas saw 6,095 pedestrian crashes resulting in 768 fatalities. 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. Many drivers don’t know this – the distance between any two intersecting streets is legally considered a crosswalk.

Common injuries:

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

Rideshare Accidents (Uber/Lyft)

With the growth of rideshare services, these accidents are becoming more common in Bowie County.

Rideshare insurance phases (critical for recovery):

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

Who can be injured:

21% riders
21% drivers
58% third parties (other drivers, pedestrians)

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense background gives us unique insight into navigating these complex insurance scenarios.

What to Do Immediately After an Accident in Bowie County

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. Adrenaline masks injuries

✅ Document Everything:

Take photos of ALL vehicle damage (every angle)
Photograph the accident scene, road conditions, traffic signals
Take photos of visible injuries
Screenshot any messages visible on your phone

✅ Exchange Information:

Other driver’s name, phone, address
Insurance company and policy number
Driver’s license number
License plate number
Vehicle make, model, color

✅ Witnesses:

Get names and phone numbers of any witnesses
Ask if they saw what happened
Record their statements if possible

✅ 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, 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, 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/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/family not to tag you in posts

Hour 24-48: Strategic Decisions

✅ Legal Consultation:

Speak with an experienced motor vehicle accident attorney
Call Attorney911: 1-888-ATTY-911 for a free consultation
Have your documentation ready

✅ Insurance Response:

If insurance contacts you, refer them to your attorney
Say: “My attorney will be in touch with you”
Provide only basic information: name, date of accident, that you were involved

✅ Settlement Offers:

Do NOT accept or sign anything without lawyer review
Early offers are ALWAYS lowball offers
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet

✅ Evidence Backup:

Upload all screenshots and photos to cloud storage
Email copies to yourself and a family member
Create a written timeline of events while memory is fresh

Why Evidence Disappears Daily

Every day you wait, critical evidence is being lost:

7-30 days: Surveillance footage from nearby businesses is typically deleted
30-180 days: ELD/black box data from trucks can be overwritten
Days to weeks: Witness memories fade quickly
Weeks to months: Skid marks fade, accident scenes are repaired
Months to years: Medical conditions may be harder to link to the accident

Within 24 hours of being retained, Attorney911 sends preservation letters to:

Other driver’s insurance company
Trucking companies (for commercial vehicle accidents)
Businesses near the accident scene
Employers (for employment records)
Property owners (for security camera footage)
Government entities (for traffic camera footage)
Vehicle manufacturers (for black box data)

These letters legally require evidence preservation before automatic deletion.

Texas Motor Vehicle Law Framework

Statute of Limitations

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 16.003

Claim Type	Time Limit	Starts From
Personal Injury	2 years	Date of accident
Wrongful Death	2 years	Date of death
Property Damage	2 years	Date of damage
Government Claims	6 months notice	Date of incident

Exceptions:

Discovery Rule: SOL may start later if injury/cause not immediately discoverable
Defendant Absence: Tolled if defendant leaves Texas
Mental Incapacity: Tolled during incapacity

CRITICAL: Miss the deadline = case barred forever. Cannot be extended or waived.

Comparative Negligence (51% Bar Rule)

Texas Civil Practice & Remedies Code § 33.001

Texas uses modified comparative negligence:

If you are 50% or less at fault → You can recover damages (reduced by your % of fault)
If you are 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 cost you thousands:

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

Lupe Peña’s insurance defense experience helps us counter these arguments effectively.

Texas Minimum Auto Insurance Requirements

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

Uninsured Motorist Statistics:

15.4% of US motorists are uninsured (approximately 1 in 7 drivers)
UM/UIM coverage is critical for protection
Texas allows inter-policy stacking

How Insurance Companies Fight Your Claim

Lupe Peña spent years working for insurance companies before joining Attorney911. He knows their tactics because he used them himself. Now he uses that knowledge to fight for victims.

Tactic #1: Quick Contact & Recorded Statement

What they do:
Within days of your accident, insurance adjusters contact you – often while you’re:

Still in the hospital
On pain medication
Scared about your injuries and financial future
Confused about the legal process

Their friendly approach:

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

Their real purpose:
They’re building their defense against you with leading questions:

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
Giving a statement without an attorney almost always hurts your case
Insurance companies know this – that’s why they push so hard

How Attorney911 counters:
Once you hire us, we become your voice. 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.

“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.” – Lupe Peña

Tactic #2: Quick Settlement Offer

What they do:
Within days or weeks, insurance companies offer 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

Their artificial urgency:

“This offer expires in 48 hours”
“I can only get approval for this amount right now”
“Take it or leave it”
“This is our final offer” (it’s not)

The trap:
You don’t know the extent of your injuries yet:

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 the release, can’t reopen claim
You pay $100,000 out of pocket	Insurance pays nothing more

Releases are permanent and final.

How Attorney911 counters:
We never settle before you’ve reached Maximum Medical Improvement (MMI) – the point where you’ve recovered as much as you’re going to. This could be 6 months, 12 months, or 24+ months depending on your injuries. We know their offers are always lowball – Lupe calculated these offers for years, and he knows they’re typically offering 10-20% of true value.

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

What they call it:
“Independent Medical Examination”

What it really is:
An insurance company-hired doctor whose job is to minimize your injuries.

How they choose IME doctors:

Based on who gives insurance-favorable reports
Doctors who consistently find “no injury” or “pre-existing condition”
Doctors paid $2,000-$5,000 per exam by insurance companies
Repeat business = repeat favorable reports

What happens at the 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 your injuries

Common IME doctor findings:

“Patient has pre-existing degenerative changes” (everyone over 40 has some arthritis)
“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” (calls you a liar)

How Attorney911 counters:

We prepare you extensively before the exam
We send complete medical records to the IME doctor first
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

What they do:
Drag your case out hoping you’ll get desperate:

“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

You have:

Mounting bills
Zero income
Creditors threatening
Need money NOW

Financial desperation makes you accept less:

Month 1: You’d reject a $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 Attorney911 counters:

We file lawsuits to force deadlines
We set depositions to make them produce witnesses
We prepare for trial to show we’re serious
Lupe understands delay tactics because he used them – he knows when to push

Tactic #5: Surveillance and Social Media Monitoring

What they do:

Hire private investigators to video you
Monitor ALL your social media platforms
Use facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Archive your entire social media history

What they monitor:

Facebook: Posts, photos, check-ins, comments
Instagram: Stories, reels, posts, geotags
TikTok: Videos showing activity levels
LinkedIn: Employment status changes
Twitter/X: Tweets, replies
YouTube: Videos posted
Snapchat: Saved stories

Advanced techniques:

Facial recognition to find photos you’re tagged in
Geotagging data to track your movements
Fake profiles to send friend requests
Subpoenas to obtain “private” content

Examples we’ve defended:

Example	What Happened	Insurance Claimed	Reality
Old Gym Photo	Photo from 3 years ago	Presented as recent, contradicts injury	We proved metadata was pre-accident
Restaurant Check-in	Facebook check-in	“Partying and having fun”	Sitting quietly having dinner
Friend’s Comment	“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 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 the accident, injuries, or activities
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

Tactic #6: Comparative Fault Arguments

What they do:
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 are reduced by your percentage

Even small fault percentages cost thousands:

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

How Attorney911 counters:

Aggressive liability investigation
Accident reconstruction proving the 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

Colossus Software System

How insurance companies actually value your claim:

Lupe knows this system from the inside – he used it for years.

How Colossus works:

Adjuster inputs injury codes, treatment types, medical costs
Injuries are coded using standardized medical terms
Software applies algorithms to determine “value”
System provides recommended settlement range
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 treatment
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

Reserve Setting Psychology

What reserves are:

Money insurance company sets aside for your claim
Based on worst-case scenario (their estimate of trial verdict)
Adjuster usually cannot settle for more than reserve without approval

How we increase reserves:

Hiring experts (shows we’re investing in the case)
Taking depositions (creates litigation expense)
Filing lawsuit (forces trial evaluation)
Preparing for trial (shows we won’t back down)

Lupe understands reserve psychology and settlement authority limits – this is a game-changing advantage.

Types of 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
Drunk driving cases often qualify
Cap: Greater of $200,000 OR (2x economic + 1x non-economic max $750,000)
Purpose: Punish defendant and deter similar conduct

Settlement Ranges by Injury Type

Soft Tissue Injuries (Whiplash, Sprains, Strains)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room: $2,000-$5,000
Follow-up doctor visits: $1,000-$3,000
Physical therapy (6-12 weeks): $3,000-$7,000
Medications: $300-$1,000
Total Medical: $6,000-$16,000

Lost Wages: $2,000-$10,000 (2-6 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $8,000-$35,000

Settlement Range: $15,000-$60,000
Higher if: Permanent pain, restrictions on activities, chronic condition develops

Broken Bone (Single, Simple Fracture)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and X-rays: $3,000-$6,000
Orthopedic consultation: $500-$1,500
Casting and follow-up: $2,000-$5,000
Physical therapy: $3,000-$8,000
Total Medical: $10,000-$20,000

Lost Wages: $5,000-$15,000 (4-8 weeks missed work)
Pain & Suffering: $20,000-$60,000

Settlement Range: $35,000-$95,000

Broken Bone (Requiring Surgery – ORIF)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room: $5,000-$10,000
Surgery (Open Reduction Internal Fixation): $25,000-$50,000
Hospital stay (2-3 days): $6,000-$15,000
Follow-up care: $3,000-$8,000
Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
Total Medical: $47,000-$98,000

Lost Wages: $10,000-$30,000 (3-6 months)
Pain & Suffering: $75,000-$200,000

Settlement Range: $132,000-$328,000

Herniated Disc (Conservative Treatment)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and initial treatment: $3,000-$6,000
MRI: $2,000-$4,000
Physician visits and pain management: $5,000-$12,000
Physical therapy (3-6 months): $8,000-$15,000
Epidural steroid injections (series of 3): $3,000-$6,000
Medications: $1,000-$3,000
Total Medical: $22,000-$46,000

Lost Wages: $8,000-$25,000
Pain & Suffering: $40,000-$100,000

Settlement Range: $70,000-$171,000

Herniated Disc (Surgery Required)

Medical Treatment:

Initial treatment and diagnostics: $8,000-$15,000
Failed conservative treatment: $10,000-$20,000
Spinal surgery (microdiscectomy or fusion): $50,000-$100,000
Hospital stay: $8,000-$20,000
Post-surgical care and follow-up: $5,000-$15,000
Physical therapy (6-12 months): $10,000-$20,000
Pain management: $5,000-$15,000
Total Past Medical: $96,000-$205,000

Future Medical: $30,000-$100,000 (ongoing pain management, possible revision surgery)
Lost Wages: $20,000-$50,000 (6-12 months recovery)
Lost Earning Capacity: $50,000-$400,000 (if can’t return to physical job)
Pain & Suffering: $150,000-$450,000

Settlement Range: $346,000-$1,205,000

Traumatic Brain Injury (Moderate to Severe)

Medical Treatment:

Emergency room and trauma care: $10,000-$30,000
Hospital/ICU stay (1-4 weeks): $50,000-$200,000
Neurosurgery if required: $75,000-$200,000
Acute rehabilitation facility: $30,000-$100,000
Neurologist follow-up care: $10,000-$30,000
Neuropsychological testing: $3,000-$8,000
Cognitive therapy: $15,000-$50,000
Medications: $5,000-$20,000
Total Past Medical: $198,000-$638,000

Future Medical (Life Care Plan): $300,000-$3,000,000+ depending on severity
Lost Wages: $50,000-$200,000
Lost Earning Capacity: $500,000-$3,000,000+
Pain & Suffering: $500,000-$3,000,000+

Settlement Range: $1,548,000-$9,838,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

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

Spinal Cord Injury / Paralysis

Lifetime Care Costs by Level:

Injury Level	First Year	Each Year After	Lifetime Total
High Tetraplegia (C1-C4)	$1,200,000-$1,500,000	$200,000-$250,000	$6,000,000-$13,000,000+
Low Tetraplegia (C5-C8)	$850,000-$1,100,000	$75,000-$100,000	$3,700,000-$6,100,000+
Paraplegia (T1-L5)	$500,000-$750,000	$70,000-$90,000	$2,500,000-$5,250,000+

Settlement Range: $4,770,000-$25,880,000

Amputation

Medical Treatment:

Emergency care and surgery: $80,000-$200,000
Hospital stay: $50,000-$150,000
Rehabilitation: $30,000-$100,000
Initial prosthetic fitting: $10,000-$30,000
Total Past Medical: $170,000-$480,000

Future Medical (Lifetime Prosthetics):

Basic prosthetic leg: $5,000-$15,000 every 3-5 years
Advanced computerized prosthetic: $50,000-$100,000 every 3-5 years
Over lifetime (30-50 years): $500,000-$2,000,000

Settlement Range: $1,945,000-$8,630,000

Attorney911 Documented 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.”

Wrongful Death (Working Age Adult)

Economic Damages:

Funeral and burial: $10,000-$20,000
Medical expenses before death: $50,000-$500,000
Lost financial support to family (present value): $1,000,000-$4,000,000

Non-Economic Damages:

Loss of companionship, society, love: $500,000-$3,000,000
Loss of advice and counsel: $100,000-$500,000
Mental anguish (family members): $250,000-$1,500,000

Settlement Range: $1,910,000-$9,520,000

Attorney911 Documented Result:

“At Attorney911, our personal injury attorneys have helped numerous injured individuals and families facing trucking-related wrongful death cases recover millions of dollars in compensation.”

Why Choose Attorney911 for Your Bowie 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 for years
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 Bowie 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 You Can Trust

What our clients say:

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

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

“Ralph reached out personally.” – Dame Haskett

“Consistent communication and not one time did I call and not get a clear answer.” – Dame Haskett

You work directly with Ralph or Lupe, not a case manager assembly line.

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

“Leonor is the best!!! She was able to assist me with my case within 6 months.” – Tymesha G.

“I got a call to come pick up this handsome check.” – Donald W.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bowie County Car Accidents

Immediate After Accident

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

If you’ve been in an accident in Bowie 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 Bowie County, you can obtain the police report from the responding agency (Texarkana Police Department or Bowie County Sheriff’s Office) 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. 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. The multiplier depends on: injury severity, permanency, impact on life, clear liability. Example: $100,000 medical × 4 multiplier = $400,000 pain & 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 often argue “parking lot accidents are always 50/50 fault” (this is a 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. There are 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. The 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.

Why Bowie County Accident Victims Trust Attorney911

Bowie County presents unique challenges for accident victims. Our local knowledge combined with statewide experience makes us the ideal choice:

Local court familiarity: We understand how Bowie County courts handle personal injury cases
Highway expertise: We know the dangers of I-30 and local roads
Rural road experience: We understand the unique hazards of county roads
Insurance company knowledge: We know how Texas adjusters handle Bowie County claims
Community connection: We understand the needs of Bowie County residents

“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.” – Glenda W.

“I was rear-ended and the team got right to work…I also got a very nice settlement.” – MONGO S.

“Leonor got me into the doctor the same day…it only took 6 months amazing.” – Chavodrian M.

Contact Attorney911 Today

If you’ve been injured in a motor vehicle accident in Bowie County, don’t wait. Evidence disappears daily, and the insurance company is already building their case against you.

Call our legal emergency line now: 1-888-ATTY-911 (1-888-288-9911)

Free consultation – No obligation
No fee unless we win – You pay nothing upfront
Hablamos Español – Lupe Peña and our team are ready to help Spanish-speaking clients

The Manginello Law Firm, PLLC
Attorney911
Serving Bowie County and all of Texas
Principal Office: Houston, Texas

Don’t let the insurance company take advantage of you. Call Attorney911 now for the legal emergency response you deserve.